Brendan Connies-Laing, director of Wales-based operator Easystore Self Storage Ltd., recently climbed Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, to raise awareness about Techniquest, the charity the company is supporting this year. The organization promotes science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to students at disadvantaged schools in South Wales.

Connies-Laing was joined by Clare James, the fundraising manager for Techniquest. The two scaled more than 19,000 feet to the summit of the dormant volcano.

“The climb was incredibly difficult, stretching over six days in tough conditions. There is no doubt that it was worth it though, as the site is truly a marvel of nature,” Connies-Laing said. Rather than raise funds to support the cost of the trip, the duo paid for it themselves so the focus of the climb would be raising awareness for Techniquest’s STEM programs. “The center does fantastic work to bring these crucial academic subjects to schools across South Wales. We hope that us making the 19,000-foot climb to one of the world’s important scientific sites will help raise awareness of the importance of STEM, and highlight the outreach projects of Techniquest.”

Mount Kilimanjaro has acted as a barometer of climate change for scientists for centuries, according to the source. Current studies suggest the famed snows of Kilimanjaro will likely disappear by 2033 as its glaciers shrink and ice fields disappear.

Easystore announced its support of Techniquest in February, noting its shared ethos of promoting STEM. Techniquest operates the Science Discovery Centre in Cardiff Bay, Wales. The center features 120 interactive exhibits as well as a science theatre, planetarium and lab. The company also provides a range of services to schools and teachers to promote learning, according to its website.

“As automation and low-skill jobs begin to disappear, it will be even more important to ensure the next generation is equipped with the tools to tackle the growing economic and environmental challenges we face. Getting children interested in these subjects is the first step in that crucial journey,” said Lesley Kirkpatrick, CEO of Techniquest. “We rely upon Welsh business partners to increase awareness of our work, and we’re absolutely thrilled with Easystore’s continued support. We are truly privileged to be their charity of the year. I’d like to offer huge congratulations to Brendan and Clare for their fantastic achievement in managing to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro.”

Founded in 2002, Easystore operates two facilities in Bridgend and Cardiff, Wales.

Sources: