On May 10, 2025, Uta Ibrahimi from Kosovo made history by becoming the first Albanian and the first person from the Balkans to summit all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters in the Himalayan mountain range—commonly referred to as the “Roof of the World.” She completed this extraordinary achievement with her ascent of Kangchenjunga (8,586 m), the world’s third-highest mountain, marking the end of a globally significant mountaineering mission.
Her ambitious project, Utalaya 14×8000, began in May 2017 with the summit of Mount Everest and spanned eight grueling years. Throughout this journey, Ibrahimi faced extreme natural conditions, life-threatening risks, and severe weather challenges. Yet, her resilience and determination propelled her forward, resulting in a story of success that transcends sport and serves as a broader source of inspiration.
“I didn’t climb just to see the world from above. I climbed so the world could see where I come from,” Ibrahimi said in a statement to the media following her final expedition.
With this milestone, she joins a highly exclusive group of fewer than 50 climbers worldwide who have completed the so-called “Crown of the Himalayas”—one of the most demanding challenges in modern mountaineering.
Beyond the personal and national significance of her accomplishment, Ibrahimi’s success carries a powerful social and educational message. Through her foundation, Utalaya, and her ongoing work in promoting sustainable development and gender equality, she has been a tireless advocate for youth empowerment—especially encouraging girls to pursue their dreams and overcome societal barriers.
“Each summit is a battle won for those of us born excluded. And each victory is an invitation to dare more,” she emphasized at the conclusion of her final climb.
Conquering all 14 of the Himalayan giants is not only a personal athletic feat, but a testament to what can be achieved when vision, dedication, and courage come together with a higher purpose. Uta Ibrahimi’s name now holds a well-deserved place in the annals of global mountaineering—and in the collective pride of the Albanian people.