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MyEO Hiking: Arrive Ready for Adventure, Leave with Something Far Deeper

January 9, 2026

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A group of EO members journeyed together to Everest Base Camp, discovering how shared challenges, connection, and perspective fueled their growth along the way. They learned that every step matters—especially when entrepreneurs push their limits and achieve goals together.

Twelve members of EO stand at Everest Base Camp
Photo courtesy MyEO Adventure Hikers.

Have you ever had a moment so special you wondered if you’d ever feel that way again?

Now that I’m home from Nepal, after finally reaching Everest Base Camp, a goal I first set 12 years ago — that’s exactly how I feel.

But here’s the truth: It wasn’t just standing at Base Camp that made it so special. It was everything in between. The preparation, the altitude, the cold (-20°C mornings) and every step along those steep, uneven paths that tested not only our bodies but our minds.

After two previous attempts, one paused by pregnancy in 2012, another cancelled by COVID in 2020, this was the trip that almost didn’t happen. Maybe that’s why it was so transformative. I arrived ready for adventure, but I left with something far deeper.

The Power of MyEO Adventure Hikers

What made this journey truly unforgettable was the people I shared it with, a group of EO members brought together through MyEO Adventure Hikers. We came from different locations, industries and levels of fitness, but we all had one thing in common: A desire to push our limits and grow.

Every day brought new challenges and new lessons. We laughed, supported one another, and shared stories that reminded us how universal our struggles and dreams are. Somewhere between the prayer flags, the yak trains and the icy air, we discovered not just the Himalayas, but ourselves.

When I asked members from EO Queensland what they learned along the way, their answers moved me deeply:

  • John Knight: “This trip gave me space to reflect and get clarity on my life. I realized I can set hard challenges and achieve them, that changes how I’ll face the future.”
  • Will Swayne: “Climbing Kala Patthar pushed me beyond my limits. I learned that even when you’re going through hell, you can keep going.”
  • Rob Cheesman: “Being surrounded by something so vast and awe-inspiring put everything in perspective. And yes that helicopter ride home was unforgettable!”
  • Gerard Blokdijk: “I rediscovered joy in simplicity. Life gets complicated, but this reminded me to slow down and accept what’s already here.”
  • Olivia James: “The quality of the conversations surprised me. I left with new friends and a deeper appreciation for the simple luxuries we take for granted, clean water, a warm bed.”
  • Leigh Anderson: “I didn’t train for this trip and paid for it with altitude sickness. It taught me to stop being complacent, in hiking and in life.”

The Magic of Simplicity

With no phone signal and only a yak-poo fire to keep us warm, we lived simply. We shared ginger, lemon, and honey teas at the end of long climbs, watched the sunrise spill gold over snow-capped peaks and relearned what it means to be present.

The people of Nepal, with so little by material measure, radiated joy and generosity. Their humility and warmth reminded me that simplicity grounds us and connection gives us meaning.

This trek wasn’t just about conquering a mountain, it was about rediscovering perspective, presence, and purpose.

To anyone holding onto a dream that keeps getting delayed, whether it’s personal or professional, don’t give up. The timing may not be yours to control, but when it finally happens, it will be worth every step.

Twelve EO members stand next to a sign welcoming them to EO Nepal.
EO Nepal celebrated the members of MyEO Adventure Hikers with a special event called “Bridging Peaks and Reefs” after their climb to Everest Base Camp and return to Kathmandu. Photo courtesy MyEO Adventure Hikers.

Join the Next Adventure

The MyEO Adventure Hikers take on a new challenge every year, with a goal of blending adventure, personal growth, and connection with EO members from around the world.

As Leigh Anderson shared, “Over the past year, EO has taken me further than I ever imagined, literally and figuratively. I’ve travelled to four countries, sharing adventures and insights with people who inspire me daily. Trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp was a reminder that in life and business, you don’t climb to stay comfortable. You climb to grow.”

If you’re ready to stretch beyond your limits, build lifelong friendships and experience transformation in motion, join MyEO Adventure Hikers and come with us on the next trek!

Contributed by Belinda Vesey-Brown, an EO Queensland member who is the founder of Brio Group, Meet Aandi, and Brandonian.