Our Team
LAKPA RITA SHERPA (Founder/President)
Lakpa Rita Sherpa is highly respected and accomplished mountaineer from Nepal, widely recognized for his pioneering achievements in high-altitude guiding. Born in the Thami Khumbu region, he became one of the first Sherpas to gain international recognition for his expertise in mountaineering and guiding on the world’s highest peaks.
With over 17 successful summits of Mount Everest, Lakpa Rita has also conquered the Seven Summits, climbing the highest mountains on each continent. His extensive experience and leadership have made him a key figure in the mountaineering industry, where he has played a crucial role in guiding climbers safely to the summit of Everest and beyond.
Beyond his climbing achievements, Lakpa Rita has been a strong advocate for Sherpa climbers, emphasizing their contributions to mountaineering while promoting safety and ethical guiding practices. Lakpa Rita Sherpa is known for his selflessness, humility, and unwavering dedication to helping others. He has saved numerous lives on the mountains, often risking his own safety to assist climbers in distress. His leadership and expertise have made him one of the most respected figures in the mountaineering world, earning him widespread recognition and admiration.
Today, Lakpa Rita continues to inspire the next generation of climbers, sharing his knowledge and experience while advocating for ethical and sustainable mountaineering practices. His impact extends far beyond the mountains—he is a symbol of resilience, courage, and the enduring spirit of the Sherpa people.
Kami Rita Sherpa: The Everest Man
Kami Rita Sherpa is a world-renowned Nepali mountaineer, celebrated for his record-breaking ascents of Mount Everest. Born in Thame, Solukhumbu, Nepal, in 1970, he was raised in a family of climbers and began his mountaineering journey as a high-altitude porter. His father was among the first professional Sherpa guides, and Kami Rita followed in his footsteps, dedicating his life to the mountains.
As of May 2024, he has summited Mount Everest 30 times, making him the undisputed record holder for the most ascents. His achievements extend beyond Everest, with successful climbs of other peaks like K2, Lhotse, Cho oyu,and Manaslu. With over three decades of experience, he has played a vital role in leading and assisting international climbers on their expeditions.
Kami Rita's dedication showcases the resilience, strength, and expertise of the Sherpa community. He continues to inspire young climbers while advocating for better recognition and compensation for Sherpa guides, whose efforts make Himalayan expeditions possible. "In the aftermath of the devastating glacial lake outburst flood that struck his hometown of Thame on August 16th, Kami played a pivotal role in the relief efforts. Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, he quickly mobilized support and successfully raised $30,000 in immediate relief funds. With a deep commitment to his community, he personally ensured that the funds were directly distributed to those affected, providing crucial aid to families who had lost their homes and livelihoods."
KAMI RITA SHERPA (Board of director )
Mingma Yanzee Sherpa, daughter of esteemed mountaineer Lakpa Rita Sherpa, was born in Nepal and immigrated to the United States in 2004. Growing up in a family with deep roots in Himalayan mountaineering, she was exposed to the world of high-altitude adventure from an early age. After completing her high school education at Shorewood High School, she pursued higher education at the University of Washington, where she earned a degree in Nursing.
Beyond her professional career in healthcare, Mingma is an avid outdoor enthusiast with a passion for adventure and physical fitness. She enjoys hiking, biking, running, snowboarding, and mountain climbing—activities that reflect her love for nature and the mountains. Following in her father’s footsteps, she has successfully summited several iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest, including Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and Mount Hood. These climbs, undertaken alongside her father, not only strengthened her mountaineering skills but also deepened her connection to her family’s mountaineering legacy.
In addition to her adventurous pursuits, Mingma is a devoted wife and a loving mother to her daughter. She continues to balance her professional, family, and outdoor passions, inspiring those around her with her dedication, resilience, and adventurous spirit.
MINGMA YANGZEE PHAN (Treasurer)
Sonam Sherpa:
Sonam Sherpa was born in the mountainous regions of Nepal, a land rich in culture and tradition. At a young age, he immigrated to the United States, settling in Seattle, Washington, where he pursued his education with determination. After completing high school, he earned a college degree, equipping himself with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in both his adopted home and his homeland.
Despite building a life in the U.S., Sonam’s deep connection to Nepal has remained a driving force in his life. Passionate about preserving Sherpa culture and traditions, he dedicates himself to supporting those in need, particularly in remote mountain communities. His commitment to humanitarian efforts extends beyond words, as he actively engages in initiatives to rebuild and sustain villages affected by natural disasters, economic hardships, and social challenges.
Beyond his philanthropic work, Sonam is an avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast. He finds joy in snowboarding, exploring new destinations, and embracing the adventure that life has to offer. His journey is a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and a steadfast dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
Sonam Sherpa (Board of Director )