Climbing the Seven Summits for Forgotten Children
Hi, my name is Célina.
For my entire childhood, I lived in youth care because of an abusive father. Growing up, I lived in constant fear and danger.
During my years in youth care, I met many children who were victims of sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect. I listened to their stories and noticed something that stayed with me: once they entered the system, many were no longer seen as victims. Instead, they were often labelled as “problems” or “troubled children.”
Many of them reported the abuse they suffered. Some were removed from their homes, yet still ended up in environments where they did not always feel safe. Their voices were often ignored, and their pain was forgotten.
At the age of 16, I decided that I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to give these children a voice and raise awareness about the reality many victims face.
At 17, I set myself an ambitious goal: to complete the Seven Summits Challenge, climbing the highest mountain on every continent to shine a spotlight on child abuse and the children whose stories are too often overlooked.
In April, I will climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. In 2027, I will climb Mount Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe. These climbs are the first steps in a much bigger mission.
My ultimate goal is to become the youngest Belgian ever to climb Mount Everest and, through this journey, bring international attention to the struggles of abused and neglected children.
Unfortunately, mountaineering is expensive. Costs include guides, permits, equipment, training, travel, and flights. That is why I am asking for your support.
Every donation, no matter how small, helps me get one step closer to the summit and one step closer to giving a voice to children who deserve to be heard.
Together, we can show the world that these victims are not forgotten.
Thank you for believing in this mission.