Bonita Norris was the youngest British woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest at the age of 22 in May 2010. She returned to the Himalayas two years later to became the first woman to climb Mt Lhotse, the world’s fourth highest mountain.

Bonita, from Wokingham in Berkshire, is also one of the most sought after motivational speakers, visiting hundreds of schools and colleges each year.

Bonita recently visited Harlow College, being invited to speak to A Level students, as part of their National Citizen Service (NCS) programme.

The students have been focusing on mental health and resilience awareness - colleges and schools are increasingly noticing the need to support and discuss mental health.

Bonita spoke about facing challenges and overcoming adversity, particularly in extreme conditions, in what the students agreed was a very inspirational speech. During the autumn term, students will be working with YCT to train a team of peer mental health champions within the College to help support all learners.

Speaking about her visit to Harlow College, Bonita said: “One piece of advice I would give, if I’ve learnt anything in the mountains, is that no matter how big the challenge you can always find the energy and will to take one more step.

I think that’s true with any challenge in life - when you feel like giving in, just find a way to do one more thing before you throw in the towel. That’s how I climbed Everest.”

https://www.facebook.com/HarlowCollege/videos/1652067431510641/

http://www.bonita-norris.com/adventures/