Defying the odds while training at Whole Foods for the climb of her life, Lhakpa Sherpa has etched her name in mountaineering history. Sherpa is the subject of the Netflix documentary Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa. The film chronicles her record-breaking 10th summit, her early life in Nepal, and her fight to reclaim her agency and independence in the face of adversity. It also highlights her role as a trailblazer for Nepali women and girls, showing them that defying expectations and achieving greatness is possible.

In 2000, she made history as the first Nepali woman to summit Mt. Everest and survive the descent. Lhakpa's journey is as exceptional as it is relatable, rooted in her determination to rise above her circumstances.

Born into a family of eleven children in the Makalu region of Nepal, Lhakpa grew up surrounded by the towering peaks of the Himalayas. From a young age, she found solace and strength in the mountains, often accompanying her father on expeditions as a porter. Despite societal expectations that confined women to traditional roles, Lhakpa's passion for climbing was undeniable. By age 15, she was seeking work as a porter, defying gender norms and carving a path that would lead her to become one of the most accomplished climbers in the world. In 2003, she and her siblings set a Guinness World Record for the first group of three siblings to climb the summit simultaneously.

Her story is not just one of physical endurance but also of overcoming personal and societal challenges. After moving to the United States, Lhakpa faced the harsh realities of life as an immigrant, enduring intimate partner violence and struggling to provide for her family. Yet, she never let these obstacles diminish her resolve. She continued to climb, both literally and figuratively, using her job at Whole Foods to train for her Everest ascents. Recently, Lhakpa started her own guiding service, Cloudscape Climbing, which she operates in New England and the Himalayas.

As Lhakpa continues to plan future expeditions, including attempts on K2 and another Everest summit, she remains an inspiration to all who dare to dream beyond the limitations imposed by society. Her life is a powerful reminder that any summit is within reach with determination, courage, and a commitment to one's own path.