NO CHALLENGE TOO SMALL OR PEAK TOO HIGH

Vivek's dedication to his goals is truly admirable. He sets high standards for himself and works diligently to achieve them. Whether it's conquering a challenging hiking trail, excelling in his studies, or improving his skills in sports, Vivek approaches each endeavor with focus and determination.

Babu Neelam, an Indian native who later moved to the USA, harbored a deep passion for an active lifestyle even after his relocation. Babu, a Software Engineer at Salesforce, and his wife Jayasri, a homemaker, brought up their three boys – Vivek (11), Vishwas (6), and Vijay (5) – in the Bay Area and later in Folsom.

Babu's love for outdoor activities like biking, running, and swimming remained undiminished. The allure of San Francisco's mountains and trails captivated him, and his eldest son, Vivek, shared his zest for adventure. Together, they conquered numerous trails and even scaled Lassen Peak when Vivek was just 4.5 years old.

A promise made to his nephew set Babu on a course to embark on an epic adventure. Proposing an expedition to Everest Base Camp (EBC), Babu's enthusiasm inspired Vivek and his nephews to join. Battling challenges during the trek, Vivek's determination shone, culminating in their successful EBC summit in 2022, when Vivek was only 10 years old.

This experience transformed Vivek, boosting his self-confidence and attitude. He tackled challenging hikes effortlessly and expressed interest in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Despite setbacks due to a fractured toe, Vivek's determination prevailed, and in July 2023, he and Babu summited Kilimanjaro, leaving an indelible mark on their journey.

Vivek's adventurous spirit ignited a passion in his younger brothers and friends, fostering bonds and inspiring future explorers. Beyond hiking, Vivek excelled in academics, favoring subjects like social studies and science. He exhibited a voracious appetite for knowledge, avidly reading, and delving into various hobbies like soccer, swimming, biking, and painting.

Vivek's dedication, whether in conquering hiking trails, excelling in studies, or pursuing his hobbies, resonated with everyone around him. His family's support and his goal-oriented mindset ensured a bright future for this young adventurer, where his determination and passion would undoubtedly continue to shine.