Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro requires more than physical strength. It demands mental resilience, months of preparation, and a willingness to embrace discomfort without a guaranteed outcome. For IEQ Capital’s Plamena Berova, the decision to summit Africa’s highest peak was less about adventure and more about testing herself in the same way her work often demands: with patience, focus, and persistence through uncertainty.
“I wanted something that would challenge me in a completely different way — physically, mentally, and emotionally,” says Berova, who supports financial operations and strategic planning as part of the firm’s Finance team.
In a world that favors quick wins, Kilimanjaro offered a slower, more deliberate path — captured in the Swahili phrase “pole pole,” meaning “slowly, slowly.” It is a pace that reinforces the values Berova brings to her role: steady preparation, emotional discipline, and a long-term mindset. In this conversation, she reflects on the lessons from the climb and how this intentional approach continues to shape her work and perspective today.
What drew you to Kilimanjaro?
I was looking for something that would take me out of my routine and test me in a sustained, quiet way. Kilimanjaro is not technical, but it demands patience, mental endurance, and a willingness to let go of control as you navigate up the mountain through changing climate zones and landscapes. Those are qualities I try to build in myself, and that I think matter in any high-stakes environment, especially in our line of work.
How did you prepare, and what mattered most on the mountain?
I trained physically with long hikes, cardio and strength work. I also learned about the trek from others who have done it and shared their stories online. However, what mattered most was mental preparation. At 19,341 feet, physical training only takes you so far. The rest is mindset, calm, accepting discomfort, and being able to adapt. That translates directly to IEQ and how we work with families navigating complex situations. It is not about having every answer upfront — it is about staying grounded, asking the right questions, and moving forward with intention. Another thing I found very important was the crew of guides and porters I traveled with, which is required on Kilimanjaro. Being led by an expert team plays a major role in successfully reaching the summit. The same is true in work, and I’m grateful and proud to support and be supported by a great team of wonderful colleagues at IEQ.
What was summit day like?
Summit day starts around midnight. It is freezing, completely dark, and everything feels slow. It took six hours to reach the summit from Base Camp. You climb in silence for hours, and you are constantly doing the math in your head — how far have I gone, how far is left. As the sun rises, you realize how high you are. Reaching the summit felt quiet, almost reflective. It was not about celebration, but about the process that got me there.
Were there moments you wanted to give up?
No. But there were moments when I felt some part of me might give out beyond my control. In those times, I had to pause and carefully consider the best way forward. I reminded myself: the discomfort is the point. That lesson shows up at work too. In finance, there are times when things feel ambiguous or the path forward is not immediately clear, especially when you are working through complex planning cycles or supporting big decisions. The climb taught me resilience, to stay steady, focus on the next step, and trust the process even when the full picture is not in view.
What surprised you the most?
How much of the experience was internal, a matter of mindset. Yes, the mountain is physically demanding, but the real work happens in your head—keeping yourself focused, managing your energy, and staying present. In a fast-moving industry like ours, that ability to slow down and get clear on what matters is a huge advantage.
How has the climb influenced your approach to work and life?
It made me more confident in the quiet work — the planning, the follow-through, and the discipline that often goes unnoticed. The experience reminded me that real progress is usually slow and steady. It is not always about big milestones; it is about showing up consistently, step after step, even when the outcome is uncertain. It also reminded me of the importance of self-talk and belief in oneself. The conversations you have in your own mind — especially when things get tough — can either carry you forward or hold you back. Trusting yourself, encouraging yourself, and staying focused on the next small step are often what make the difference between giving up and moving forward.
How do you manage your energy now—personally and professionally?
I am more intentional about rest and recovery. On the mountain, we had to stop between climbs to refuel and breathe. That same rhythm applies in everyday life — knowing when to push and when to pause so you can sustain your focus and show up fully when it matters.
What would you say to someone considering a challenge they are not sure they are ready for?
You probably will not feel ready and that is okay. Start anyway. You grow into readiness by doing. Whether it is a climb, a new role, or a personal challenge, the key is to begin. If it matters to you, it is worth pursuing — even if it feels uncomfortable at first. The other thing that is very important is preparation. You may not feel fully ready, but you can still learn about the mountain, the experience, the risks, and the challenges. Preparation gives you a foundation to stand on when doubts arise. You don’t have to be fearless — you just have to be willing to prepare and take the next step.
Berova’s journey up Kilimanjaro serves as a powerful reminder that growth rarely comes all at once — and often begins with a single, uncertain step. Her reflections offer a thoughtful perspective on how resilience, discipline, and patience earned on the mountain can translate into meaningful impact in everyday life. Whether navigating altitude or ambiguity, she continues to move forward with intention — one step at a time.