21 February 2023 — NSSLGlobal, the global independent satcom and IT solutions provider, has announced its sponsorship of Hari Budha Magar, former British Army Gurkha and record-breaking mountaineer, as he attempts to become the first double-above-the-knee (DAK) amputee to summit the world’s tallest mountain in 2023. NSSLGlobal is providing Hari and his climb team leader – the former SAS Mountain leader and professional guide, Krish Thapa – with critical connectivity services, airtime, equipment and essential support to ensure they can remain connected with their support team and families during the monumental climb.
After losing both his legs in 2010 to an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Afghanistan, Hari became an avid campaigner and motivational speaker, challenging perceptions of what people with disabilities can achieve. So far, Hari has already summited Mont Blanc, Kilimanjaro, Chulu Far East and Mera Peak and now has his sights set on Mount Everest. This goal suffered an initial blow in 2017, when Nepal banned solo, blind and double amputee climbers from attempting the challenge, but following the collective effort of Hari and several other people with disabilities and disability organisations, this ban was overturned.
The notoriously dangerous climb will push Hari to his mental and physical limits, requiring three times more energy than the average climber and taking three times longer to complete. It is therefore crucial for Hari to have 24/7 access to communication services, providing the support, safety and welfare needed for Hari and Krish to complete their 8,848-metre climb to the summit. NSSLGlobal will be providing the climbers with satellite phones and data transfer systems along with airtime and service support, ensuring they always have access to the comms they need.
“After my injuries, I initially lost a lot of confidence,” says Hari Budha Magar. “The way disabilities are viewed in Nepal, is as if you’d done something wrong in a previous life and now have a burden to carry. This leads to those with disabilities being hidden, instead of helped. Through mountaineering, I am planning to raise awareness about disabilities not only in Nepal – but around the world – it’s about conquering dreams, inspiring and changing perceptions.”
Neil Fraser, Director Defence and Space Programmes NSSLGlobal says, “Having served with Gurkha soldiers, including in Afghanistan, and been responsible for military communications on several deployments, I know first-hand how critical it is to have safety and welfare communications. Having met Hari and Krish and heard their story, it is a privilege to be able to play a small part in this endeavour.”
Sally-Anne Ray, Group CEO, NSSLGlobal added: “We’re honoured to be supporting Hari’s climb of Mount Everest. A significant number of our company are veterans, so, as an organisation, we have some understanding of the impact service can have on mental and physical health. As a company who has provided communications to the MOD for over 40 years, we jumped at the chance to support Hari. This expedition is not just about reaching the summit, but about inspiring people and showing the world what people living with disabilities can do. We are proud to be a part of Hari’s Journey.”
NSSLGlobal will be providing regular updates on Hari’s progress through its social media channels, and encourages people to visit Hari’s Crowdfunder page for more details and to make donations: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/harieverest.
About NSSLGlobal
NSSLGlobal Group is a leading independent provider of satellite communications and IT solutions with innovation and customer service at the core of its DNA. With over 50 years of experience in the government and maritime mobility markets, NSSLGlobal provides best-in-class satellite solutions and SMART Navcom services, working in partnership with some of the largest MSS and VSAT satellite operators.
Headquartered in the United Kingdom, the company employs 230+ staff worldwide and has offices across Germany, Denmark, Norway, the Netherlands, Sweden, Poland, Singapore, Japan, and the United States.
NSSLGlobal Technologies, its technical and engineering Research and Development division based in Norway is focussed on developing and delivering market competitive satellite-based solutions for IPTV products and VSAT technology including Hubs and VSAT modems for mobility and fixed applications globally.
NSSLGlobal has strong values and is committed to working ethically, with integrity and always lawfully wherever it operates and with everyone it does business with. It is certified to Information Security Management Systems 27001:2013, Quality Management 9001:2015, Environmental Management 14001:2015, Health and Safety management 45001:2018 and 44001:2017 Collaborative Business Relationships. www.nsslgobal.com
NSSLGlobal press contacts
Rebecca Stacey
Berkeley Communications
NSSLGlobal@berkeleypr.com
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