Edurne Pasaban, the first woman to scale the fourteen eight-thousanders on the planet, shared her perspective on mountains and life during her recent visit to Tenerife. The mountaineer, engineer, and entrepreneur participated in the central event for the 50th anniversary of the Official College of Technical Industrial Engineers of Tenerife, held at the Adán Martín Auditorium of Tenerife.
Having visited the island several times before, Pasaban expressed her fondness for Tenerife's arid and mountainous landscape, describing it as a special place. Her memories intertwine with friendships forged in Himalayan expeditions and the sense of peace the island provides, even comparing it to the tranquility sought in expeditions.
“"Mount Teide is a summit that must be conquered at least once in a lifetime"
The mountaineer highlighted Teide as the highest peak in Spain and an impressive challenge due to its elevation gain from sea level. She noted that while islanders may not always fully realize this privilege, for any mountain enthusiast, ascending Teide is a dream objective.
Reflecting on success, Pasaban emphasized that it lies not solely in reaching the summit but in the ability to return, maintaining consistency and perspective. She stressed that true success is measured by the capacity to endure and persevere, not just by achieving isolated goals.
Pasaban also connected her background as an industrial technical engineer with her sporting career, explaining how concepts of planning, risk management, and decision-making, inherent to engineering, were crucial in her expeditions. Both disciplines, according to the mountaineer, share the ability to face challenges and objectives.
Currently, Edurne Pasaban focuses on motivational and leadership conferences, finding fulfillment in sharing her experiences. While she acknowledges the lack of adrenaline compared to high-altitude mountaineering, she believes the greatest success is finding a passionate vocation and being able to live from it.
“"The great mountaineer is the one who knows when to turn back"
She stressed the importance of teamwork, both in mountaineering and professional life, criticizing the tendency to individualize success. For Pasaban, a person's visibility should not overshadow the crucial role of the team surrounding them, which is the true engine for achieving ambitious goals.
Regarding the impact of technology, Pasaban acknowledged its benefits in improving weather information and equipment, but also warned about its negative aspects, such as the crowds on peaks like Everest, which can stem from a perception of complete accessibility.
On a personal level, Pasaban feels particularly proud of having reached the summit of motherhood, following her fourteen eight-thousander challenge. She looks back with great satisfaction, not only for her sporting achievements but for managing to live her passion in a field that was initially niche and male-dominated.
