'When I see a summit, I smile, I did it': Emirati teen on scaling peaks and setting records

Emirati teenager Fatima Al Awadhi, 19, is making waves in the world of mountaineering, setting records and pursuing ambitious goals. The petite powerhouse has already scaled several of the world's highest peaks and aims to complete the Seven Summits challenge and the Explorer's Grand Slam before turning 20. She has already achieved this feat, becoming the youngest Arab to summit Mount Vinson in Antarctica and the youngest Emirati to reach the peak of Mount Elbrus in Europe.

Al Awadhi's climb to success began during a difficult period in her high school life when her father was in a coma. She sought a sense of purpose and found it through mountaineering, which helped her channel her energy and overcome adversity. Her journey includes a Kilimanjaro trek, a summit of Mount Elbrus in Europe, and a climb of Mount Vinson in Antarctica.

The UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, has been a source of inspiration and support for Al Awadhi, praising her spirit and representing the UAE. Al Awadhi hopes her achievements will inspire others to strive for greatness and make the most of the opportunities available to them, especially in the UAE. She plans to continue her climbing career, aiming to become the youngest person in the world to complete the Explorer's Grand Slam, and remains determined to push her limits and inspire others.