Ross Skene, business development and marketing manager at Aberdeen-based NEREC Ltd, is swapping Scotland's Munros for something considerably higher, Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak, which he'll climb in August 2026 to raise funds for Student Minds.
At 5,895 metres, Kilimanjaro presents a formidable challenge, but for Ross, it's about more than just reaching the summit.
"Climbing Kilimanjaro has been on my bucket list for years," Ross explained. "But I wanted to make it mean something beyond a personal achievement. Student Minds does brilliant work supporting students through mental health challenges during some of the most important years of their lives. Combining this climb with fundraising for them felt like the perfect way to push myself whilst making a real difference."
Ross has set a fundraising target of £3,380 and will be organising events and training challenges throughout the coming year as he prepares for the expedition.
His efforts have full backing from NEREC, a company with strong roots in community support. The business has previously donated exterior cleaning services to local charities, including AberNecessities, and SensationALL, and actively supports the next generation through its involvement with Developing the Young Workforce (DYW).
"We're incredibly proud of Ross for taking this on," said Andrew Bruce, founder and managing director of NEREC. "Supporting our team and our community is fundamental to who we are as a business. Ross's climb embodies the resilience and commitment to making a positive impact that we value at NEREC."
Those wishing to support Ross's fundraising journey for Student Minds can donate via his JustGiving page.
About Student Minds
Student Minds is the UK's leading student mental health charity, empowering students and members of the university community to look after their own mental health, support others, and create change.