Ines Bojanić: 'You stand above the clouds and for a moment it seems that your problems are much smaller'

Marjana Ivić, a 48-year-old mother of three from Croatia, reached the summit of Kang Yatse II, one of the highest peaks in the Himalayas, at midnight local time. The ascent, which took place over several days, saw her climb to an altitude of 6,250 meters above sea level. Her journey was marked by physical endurance and mental resilience, with each step requiring immense effort against the thin air and harsh conditions of the mountain. The climb began with a departure from New Delhi, India, where Ivić and a group of 19 climbers, mostly from Serbia and one other Croatian participant, gathered before heading north toward the Ladakh region in northern India. This area, known for its rugged terrain and high-altitude environment, serves as a common base for expeditions targeting Kang Yatse II. Upon arrival in Leh, located at 3,500 meters above sea level, the group spent two days acclimatizing to the reduced oxygen levels and adjusting to the extreme cold and dry climate. During this time, Ivić described the stark contrast between the bustling chaos of New Delhi and the serene, almost meditative atmosphere of Leh. While Delhi's streets were filled with noise, color, and the scent of spices, Leh offered a landscape dominated by rocky hills, clear blue skies, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. The transition from urban life to the remote wilderness of the Himalayas was both physically and mentally demanding, yet Ivić approached it with determination. The actual ascent to Kang Yatse II involved navigating treacherous paths covered in ice and loose rock. Each movement required precision and caution, as even minor missteps could lead to serious injury or worse. Ivić recounted how she relied on the support of her climbing partners, emphasizing the importance of teamwork during moments of fatigue and uncertainty. “If one person falls, another holds,” she said, echoing the sentiment that defined their collective effort. Reaching the summit brought a mix of emotions for Ivić. After hours of struggle and exhaustion, she described feeling a profound sense of accomplishment and freedom. The view from the top, she said, was unlike anything she had ever experienced. Standing above the clouds, she felt small in comparison to the vastness of nature, yet empowered by the realization that she had overcome her fears and limitations. Ivić’s decision to pursue mountaineering came after a period of personal hardship. Having faced difficult circumstances while raising her children alone, she found solace in walking and hiking. What started as a simple hobby gradually evolved into a more ambitious pursuit, leading her to take on some of the world’s most challenging climbs. Her work in a multinational company based in Munich, dealing with patents and software, allowed her to balance professional responsibilities with her passion for adventure. Her achievement has drawn attention not only within Croatia but also among international climbing communities. Many who know her are surprised by the extent of her accomplishments, given her otherwise unassuming demeanor and routine office job. For Ivić, however, the climb was more than just a personal milestone, it was a testament to human perseverance and the ability to transform adversity into strength. As she reflects on her experience, Ivić emphasizes the unique challenges posed by high-altitude environments. The thin air, unpredictable weather, and physical strain all contribute to making such climbs extremely risky. Despite these obstacles, she remains committed to pushing her limits and exploring new frontiers. Her story continues to inspire others, particularly women, to challenge themselves and embrace the unknown.