South African mountaineer, philanthropist, and Brand SA ambassador Angela Yeung stood atop the world — the summit of Mount Everest from the formidable North Side. Yet, this historic achievement was never just about the mountain. It was the culmination of a mission to empower survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) through her non-profit, the Impilo Collection Foundation, and its EmpowerHer Programme.
Angela’s symbolic target was to collect 8,849 bras — one for every metre of Everest — to restore dignity and show solidarity with GBV survivors. “Climbing Everest is a monumental challenge, but it pales in comparison to the daily battles faced by survivors,” said Yeung. “Each bra we collect is a message: You are seen, valued, and deserving of dignity.”
In South Africa, GBV remains a national crisis, with a woman murdered every four hours and over 12,000 rape cases reported in just three months of 2024. Angela’s campaign has ignited awareness and mobilised communities nationwide, with bras destined for shelters and support centres across the country.
Angela’s ascent was not only an act of physical endurance but a living tribute to resilience and justice. Carrying the logos of supporting global brands — Cathay Pacific, GoPro, La Prairie, Zara Wellness, and the South African flag — Angela dedicated her climb to every South African fighting their own mountain. “This is not just my climb; it’s every single South African’s climb. Together, we can transform Everest into a beacon of hope.”
From the Summit to Service: Supporting Himalayan Children
After her successful descent, Angela and her Sherpa team journeyed deep into the Himalayas to extend their impact even further. They delivered over 100 kilograms of donated clothing, shoes, stationery and books to the Rolwaling Sangag Choling Monastery School and the Mountain Children Home — remote educational centres where tradition and hardship converge.
“This part of the mission means everything,” Angela reflected. “Climbing Everest is a symbol of resilience, but giving back — especially to children in these regions — is the real summit.”
These schools face immense challenges. While monastic institutions preserve spiritual depth, they often lack access to modern academic tools. Angela’s foundation aims to bridge that gap, encouraging a future where children grow up equipped not only for economic success, but also with the values of compassion and integrity.
This dual-action expedition — advocating for GBV survivors and uplifting mountain children — reflects the Impilo Collection Foundation’s broader mission to uplift 1 million lives by 2035 through the pillars of EmpowerHer, EmpowerHim, and EmpowerThem.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
- Donate Bras: New or gently used bras can be dropped off at collection points listed on www.impilofoundation.org
- Sponsor: Fund a kilometre of the climb or run a corporate drive
- Volunteer: Join as a Social Warrior for fundraising and events
- Follow & Share: Stay updated via Instagram @Impilo_foundation
