'Afghan women are not weak': Melbourne woman climbs Everest (opens original article in a new tab)

Melbourne woman River Ahmad climbed Mount Everest to inspire Afghan women and highlight their struggles, overcoming personal and financial challenges.

• Melbourne woman River Ahmad climbed Mount Everest in May 2026 as an Afghan refugee
• She aimed to inspire Afghan women and raise awareness of their struggles under Taliban rule
• Ahmad trained extensively and raised funds for the climb, facing physical and financial challenges