An inspiring ascent, a powerful mission, and a remarkable achievement that will echo for generations to come.
On the morning of Thursday, 11 July 2025, five extraordinary men representing the Pretoria Boys High School community reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro—Africa’s highest peak—raising an incredible R435,358 for The Legacy Project in the process.
The climbers—Keegan McIntosh, Chris Oldnall, Luke Allan, Wade Grundy, and Jacques Kunz—embarked on the physically and emotionally demanding expedition as part of the PBHS Boys Higher Campaign, a bold new initiative aimed at transforming lives through education.
This wasn’t just a mountain conquered. It was a purpose-driven pilgrimage—a powerful symbol of upliftment, resilience, and the unshakable PBHS spirit.
The Boys Higher Campaign, launched under the banner Climbing Higher. Lifting Others., is far more than a fundraiser. It is a movement—a call to action—for those who believe in creating meaningful change through access to quality education.
From 5–15 July, the team journeyed through varying terrains, dramatic weather shifts, and significant altitude gains. Each day demanded intense physical stamina and mental toughness. One of the most challenging moments came as the team approached their final ascent.
On Wednesday, just a day before the summit push, the team paused for lunch at 4,600 metres above sea level. Despite the thin air and growing fatigue, spirits remained high. They checked in with updates: focused minds, steady energy, and unwavering determination.
That afternoon, they made the climb to the final base camp—Barafu Camp, the staging point for summit night. The team rested briefly before rising in the early hours of Thursday morning to begin the final leg: a steep, freezing ascent guided by sheer resolve.
In the biting cold and thin air, they pushed onward through the early hours, finally reaching Uhuru Peak (5,895m)—the highest point in Africa—just after sunrise. Exhausted, elated, and overwhelmed with emotion, they planted the PBHS flag atop the continent, carrying the hopes and support of their community with them.
This climb wasn’t about personal glory. It was about purpose. Each step taken up Kilimanjaro was one closer to dignity, opportunity, and a better future for children in need.
The funds raised will go directly toward empowering deserving students through The Legacy Project, an initiative by the South African Hall of Fame that provides bursaries, food, medical care, and holistic support to boys of potential who may otherwise never have the opportunity to attend a school like Pretoria Boys High.
Among the climbers were two PBHS teachers and one Form IV student, making the journey a true reflection of the school’s core values: courage, compassion, commitment, and community.
“This is what Pretoria Boys High is all about,” the school shared in a message of congratulations. “These men gave it their all—every step, every breath—for a cause greater than themselves.”
The Journey Doesn’t End Here: The success of the Kilimanjaro climb marks just the beginning of the Boys Higher Campaign. PBHS is now calling on its broader community—parents, Old Boys, and supporters—to continue backing the initiative.
Because every rand matters. Whether it’s R10 or R10,000, each contribution helps bring another boy closer to the future he deserves. Please continue to support this campaign by donating on https://www.givengain.com/event/boys-higher-the-ascent-of-purpose
