MOUNTAIN LIFE - Coast Mountains | Fall Winter 2018

52 MLCM FALL/WINTER 2018 board. For example, in spring of 2017, Rich Prohaska (IFMGA/ACMGMountain Guide and local legend) was seeking out an assistant for a Mount Logan (5,959 metres) expedition with his daughter, Naomi, and two clients (one male, one female). Knowing Holly’s credentials as she completed her apprentice exam, and wanting a female presence for his daughter, Rich invited her. Holly felt honoured by the invitation and in May 2017, she was part of a five-person squad that saw three females stand on the top of Canada. That year proved to be a tipping point. In December 2017 Holly was asked to co-design a backcountry course for seven female steep skiers who had experience but were yearning for more knowledge in order to travel confidently and safely in the backcountry without playing follow the leader. Importantly, they requested the course be led by a woman. “This all-female ski course reflects the way I want to travel the backcountry,” says Jean Spencer, 30, one of the seven participants. “It provides an opportunity for women to make all the decisions. It’s a lot different than what you get with a crew full of dudes. It’s collaborative and inclusive.” For Holly, the added value of these courses is how they strengthen female leadership capacity and enhance confident decision-making skills, especially when travelling in a group. She adds that learning in an all-female setting helps women feel comfortable asking questions with no judgement and no ego. “My goal is to break the mould of girlfriends who follow the male leader,” she says. “I want everyone to have a voice and be part of the decision- making process. For sure, strong females already exist out there and this is not a new concept. I’m not promoting ‘empowerment’ as much as just trying to help create and connect future ski buddies who can talk more openly together about decisions in the mountains.” ABOVE Julie Cossette and Holly Walker celebrating on the summit with a Schilling Ascender Ginger Cider. Mt Baker, WA. BELOW Mountain love. Tell us how you really feel, Holly. RE WIKSTROM