STEPPING BEYOND COMFORT ZONES: A MOTHER'S JOURNEY ON THE LIFECHANGER ADVENTURE CHALLENGE
At LifeChanger Foundation, we believe transformation happens when we push beyond our perceived limitations. This couldn't be more true for Shweta, who recently completed our three-day hiking Challenge in Tasmania's breathtaking Freycinet National Park.
Initially hesitant about the physical demands, Shweta found herself conquering not just the trails to Wineglass Bay and Mount Amos, but also her own self-doubt. Through challenging weather and demanding terrain, she discovered strengths she didn't know she possessed.
"I realised I was capable of much more than I thought," Shweta shares in this candid interview with her daughter Anvi, one of our dedicated volunteers.
What makes Shweta's story particularly inspiring is how it highlights the unexpected gifts of the Challenge: the bonds formed with diverse fellow hikers, the lessons in resilience, and the profound sense of accomplishment that comes from persevering through difficulty.
Join us as Shweta takes us through her journey of discovery, challenge, and triumph in Tasmania's wilderness – a testament to what happens when we dare to step beyond our comfort zones.
WHY DID YOU WANT TO DO THE HIKE FOR YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH? WHAT ABOUT IT INITIALLY INTERESTED YOU?
We have a Carlisle Day once every year, and each year, a LifeChanger video is played. It displays the hiking journey, and how Life Changer is assisting young children, who are struggling with mental health at such a young age. Each time it plays, it literally gives me goosebumps, thinking of what young people go through each day. So, I thought to myself, why not give back to the community while getting out of my comfort zone, and challenging myself? I also wanted to be a role model for my teenage daughter, so that she can see that no matter what challenges you are faced with, you persevere through, with strength, resilience.
WHAT KEPT YOU GOING THROUGH THE HIKE?
While doing our final packing in Tasmania, I was faced with a big surprise; my family had written 3 letters for me to read each day. This was the biggest motivation as I was looking forward to reading them each day. I also knew that I wanted to give my 100% towards the hike, no matter how tired or sore I felt. During the hike, Scott had mentioned a saying that really stuck to me. “It’s not a race; we all start together and finish together.” The hiking team was also amazing, we all helped and held each other together, motivating everyone through the highs and lows. your own emotional regulation and building habits that sustain us in the long run.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE YOU WERE FACED WITH DURING THE HIKE?
The first few kilometres of the hike were super energetic, with everyone’s spirits held high. However, it started to get extremely hot, meaning we drank most of our water. The middle day was the most exhausting, as I was already recovering from the previous day, while covering the largest distance, and climbing 2 mountains. Our bodies were extremely sore, and we were emotionally and physically stretched on the third day. At the end of the hike, Scott asked us to describe how we felt in one word; and the words accomplished, proud and rewarded were echoing in the air. There were so many mixed emotions, as the journey had come to an end so quickly, but at the same time, we couldn’t wait to go and take a long shower after 3 days.
IF YOU COULD CHANGE SOMETHING – THE WAY YOU PREPARED, OR ENDURED THE HIKE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I had followed the program schedule to my absolute best, going for walks and gym sessions whenever I could. The pack was one of the hardest parts of the hike, as carrying 21kgs on my back while pursuing such a long distance was extremely hard. So, I could have trained with a bit more weight, if not more than 20kgs, so that carrying the pack would feel a bit easier during the hike.
WHAT FEEDBACK WOULD YOU GIVE TO PEOPLE CONSIDERING THE HIKE IN THE FUTURE?
I highly recommend stepping outside your busy lives and embracing nature, as not only will this support Life Changer’s amazing cause by raising funds, but it is also extremely rewarding and gives you an opportunity to create so many life-changing memories!
IT'S A JOURNEY
Shweta's journey wasn’t just about reaching a summit - it was about breaking boundaries, discovering her strength, and proving she had what it takes.
Sure, there were tough moments, wobbly legs, and mud, but there was also joy, laughter, and the thrill of finding out what she’s truly made of.
And maybe the most powerful part? Sharing it all with her daughter. That raw, honest conversation between them wasn’t just an interview; it was a moment of connection, of showing her daughter what courage looks like and inviting her to find her own.
Shweta’s journey proves that when you tackle the challenge with heart and grit, you don’t just climb mountains - you move them. And you inspire the next generation to do the same.
