Before the Khumbu Climbing Center (KCC) existed in Nepal, most sherpas who were making a living guiding people up Everest had little to no formal climbing training or mountaineering skills. The KCC changed that. Over the 20 years it’s existed, this program has had a massive impact on climbing safety in the Himalayas. But it’s also broadening the future for Nepal’s sherpa community.

To celebrate the KCC’s 20th anniversary, The North Face (TNF) dives into the history of the KCC. The video homage, “High Impact at High Altitude,” reflects on how the KCC changed the game for Nepali outfitters and guides, providing a platform for young sherpas to learn necessary technical skills, learn English, and even get into photography and videography. As of 2024, the KCC is completely operated by Nepali locals.

If you want more information about the Khumbu Climbing Center, check out its website. More TNF videos can be found on its YouTube page.