The Burnt Chef Journal
The Burnt Chef Journal
The Burnt Chef Project
Kilimanjaro: A Climb for Mental Health in Hospitality
57 minutes Posted Feb 4, 2026 at 4:21 pm.
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In September 2025, nine incredible individuals took on one of the world’s toughest challenges - climbing Mount Kilimanjaro! To raise funds and awareness for The Burnt Chef Project.
But this wasn’t just about reaching the summit.
It was about why they chose to climb. What The Burnt Chef Project means to them. The physical and mental challenges they faced along the way. And the moments on the mountain that changed them.
In this special episode, we sit down some of our nine incredible climbers: 
Joe BentleyGreg PopekBen TaylorSam SharplesMica MaurtuaTom BiddleSophie ClarkDavid ClarkGintare Zdanevicuite (Ginny)
Together, we reflect on the experience, the purpose behind the challenge, and the power of community, resilience, and mental health advocacy in hospitality.
Most importantly, this episode is a huge thank you and celebration of every single one of these amazing fundraisers who pushed themselves to the limit for a cause close to their hearts.
Because this climb was never just about the mountain - it was about the people.