Phunuru was born in 1980 and grew up in Phortse, in the heart of the Khumbu—practically in Everest’s backyard. He began his mountaineering journey at 18 on the North Side of Everest, where his team discovered the body of George Mallory in 1999. Since then, he’s completed more than 40 expeditions in the Himalayas, including 6 summits of Everest (8,848m), 2 of Ama Dablam (6,812m), and an incredible 12 ascents of Cho Oyu (8,201m). In 2009, Phunuru became the first Nepali Ranger in both Denali National Park and Mount Rainier National Park in the United States. He also serves as a commissioner and the head training instructor at the Khumbu Climbing Center, where he helps train Sherpa guides in safe, modern guiding practices. But what we love most about Phunuru is who he is. Widely considered one of the most beloved people in Nepal, he’s kind, hilarious, and effortlessly organized. We’re incredibly fortunate to have him on our team. His motto is “why not”—and with Phunuru, it truly feels like anything is possible.