Member Article

Manchester Social Media Agency CEO To Tackle Kilimanjaro Trek

Manchester ceo, Rob Illidge, is gearing up to tackle the tallest mountain on the African continent and the highest free-standing mountain in the world, Kilimanjaro.

Rob of leading global social media agency Social Republic is raising money for The Mara Rianda Charitable Trust, which provides support to schools and local communities in Kenya, by climbing the mountain between September 25th-October 2nd.

He will be taking on what is known as ‘The Alternative Lemosho Route’, one of the longest routes on the mountain, which allows for better acclimatisation.

The Alternative Lemosho Route provides great views, adventure, the opportunity to see local wildlife, and the chance to spend virtually every day of the climb in a completely different scenery to the day before.

This challenge follows on from Rob’s virtual Kilimanjaro climb in June, which helped to raise money for the National Health Service (NHS), after his original trek was postponed due to the global pandemic.

Said Rob: “Having visited the Mara Rianda Primary School in Kenya in 2018 it was clear how just a small amount can make such a difference, and I felt like I had to do something.

“It costs only £90 to put a child through school for one year. In addition to this, girls miss out on 25% due the lack of sanitary protection.

“These shocking figures inspired me to do more and help where I can.

“Our overall target is £5,000 and with that money, we can give an education to 55 children for one year. We have already raised almost £2000, so we’re nearly there.

“I have previously taken on running challenges and have been in the boxing ring on numerous occasions to fundraise, but this will be my biggest challenge to date. It will also be an honour for me to emulate my father, who summited Kilimanjaro at 63 years old.

“It’s certainly going to be a very gruelling trek, walking around 128,263 steps in total with a height equivalent of 5,895m or 19,341ft.

“We’re calling for any support you can provide - whether that’s a simple post of encouragement on social media, or a small donation.”

Social Republic has established itself as a leading global agency, having developed a client base in the United Kingdom, Australia and the United States. This year sees the agency celebrates five successful years in operation.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Davina Consoli .