Lahkpa Sherpa | 2026 Women of Inspiration presented by Post University

Lhakpa Sherpa is a trailblazer whose courage and determination have taken her to the highest place on Earth—and inspired women around the world to reach for their own summits.

Born in Nepal, Lhakpa became the first Nepali woman to successfully summit Mount Everest in 2000. In 2022, she broke her own world record by reaching the summit for the eleventh time—the most Everest ascents by any woman in history.

But her greatest achievement may be the barriers she has overcome along the way. Denied an education because she was a girl, Lhakpa defied cultural expectations, immigrated to Connecticut, raised her family, and continued pursuing her passion for climbing.

Today, she uses her experience to empower others to overcome obstacles, embrace their strength, and never give up on their dreams.

A pioneer. A survivor. A world-record holder. And an inspiration to women everywhere.