Zidane Juma Somi

Meet Zidane, the dedicated CTO and a pillar of Vertical Sky. A proud native of Tanzania, Zidane’s journey from being a porter to becoming a head guide exemplifies resilience, dedication, and a deep-rooted love for Kilimanjaro. Over the past 15 years, he has carried countless climbers, navigated treacherous terrain, and grown into a leader who embodies everything we stand for: integrity, community, and respect for our mountain.

Growing up in the foothills of Kilimanjaro, Zidane’s childhood view of the snow-capped summit fueled his dreams. His connection to the mountain is personal, a lifelong friendship with nature and a commitment to passing on its beauty and importance responsibly.

Zidane’s ascent from portering to guiding hilltops and glaciers has given him invaluable knowledge of Kilimanjaro’s terrains, weather, and ecosystems. His experience is not just technical; it’s emotional and cultural. He understands what it takes to support climbers mentally and physically, ensuring every step is safe, supported, and meaningful.

As co-owner and CTO, Zidane is the visionary behind Vertical Sky’s innovative approach to adventure tourism. He leverages his extensive mountain experience to develop sustainable, ethical practices and cutting-edge safety protocols. His deep understanding of Kilimanjaro’s environment guides our efforts in conservation, community upliftment, and operational excellence.

Zidane shares our core values, respect for nature, fairness for guides and porters, and a passion to make a positive impact. He believes every climb is a journey of not just reaching the summit, but of personal growth, cultural exchange, and community support.

When Zidane isn’t guiding or managing operations, you’ll find him sharing stories around a campfire, passionately discussing conservation, or inspiring others with his mountain journey. His commitment to living in harmony with the mountain’s spirit makes him the heart of Vertical Sky.

Together with Graham, Jenson, and Toni, Zidane is building a company rooted in purpose and driven by the dream of responsible adventure. His lifelong view of Kilimanjaro’s snowy peak isn’t just a childhood dream, it’s a guiding light for a future where adventure and sustainability go hand in hand.

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