Eight cadets from Cambridgeshire Army Cadet Force (ACF) had an unforgettable climb on an expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania this summer.
On 26 August 2025, after nine days of trekking through rainforest, alpine desert, and icy summit zones, the cadets and the nine cadet force adult volunteers accompanying them stood proudly at the peak of Africa’s tallest mountain, having completed one of the world’s most iconic climbs.
This extraordinary achievement was made possible through months of dedicated fundraising, generous support from local businesses, and crucial grants from ACCT UK—the official Army Cadets charity—and the Ulysses Trust, which champions adventurous activities for the UK’s Reserve Forces and cadets.
The expedition also relied on the tireless efforts of adult instructors to ensure a successful and above all safe expedition, and the backing of the wider community.
Before the climb, the group spent time at a Tanzanian children’s centre, donating toys, books, and stationery collected from families back home. The experience left a lasting impression, with many cadets describing it as life-changing. They returned not only with memories of Kilimanjaro to last them a lifetime, but also newfound confidence, deeper friendships and new respect for cultures beyond their own.
Cdt Cpl Oliver Adams called the trip “unforgettable”, while Cdt Cpl Tristan Enderle described the final ascent in freezing winds as: “the hardest thing I have yet faced”.
Cdt Sgt Alexis Dowling spoke of discovering inner strength, and Cdt Cpl Sophia Xerri reflected on the joy of shared achievement and lasting bonds. For Cdt Cpl Jake Graham, it was the warmth and resilience of the local community that made the deepest impact.
Col Lesley Deacon, Cambridgeshire ACF‘s commandant, said: “Thank you to everyone who made this possible — the cadets, parents, CFAVs, the porters, hotel staff and Tanzanian military who escorted us. Special thanks go to our Staff Officer Major Colin Wells. This trip was his idea, and could never have happened without his incredible determination, hard work and planning.”
If you’re a cadet dreaming of your own adventure, ask your unit to explore funding opportunities through the Ulysses Trust. With the right support, the world is yours to discover.
