Hi, I’m Ryan, a 19-year-old first year psychology student at the University of Leeds.

This August, I’ll be taking on one of the biggest challenges of my life—climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro as part of a 6-day university trek and fundraiser for Student Minds, the UK’s leading student mental health charity.

Why Student Minds?

Mental health is a huge challenge for students across the UK. Student Minds works to ensure that no student struggles alone by providing resources, training, and support services. Their initiatives, like Student Space, offer direct mental health guidance, while their research and advocacy push for better university mental health policies. By creating a culture of openness and understanding, they help students access the support they need to thrive.

Why This Means So Much to Me

Like many others, I’ve faced my own mental health struggles. I know firsthand how isolating it can feel. For a long time, I tried to deal with everything myself, but reaching out & getting support was life-changing. That’s why Student Minds’ work is so important to me—I want to help ensure no student feels like they have to go through it alone.

It would mean the world to me being able to stand at the top of the mountain knowing that not only have I come a long way personally, but that the money raised will go towards supporting those who are going through tough experiences, and allow them to hopefully live happier & healthier lives.

How You Can Help

I need to raise £4,970 by mid June to make this challenge possible and contribute to Student Minds’ vital work. As a team, we hope to raise over £40,000 to make a real difference.

• All donations up to my target will be split between Student Minds and covering the costs of the challenge.

• Gift Aid on donations and anything raised above my target will go directly to Student Minds.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help change lives. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this with others will still be a massive help.

Thank you so much for your time and support! :)