57hours Announces 2023 Guide Education Fund Scholarship Recipients, Championing Professionalism and Diversity in Outdoor Guiding

57hours, a prominent platform dedicated to connecting adventurers with certified guides, has proudly unveiled the eight recipients of its 2023 Guide Education Fund scholarships. This significant initiative underscores the company’s commitment to advancing professional development and fostering greater inclusivity within the outdoor industry by supporting aspiring and established guides across the disciplines of rock, alpine, and ski guiding as they pursue rigorous certifications through the American Mountain Guide Association (AMGA) and the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA).

The announcement highlights a crucial investment in the future of outdoor leadership, recognizing that the expertise and safety provided by highly trained guides are paramount to responsible recreation. The selected guides, originating from diverse backgrounds and representing various stages of their careers, share a profound passion for guiding. Their individual journeys exemplify dedication to the mountains and a collective desire to share transformative outdoor experiences with others, making them ideal candidates for a program designed to alleviate the substantial financial barriers to professional certification.

The Critical Need for Professional Guiding Certification

Professional mountain guiding is a demanding career requiring extensive training, experience, and adherence to stringent international standards. Organizations like the AMGA, the sole U.S. body accredited by the IFMGA, provide the highest level of certification for guides in rock, alpine, and ski disciplines. Achieving these certifications involves multiple intensive courses and rigorous examinations, often spanning several years. For instance, an AMGA Rock Guide Course alone can cost upwards of $4,000, with subsequent exams and additional courses pushing the total investment into the tens of thousands of dollars for a full IFMGA certification. These costs cover specialized instruction, equipment, travel, and lodging, creating a significant financial hurdle for many talented individuals seeking to elevate their careers.

It was precisely this recognized financial burden that prompted 57hours to establish the Guide Education Fund. The fund aims to mitigate these expenses, enabling guides to focus on their training rather than the prohibitive costs. The overwhelming response to the 2023 scholarship cycle underscored the profound need for such support within the guiding community. 57hours received 55 applications, with total scholarship requests exceeding $100,000. This volume of applications not only demonstrates a vibrant and expanding pool of dedicated guides but also clearly signals that financial assistance from partners like 57hours is actively sought and desperately needed.

The selection process for the eight recipients was rigorous, involving a comprehensive review of personal narratives, career aspirations, and the potential impact a scholarship would have on each applicant’s guiding journey. The depth of passion and commitment displayed by all applicants deeply impressed the selection committee. "To all the guides who applied: Thank you," stated 57hours. "Thank you for trusting us to be a partner in your journey. By simply applying and making your voice heard, we can show a need for this type of support in the guiding community." This sentiment reinforces the idea that the fund serves not just as a financial aid mechanism, but also as a vital advocacy tool, spotlighting systemic challenges within the industry.

Fostering a More Inclusive Outdoors: A Core Mission

Beyond addressing financial barriers, a cornerstone of the 57hours Guide Education Fund is its unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and supporting historically underrepresented communities in the outdoors. Recognizing the significant disparities that persist, half of the Guide Education Funds are specifically allocated to women, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), and LGBTQA+ guides.

Statistics reveal the stark reality of underrepresentation in elite guiding circles. Of the approximately 170 certified IFMGA Mountain Guides in the U.S., a mere 16 are women, with only one woman of color, Norie Kizaki, holding this distinction. This imbalance highlights a broader issue of accessibility and representation that the fund actively seeks to address. The philosophy underpinning this focus is encapsulated in the powerful statement: "We believe it’s hard to be what you can’t see. When women see other women guiding, they can see themselves as guides. When people of color see guides of color, they might take the first step toward exploring outdoor spaces. Or, when an LGBTQA+ climber takes a course led by a fellow LGBTQA+ Rock Guide, they will know that they are welcome in this space." This principle of visible representation is critical for inspiring new generations of diverse outdoor enthusiasts and leaders.

The call for applications resonated strongly within these communities. Of the 55 applications received, 45% were from women, 15% from BIPOC guides, and 20% from the LGBTQA+ community. These figures demonstrate a significant desire among these groups to pursue professional guiding careers and contribute to a more inclusive outdoor landscape. The fund’s impact extends beyond individual financial aid; it acts as a catalyst for cultural change, paving the way for a more equitable and representative guiding profession. This aligns with broader industry trends and calls to action from organizations like the Outdoor Industry Association and various advocacy groups working to dismantle barriers and promote equitable access to outdoor spaces and leadership roles.

Introducing the 2023 Scholarship Cohort: Diverse Paths, Shared Passion

The eight individuals selected for the 2023 Guide Education Fund scholarships embody the diverse spirit and unwavering dedication that 57hours champions. Each recipient brings a unique background and perspective to the guiding profession, collectively representing the future of outdoor leadership. Their stories are a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the transformative potential of the wilderness. These guides are set to embark on or continue their advanced coursework through the AMGA and IFMGA this year, specializing in Rock, Alpine, and Ski disciplines.

Profiles of the 2023 Guide Education Fund Scholarship Recipients:

• Anju Samuelson: Hailing from the urban landscape of Berlin, Germany, Anju Samuelson’s early life experiences instilled in her a profound appreciation for community. Guided by her mother’s support, she is now on the path to becoming a fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide. Anju is a fierce advocate for women, genderqueer individuals, and minorities in the climbing community, having founded the Montana Women’s Climbing Festival. Her commitment continues in 2023 as she prepares for her AMGA Rock Guide Exam, aiming to empower others through shared outdoor experiences. Follow Anju’s journey @anjuuuusa.

• Avery Stolte: Avery Stolte discovered her passion for mountaineering and climbing amidst the majestic Ecuadorian Andes, simultaneously recognizing the therapeutic power of sharing the outdoors with others. As she commences her journey toward becoming an AMGA Alpine Guide, Avery is driven by a vision to create inclusive trips and experiences for individuals who may traditionally feel unwelcome or out of place in outdoor settings. Her first AMGA Alpine Skills Course this year marks a significant step towards demonstrating that enjoyment of the outdoors is not predicated on a specific personality or lifestyle. Follow Avery’s journey @aveeystolte.

  

• Boaz Cesaretti: A passionate advocate for increased representation and accessibility, Boaz Cesaretti, a queer and gender-nonconforming individual, has found strength in queer communities. Their entry into the outdoor space initially highlighted a lack of such supportive networks, a gap that has begun to close through recent initiatives. In 2022, Boaz volunteered at the All In Ice Fest, dedicated to elevating marginalized communities in climbing, and participated in a pioneering AMGA affinity course designed for guides from underrepresented backgrounds. These experiences have fortified their spirit and connection to a community within the outdoor world. Boaz’s dream of becoming a fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide is tangible, with an AMGA Ski Guide and Ice Instructor Course already completed in 2023. Follow Boaz’s journey @namaspliff.

• Carlin Reynolds: Carlin Reynolds is on a mission to become the first publicly nonbinary AMGA Certified Rock Guide while simultaneously building a sustainable guiding career. Facing challenges early in their career, including being asked to conceal their gender, Carlin experienced persistent impostor syndrome. A turning point arrived at a Climb OUT Campout in Joshua Tree, where they found community and acceptance. Today, Carlin proudly serves as the Technical Director for OUT in the Wild, an organization fostering queer outdoor community. In 2023, Carlin will undertake the demanding AMGA Advanced Rock Guide Course, a crucial step toward their certification and pioneering visibility. Follow Carlin’s journey @carlin.trustme.

• Ericka Johnson: Ericka Johnson, a burgeoning guide, harbors ambitious goals rooted in empowering women. Her transformative experience on an all-women’s climb in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca ignited a desire to broaden and share such enriching experiences. Growing up in Tennessee, conventional expectations for women deferred her engagement with the wilderness until later in life. However, once discovered, the challenging and fulfilling nature of outdoor work propelled her to spend the last five years professionally engaged in the outdoors. In 2023, Ericka is poised to make significant strides, commencing her coursework as an aspiring AMGA Alpine Guide. Follow Ericka’s journey @ericka.enroute.

• Jack Bynum: Jack Bynum’s life is a quest for mastery in the mountains, balance, spiritual renewal, and sharing wild places with as many people as possible. The wilderness has served as his profound classroom for confronting fear, exploring spirituality, and processing trauma. His deep gratitude for these spaces permeates his work. Through his guiding business, Indigo Alpine Guides, Jack delights in leading people climbing, but his true passion lies in helping individuals reconnect with their inner spirituality, childlike wonder, and discover a newfound sense of empowerment in nature. In 2023, Jack will pursue coursework toward his AMGA Rock and Ski Guide certifications, furthering his mission. Follow Jack’s journey @indigo_alpine.

  

• Julián Lopez: Julián Lopez’s lifelong connection to the outdoors began at the age of eight in Argentina, where he embraced hiking, climbing, skiing, and mountaineering. Since 2010, he has dedicated his life to guiding, serving five years as a trekking guide and six years as a UIMLA (Union of International Mountain Leader Associations) Mountain Guide. Driven to achieve the highest levels of certification, Julián embarked on his IFMGA coursework two years ago. With the invaluable support of family, friends, and his partner, he is now just one examination away from full certification. The journey has been arduous, especially given the considerable costs amplified by his residence in Argentina. This year, Julián will launch Patagonia Mountain Guides and plans to complete his IFMGA coursework, officially becoming an IFMGA Mountain Guide. Follow Julián’s journey @julianbariloche.

• Nate Pakula: Nate Pakula is a seasoned outdoor educator, holding certification as an AMGA Rock Guide. His extensive teaching background shines through his innate ability to understand client needs and consistently deliver unforgettable experiences on the rock. Through his guiding business, High Desert Guiding, Nate is actively working to introduce more young people to Joshua Tree National Park, thereby opening doors to new experiences and opportunities. In 2023, Nate is setting his sights on expanding his expertise, continuing his coursework toward becoming an AMGA Alpine Guide. Follow Nate’s journey @highdesertguiding.

The Broader Impact: Elevating Standards and Expanding Access

The establishment and growth of initiatives like the 57hours Guide Education Fund have far-reaching implications for the outdoor recreation industry. Firstly, by subsidizing the rigorous AMGA and IFMGA certification processes, the fund directly contributes to maintaining and elevating the highest safety and professional standards within guiding. Certified guides possess not only advanced technical skills but also critical judgment, risk management expertise, and wilderness first aid knowledge, ensuring safer and more enriching experiences for their clients. This professionalism is vital for the continued growth and credibility of the adventure tourism sector, which contributes significantly to the global economy. In the U.S. alone, the outdoor recreation economy generates over $887 billion in consumer spending annually and supports 7.6 million jobs, according to the Outdoor Industry Association. A well-trained and diverse guide force is integral to sustaining this economic engine.

Secondly, the fund’s explicit focus on diversity addresses a systemic issue that has historically limited participation and leadership opportunities for women, BIPOC, and LGBTQA+ individuals in outdoor sports. By actively supporting these communities, 57hours is helping to dismantle barriers and foster a more welcoming and representative outdoor community. This increased diversity among guides can lead to a ripple effect, inspiring more diverse clients to explore the outdoors, thereby broadening the appeal and reach of outdoor recreation. It ensures that the narratives and experiences shared in wild places are reflective of a wider societal spectrum, enriching the outdoor culture as a whole.

The 2023 scholarship recipients represent a tangible step towards a future where outdoor guiding is not only highly professional but also deeply inclusive. Their journeys, amplified by 57hours’ support, will serve as powerful examples, encouraging others from similar backgrounds to pursue their dreams in the mountains. This initiative is a testament to the belief that the wilderness should be accessible to all, and that its leadership should mirror the rich diversity of humanity.

A Vision for the Future of Outdoor Guiding

As the outdoor industry continues to evolve, the role of professional guides becomes increasingly critical for safety, education, and fostering environmental stewardship. The 57hours Guide Education Fund is more than a financial aid program; it is an investment in human potential and a commitment to a more equitable and professional future for outdoor guiding. By empowering these eight talented individuals, 57hours is not only supporting their personal career aspirations but also contributing to the collective advancement of the entire guiding community. Their stories will undoubtedly inspire countless others to seek both personal growth in the mountains and professional excellence in guiding.

As these eight guides embark on their 2023 coursework and continue their professional development, their journeys will be documented and shared. Readers are encouraged to keep an eye on the 57hours Magazine for featured stories on each scholarship recipient throughout the year. In the interim, following their individual social media channels and connecting with 57hours on Instagram provides an opportunity to stay updated on their progress and celebrate their achievements as they carve new paths in the world of professional outdoor guiding.

(Cover photo courtesy of Jack Bynum)

About the author

Stephanie Kichler

Teacher, hiker, and lover of the Colorado Plateau

Stephanie is passionate about stewarding the land and water around her. She honors the interconnectedness of our environment and people and seeks ways to give more than she takes when recreating outdoors. She centers her work around shepherding the next generation of outdoor advocates and enthusiasts equally committed to caring for our natural world. You can follow along on her journeys @steph_anie.k.