Being one of the first female outdoor professionals in the region is a tough task, but for Hanady Alhashmi, it all pays off. A climber by heart, this lively Emirati is out to prove that women too, can have their fair share of adventure in the UAE and Oman.
Hello! How long have you been involved with the outdoors?
Hi! I have loved the outdoors since I was a child, especially camping and the beach. But have been formally involved with outdoor activities for about two years now.
What sort of outdoor activities are you involved in?
I am involved in a large range of activities, from mountaineering to tour guiding. However, my main passion is with hiking and trekking, I have also recently started to enjoy mountain biking and rock climbing. This spirit for adventure, when did it all begin?
It officially all began about two years ago when I went village trekking in Oman. Ever since I have wanted to explore new places and try new things like off-roading, canyoning in Snake Gorge in Oman and summiting mountains. I definitely have a thirst for adventure now.
Being one of the first female outdoor professional in the region, what would be your first task?
My first task as one of the first female outdoor professionals would be to encourage others and especially other women to come outdoors and try out new adventures, especially in the UAE and Oman where it is very close to them. Many people aren’t aware of what great activities are available in the region. I would like to provide support and information about the outdoors in this area.
Why do you believe that more women need to get involved in outdoor adventure?
I believe that the outdoors can teach you many things, it can help develop certain real-world skills like organisation, safety and risk assessment, including soft skills like leadership, group management, social interactions, responsibility, as well as increase confidence levels. It definitely helps to build friendships with likeminded people as well. Currently the adventure industry here has more men involved than women and I would love to see the numbers even out.
What are some of the difficulties that they face?
Some women, for cultural or even personal reasons, would prefer to have capable female instructors and guides that they can rely on and who have sufficient training and knowledge on the outdoors. This is a challenge at the moment, as instructors here are male; I hope to help open that door to women.
We read that you summited mountains, which was your favourite?
Summiting mountains is always difficult and long, people say it is about the journey and not about the destination. I would say my favourite has to be Mt Kilimanjaro, as it was my first one, and so it holds a special place in my heart.
Any plans on what to tackle next?
I am planning on taking up some mountaineering classes and I plan to tackle Mt Elbrus and Mont Blanc in 2016. Inshallah!
Lastly, how would you describe your ideal adventure?
My ideal adventure would be anywhere with a great group of friends where everyone has fun and all goes well. Adventure doesn’t just have to be about big trips, sometimes a weekend of trekking local areas with friends is the ideal, and it’s good to have variety.
Nationality: Emirati
Occupation: Marketing Specialist & Outdoor Adventure Instructor at Absolute Adventure
