Zidane Juma Somi

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.