New Delhi, December 31, 2024: Kaamya Karthikeyan, a 17-year-old student from Navy Children School in Mumbai, has made history by becoming the youngest female ever to scale the highest peaks on all seven continents. On December 24, 2024, she completed the prestigious Seven Summits Challenge by successfully summiting Mount Vinson in Antarctica alongside her father, Commander S Karthikeyan, a veteran mountaineer and her mentor.
The Indian Navy officially confirmed the feat, stating – Ms Kaamya Karthikeyan, class XII student at @IN_NCSMumbai, scripts history by becoming the youngest female in the world to scale seven highest peaks across seven continents – Africa (Mt. Kilimanjaro), Europe (Mt. Elbrus), Australia (Mt. Kosciuszko), South America (Mt. Aconcagua), North America (Mt. Denali), Asia (Mt. Everest) & culminating with the current climb in Antarctica.
The young Everester reached the summit of Mt Vincent #Antarctica along with her father, Cdr S Karthikeyan, on #24Dec 24 at 1720 hrs Chilean Standard Time to complete the #SevenSummits Challenge.
The #IndianNavy congratulates Ms Kaamya Karthikeyan & her father on accomplishing this momentous milestone.
An Inspirational Journey of Determination
Kaamya’s mountaineering journey began at the age of seven, when she embarked on her first trek in Uttarakhand. By the time she was 10, she had started setting her sights on the Seven Summits, beginning with Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa. Over the years, she systematically conquered:
- Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa)
- Mount Elbrus (Europe)
- Mount Kosciuszko (Australia)
- Mount Aconcagua (South America)
- Mount Denali (North America)
- Mount Everest (Asia)
- Mount Vinson (Antarctica)
At 16, Kaamya made headlines as the youngest Indian and the second youngest girl globally to summit Mount Everest. Each expedition was marked by rigorous physical preparation, mental resilience, and the guidance of her father, who accompanied her on key climbs.
A Shared Achievement with Her Father
Commander S Karthikeyan, a seasoned mountaineer, played a pivotal role in Kaamya’s journey, serving as both a mentor and a climbing partner. Reflecting on her achievement, he stated: “Kaamya’s journey represents not just personal accomplishment but also the values of discipline, strategic preparation, and perseverance.”
National and Global Recognition
Kaamya’s record-breaking accomplishment has drawn widespread praise. The Indian Navy, mountaineering organizations, and adventure sports communities have celebrated her feat, hailing her as a role model for young adventurers.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Kaamya’s success goes beyond personal milestones, as she continues to inspire youth to pursue their passions and embrace outdoor activities. Her journey symbolizes the power of dreams and determination, breaking barriers and setting new standards in adventure sports.
As the youngest female to complete the Seven Summits, Kaamya Karthikeyan has etched her name in history, proving that age is no barrier to achieving greatness. With her unwavering spirit, she is poised to inspire generations of climbers and dreamers worldwide.
