My work and recreation as a climber and instructor is entangled with the violent displacement of people from what has been designated “public lands.” The photos below were taken on lands which I understand to be first stewarded by the ancestors of those who now organize as: Amah Mutsun Land Trust, Southern Sierra Miwuk Nation, and the Kashia Pomo Indian Tribe. I make an effort to engage with the indigenous history, present, and future of the places that I live, work, and recreate, and encourage others to do the same.
I began rock climbing in 2011 in the Santa Monica Mountains, Chumash and Tongva lands. Soon after moving to Oakland, Ohlone lands, in 2013, I joined GirlVentures as a volunteer mentor in their school-year youth climbing program as a way to merge my passions for both climbing and building community. The experience set me on a path to working as a outdoor educator.
As an instructor, whether for rock climbing trips or extended wilderness expeditions, I value group outdoor experiences as opportunities to grow self-awareness, learn effective communication, and practice interdependence.
A relationship-centered facilitator, I emphasize reflection and curiosity around the complexities of history, place, and identity.
Certified Wilderness First Responder.
I’ve instructed indoor and outdoor private lessons, clinics, and courses. Feel free to contact me with inquiries.
Previously:
- Bridges Rock Gym
- GirlVentures
- Stanford Adventure Program
2021 Live Your Dream Grant recipient
2020 Dynamite Starfish Climber Interview
2018 GirlVentures Her Voice Blog
2012 Angry Poetry Corner
2012 How I Learned to Not Stop Worrying and Still Love Rock Climbing
narinda heng 