Asia Youth Alpine Mentorship Program (AYAMP)
Build real expedition judgment, alpine skills, and leadership through a year‑long mentorship and a capstone field training
WHO WE ARE
The Asia Youth Alpine Mentorship Program (AYAMP) is a non-profit initiative designed for young individuals (aged 18-26) who aspire to become alpinists and polar explorers. Founded by renowned polar researcher, alpinist, and expedition specialist Wilson (Wai Yin) Cheung, along with Eric (Sheung Keung) Wong, a Wilderness photographer and Polar expedition guide in Asia, AYAMP aims to promote clean, lightweight, and low-impact climbing and exploration.
Our program connects experienced alpinists with technically proficient young climbers who have a strong desire to conquer the world's greatest mountains and engage in exploration on our planet and beyond. AYAMP provides a platform for mentors to share their expertise with enthusiastic young climbers and explorers who are dedicated to pursuing a life of mountain climbing and polar region exploration.
While the concept of mentorship in the field of alpinism is not new, AYAMP stands out by offering a fresh and independent non-profit model. Unlike the state-funded European mountain clubs, such as those in France, Switzerland, Spain, Slovenia, Austria, and Germany, we rely on our own resources, donations from the climbing community, and support from our sponsors.
Our one-year mentorship program places a strong emphasis on teaching judgment to proficient young climbers. We are proud to have esteemed mentors like Mr. Alain Chu from the IMS Myofascial Pain and Sports Physiotherapy Clinic, and Mr. Tat, Chairman of the Mountain Stream Association, among many other respected professionals.
Our values: Judgment • Responsibility • Service • Curiosity • Keep Discovery
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PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
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Duration: 10–12 months (part‑time, hybrid).
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Model: Mentor-supported, self-directed learning. AYAMP is a mentorship community—not a commercial course. There are no fixed weekly classes; progress depends on your own practice, reflection, and initiative.
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Format:
• Occasional weekend meetups (HK/TW)
• Monthly online seminars & peer sessions
• Self-study + field practice guided by mentor check-ins -
Tracks: (a) Alpine Skills, (b) Polar Expedition Basics, (c) Leadership & Outreach, (d) Science for Explorers (maps, snow/ice basics).
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Capstone: Multi‑day winter training on snow & ice [Location TBC; e.g., Norway/Svalbard/Alps] subject to funding, visas, and conditions.
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Output: Expedition plan, personal skills log, and a community service/outreach project.
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Commitment & Costs: No tuition. Participants cover personal expenses (e.g., travel/gear/permits). Time commitment varies by learner; expect steady self-practice between touchpoints.
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Clarity note: AYAMP mentors volunteer their time. We provide guidance and opportunities; you bring motivation, consistency, and ownership of your training.
AYAMP 2025–26 Program Content & Key Dates
Applications: 1–26 Sep 2025
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3 Oct 2025: Expedition lecture @ HKU
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6–10 Oct 2025: Interview invitations sent
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11 Oct 2025: Interviews held
Training & Preparation:
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Nov–Dec 2025: Online training (polar basics, safety, teamwork, field skills)
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Jan–Feb 2026: Planning & logistics (gear, routes, risk register)
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Feb 2026: Winter decision‑making workshop
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Mar 2026: Winter expedition training
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Apr 2026: Feedback & revision
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May 2026: Final expedition prep
Expeditions & Service:
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Jun–Jul 2026: Summer expedition
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Aug–Sep 2026: Serve‑Back to community (outreach, mentorship)
(All in-person Hong Kong dates are in HKT; online sessions default to HKT unless noted.)
ELIGIBILITY & SELECTION
Age
18–26 at the time of application.
Base Fitness
Capable of carrying 20 kg for 20 km with 1,000 m elevation gain; able to sustain 6–8 hours of outdoor training.
Outdoor Background
Strong hiking and overnight camping experience required. Basic rock or ice climbing preferred (e.g., lead sport 5a/5.8, or top-rope 6a and above).
Languages
English or Chinese (Cantonese/Mandarin).
Citizenship/Residency
Priority given to applicants from Hong Kong or Taiwan. Other applicants may be considered if capacity allows.
Mindset & Intent
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Positive safety culture and service-oriented spirit.
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Genuine motivation to build a future career in the polar and expedition industry.
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Willingness to learn, contribute, and give back to the community.
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Commitment to fully engage with the program for one year, including training, expedition, and outreach phases.
Exclusions
The program does not accept Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), influencers, or applicants primarily seeking social media exposure.
Financial Commitment
Selected participants must confirm their place with a HKD 3,000 deposit, refundable upon successful completion of the program.
Selection Criteria (weighted)
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Motivation & fit with AYAMP values (30%)
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Safety mindset & decision-making potential (25%)
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Prior outdoor exposure & learning agility (20%)
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Commitment to the full program & outreach (15%)
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Communication & teamwork (10%)
AYAMP PARTICIPANT RESPONSIBILITIES
As an AYAMP participant, you are not just joining a program — you are stepping into a year-long journey of growth, service, and exploration. Your responsibilities ensure that you gain the full benefit of this experience and contribute to the wider alpine and polar community.
1. Embrace self-exploration and strive to discover your own capabilities and the wonders of the physical world.
2. Attend the program consistently and actively engage in the activities and training provided.
3. Contribute financially to cover the costs associated with attending the program. Remember, all mentors provide their services voluntarily.
4. Give back to our community through service initiatives and contribute to the betterment of society.
5. Inspire and enlighten others and our society through your passion for exploration and discovery.
COMMITMENT & COSTS
Time Commitment
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~6–8 hours per week on average.
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Several intensive training weekends.
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Capstone field block: 7–10 days expedition.
Financial Model
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Mentors volunteer their time.
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Participants share direct costs (travel, huts/camps, permits, insurance).
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AYAMP fundraises to reduce barriers; limited scholarships available.
Deposit
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A HKD 3,000 deposit is required upon acceptance, refundable upon successful completion of the full program year.
Gear & Equipment
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Participants must provide their own personal gear (clothing, boots).
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Shared technical equipment will be provided where possible.
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Gear-loan program available in limited capacity.
Insurance
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Proof of valid medical/travel insurance (including rescue coverage where applicable) is mandatory before any field activity.
MENTEE’S BENEFITS
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Free Enrollment
Join AYAMP without paying tuition fees — your commitment and effort are your true investment. -
Mentorship
Learn directly from experienced alpinists and polar expedition leaders across Asia who volunteer their time to guide you. -
Specialized Training & Lectures
Participate in exclusive lectures, skill-building workshops, and personalized training consultations at no cost. -
Industry Network
Build lasting connections with a strong community of peers, mentors, and professionals in the alpine and polar expedition industry. -
Field Experience & Assessment
Gain hands-on field training and be assessed in real alpine and/or polar environments — experience that prepares you for future expeditions and careers.
Program Initiatives Overviews
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Aspire and Cultivate Polar Exploration and Alpinism
At AYAMP, our core mission is to ignite and nurture the aspirations of the next generation of polar explorers and alpinists. We firmly believe in the transformative power of mentorship, igniting the flames of curiosity and resilience within our young participants. Our program is crafted to impart the knowledge and experiences essential for thriving in the planet's most challenging environments. We go beyond merely equipping individuals with skills; we kindle a fervor for the polar realms and high-altitude adventures. Our goal is to cultivate a new generation of adventurers who embody both competence and an unwavering passion for exploring Earth's coldest and loftiest realms.
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Promote Next-Generation Exploration and the Discovery of the Unknown
Exploration is the pulsating heart of AYAMP. We champion the notion that our mentees must push the boundaries of familiarity and known horizons. Our program is meticulously designed to nurture an unquenchable curiosity and a yearning for unveiling the mysteries of the unknown. Our vision of exploration transcends physical landscapes; it encompasses the uncharted territories of personal growth and self-discovery. Through AYAMP, we endeavor to nurture a fresh breed of explorers who embark on quests to uncover the enigmas of our world, whether they be concealed within polar regions, towering mountain peaks, or the depths of their own boundless potential.
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Training the Leaders for Society
Leadership is woven into the very fabric of AYAMP. Our mentorship program transcends the mere imparting of expedition skills; it polishes the facets of leadership within each individual. We firmly uphold the belief that leadership is not about issuing commands but rather inspiring and guiding others towards shared objectives. Through the instillation of leadership attributes, we aim to nurture individuals who are primed to lead in formidable circumstances, make judicious decisions, and set an inspiring precedent for others. Our vision of leadership isn't confined solely to the realm of exploration; it extends to empower these leaders to make a positive impact on society at large.
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Serve Back to Society
The spirit of giving back resonates deeply within AYAMP. We place paramount importance on both social and environmental responsibility. Our mentees are urged to recognize their roles in society and the inherent necessity of contributing positively. We ardently believe that exploration and adventure should transcend self-serving interests and should, in turn, be channeled towards the greater good. AYAMP instills in its participants a profound understanding of the significance of preserving our natural world and making meaningful contributions to society. This might encompass environmental stewardship, the sharing of knowledge, or mentorship to the subsequent generation of adventurers.
Explore
Social Responsibility and Community Engagement
In line with our commitment to holistic development, AYAMP places a strong emphasis on social responsibility and active engagement within the community. Our program instills in mentees a deep-seated sense of duty to contribute positively to society.
AYAMP 2025/26 Application Call
Deadline: 26 September 2025 (23:59 HKT)
The AYAMP 2025/26 program is a core polar and alpine expedition training initiative designed for youth from Hong Kong and Taiwan who aspire to become the next generation of alpinists and polar explorers.
How to Apply
Please submit the following materials to alpineasiayouth@gmail.com by the application deadline:
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Application letter (max 1 page) – include your CV and outdoor activity log.
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Self-introduction video (2–3 minutes) — share a link (YouTube/Drive).
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Email subject: AYAMP 2025/26 Application – <Your Name>
File names: Surname_Firstname_CV.pdf, Surname_Firstname_Log.pdf
Application Guidelines
In your application letter and video (in English), kindly address the following points:
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How does joining AYAMP align with your life mission?
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Which regions or environments would you most like to explore and discover?
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During a commercial or research expedition, do you consider guest/teammate experience or personal satisfaction more important? Why?
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What risks do you think are most significant during a multi-month expedition without outside communication?
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Do you have any prior skiing or winter expedition experience?
Why Join AYAMP?
At AYAMP, renowned mentors and passionate climbers come together to exchange knowledge, develop leadership, and embark on extraordinary alpine and polar expeditions. This is your chance to train, connect, and contribute to shaping the future of exploration.
Between 2019 and 2025, AYAMP members actively participated in three noteworthy events
ALUMNI
CANON CHAN
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2024)
“Climb mountain not so the world can see you, but so you can see the world.”
Canon Chan enjoys various outdoor activities and uses them to explore himself. He has a strong connection to the natural world.
During high school years, Canon had the opportunity to engage in hiking and camping, and since then, he fell in love with hiking. Over the following years, he has hiked all over Hong Kong, exploring different peaks and routes, including trekking in MacLehose Trail and visiting Taiwan's Hehuan Mountain. Also, he continually embraces various outdoor pursuits like diving, climbing, and abseiling.
He is currently undertaking the renewal project of Mt. Stenhouse crag on Lamma Island.
CHELSEA
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2024)
“Believe in yourself, because you have unlimited potential.”
Chelsea is an rock climber with three years of experience under her belt. Her passion for adventure and exploration has fueled her desire to conquer new heights. With an insatiable love for the feeling of being high up, Chelsea aspires to become an alpinist.
Driven by her ambition, Chelsea has already embarked on her alpine journey. She recently ventured to Korea, where she tried to summit several peaks in alpine style. Embracing the philosophy of minimalism, she prefers to tackle the mountains with the least amount of tools and equipment, always striving to maintain a lightweight approach.
As Chelsea continues to push her limits and explore the world's breathtaking landscapes, her dedication to alpinism remains unwavering. With each ascent, she seeks to embrace the thrill of the climb and the beauty of the mountains, and keep exploring in the world of alpinism.
MICHAEL
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2024)
“Adventure is worthwhile in itself.”
Michael is an avid adventurer who thrives on exploring the far reaches of the world. In his journeys to Caucasus and South Asia, he hitchhiked and traversed countries like Iran and Armenia, immersing himself in rural communities and embarking on exhilarating hikes in Pakistan and Azerbaijan. These experiences have been transformative for Michael, igniting a passion for exploring new territories and uncovering the wonders of our world.
With a deep love for trail running, hiking, and rock climbing, Michael aspires to become an accomplished alpinist and explorer. Adventure is an integral part of his being, driving him to seek out new challenges and push his limits.
KERI
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2024)
“Don’t call it a dream, call it a plan”
Keri enjoys being in the mountains and surrounded by nature. During her time at university, she began hiking and trekking overseas, such as the ABC trail in Nepal, Mount Fuji and Yufu in Japan, Hallasan in Jeju, Mount Kinabalu in Sabah. She has fallen in love with the breathtaking views from the mountain peaks and finds joy in immersing herself in the natural beauty.
In the future, Keri would like to learn more about alpine climbing in order to explore more mountains around the world. Her ultimate goal is to become a professional expedition guide and dedicate herself to nature and mountaineering.
OSCAR LI
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2024)
“Into the unknown.”
During his time in secondary school, Oscar was fortunate to be selected for a program, hiking a 3,358-meter mountain called Mount Nanhua in Taiwan. Since that journey, he has developed a deep interest in hiking and a love for nature. He has started exploring the possibilities of outdoor activities in Hong Kong, such as climbing, freediving, and kayaking. Nature has become an integral part of his life.
Oscar is not only eager to have adventures in the world but also to seek adventure within himself. He views each challenge and hurdle during his adventures as an opportunity for personal growth.
Within this program, Oscar is enthusiastic about learning to become an alpinist. He hopes to step into the unknown, exploring the world of Alpinism and actualising his potential.
MOON
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2024)
“Believe in yourself, because you have unlimited potential.”
Moon has a passion for sports, nature, and taking on challenges. From a young age, Moon participated in various sports such as aquathlon, cross-country racing, and freediving to explore her potential. In her view, overcoming difficulties to reach the summit of mountains not only brought her satisfaction but also provided valuable experiences and knowledge from her climbing companions. This led Moon to engage in activities like rock climbing, hiking, and trekking, further immersing herself in the mountains and nature. However, Moon is driven by a strong desire to face new mental and physical challenges. As she explores her path, she becomes acquainted with the concept of an alpinist. With growing certainty, Moon recognizes that becoming an alpinist is her ultimate goal and life mission.
With great enthusiasm, Moon wholeheartedly embraces the demanding training that lies ahead. She is eagerly looking forward to learning from experienced mentors and alpinists who can guide her on this journey. Moon is filled with excitement as she prepares to embark on this adventure and become an integral part of the alpinist community.
RINGO MA
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2024)
“Adventure is the discovery of the relationship between yourself and the world.”
Ringo has always regarded nature as his second home. Since his childhood, he felt an undeniable pull towards the mountains and nature, which only grew stronger as the years went by. Ringo finds solace in the embrace of the wilderness and enjoys a wide array of outdoor activities, whether it’s camping, scrambling, climbing, or kayaking. His fourteen years of scouting experience have laid a solid foundation for his future adventures, and also reminds him the significance of giving back to society.
Looking ahead, Ringo is eagerly working toward becoming an Alpinist, with the aim of sharing the beauty of nature with a wider audience.
Life’s adventures are an intricate part of Ringo’s being.
BILLY NIP
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2022)
"Your only limit is your mind."
Billy would like to inspire more people get in touch with nature and treasure it. He loves rock climbing, mountaineering, diving, kayaking ,etc.
Growing up in Hong Kong, where people always describe it as a concrete jungle, he spent much of his childhood immersed in the outdoors and currently a passionate outdoor activity instructor.
Billy started his first foreign country hike in 2015 at Taiwan Mt jade. After that, he fell in love with the big mountain. During these years, he went to Indonesia, China and Japan to go hiking. In 2018, he went to Chola Mountain (6168m). After that trip, he started to research different mountaineering styles and learn about alpinism. In 2023, he spent a year travel around France, Italy, Switzerland, and Norway for mountaineering, ice climbing, rock climbing, and bouldering.
He is dedicated to becoming a professional mountain guide while steadfastly pursuing his lifelong passion for mountaineering, and is now advancing his journey through an application to
Photo credit - Eric Wong @eric_songbill
ALDEN CHAN
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2022)
"It's always seems impossible until it's done."
Alden Chan is an energetic and passionate person who enjoys staying in the mountains and nature.
During his university study, he got a chance to join the Excursion and Travel Affairs Association which allow him to organise different outdoor activities and overnight camp to members. It made Alden fall in love with nature and mountains. After that he started trekking overseas, like ABC trail in Nepal, Hehuan Mountain in TaiWan, Yubeng in China and Mount Iō in Japan.
In future, Alden would like to explore more mountains in the world.
Photo credit - Eric Wong @eric_songbill
KATIE LIU
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2022)
"Life was meant for great adventure."
Katie spent much of her childhood on beaches and rocks along the ocean. Attracted to remote places, she went to Wales as an exchange student — an experience that nurtured her love for mountain nature meanwhile motivated her curiosity in sustainable tourism.
Life is meant for great adventures as we only live once. Katie is eager to learn about how to be an alpinist and polar expedition guide. She hopes to aspire others to conserve the beauty of the planet through unique experiences in nature.
She is now pursuing a Master's degree in Marine Science at the University of Tasmania, with the goal of becoming a polar marine scientist.
OSCAR CHAN
- AYAMP MENTEE (CLASS OF 2022)
"All life is about experiment"
Oscar (Tsz-Hin) Chan considers himself an avid mountain lover because he likes the versatility of being able to be in the mountains every day.
He likes trail running, mountaineering, drone shooting, rock climbing, abseiling... Since he was little, he was imbued with love of the mountains and learned about the sport.
Mountains and nature ,therefore are a part of him.
MEET THE MENTOR
Dr. WILSON (WAI-YIN) CHEUNG
Glaciologist, Polar researcher and expedition leader
ERIC WONG
Alpinist, expedition guide and photographer
TSANG LING TAT
Chairman of Mountain and Stream Association,
Register Mountain craft coach (Level 3, CHKMCU)
MR.ALAIN CHU
IMS Myofascial Pain and Sports Physiotherapy Clinic
Program Expenses
(Example from Class of 2023/24)
Every AYAMP expedition is run on a non-profit, cost-sharing basis. Our mentors volunteer their time, and participants cover the basic costs of joining the training program. This ensures that every dollar goes directly into making the expedition possible.
Example budget (per person): 9-day Norwegian Polar Training, 2023/24
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Flight (Hong Kong ↔ Oslo, round trip): USD 1,000
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Accommodation (Oslo + mountain huts): USD 800
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Food & field rations: USD 450
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Ski & expedition gear rental: USD 500
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Local transport (airport & field transfers): USD 350
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Insurance & misc.: USD 300
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Estimated self-cost per participant: USD 3,400 (~HKD 26,500)
Why this matters
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Participants (mentees): You invest in your growth—building polar skills, resilience, and leadership in real Arctic conditions.
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Mentors: Mentors also self-fund, demonstrating equal commitment to learning and guiding.
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Donors & partners: Your support reduces the financial burden on youth explorers, making life-changing expeditions accessible to more people.
Notes: Actual costs vary by airfare, exchange rates, and itinerary. AYAMP does not charge tuition; personal gear purchases are not included. Scholarships or donor support may offset participant self-costs.
Donors & Partners
We are deeply grateful to our donors and partners for their generous support. 100% of every dollar goes directly to AYAMP programs. Your contributions make it possible for AYAMP to continue mentoring the next generation of alpine and polar explorers.
How your gift is used
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Access & Equity: Need-based support for disadvantaged mentees (e.g., airfare top-ups, gear/insurance assistance).
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Shared Expedition Costs: Group expenses such as accommodation sharing (mountain huts/hostels), local transport.
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Training & Outreach: Course materials and youth engagement activities that build the next generation of alpine and polar explorers.
Special Thanks To:
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Miss Christine Yu
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Play Hard Hong Kong
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Victor and William Fung Foundation