Ski company Blizzard Tecnica just announced their awards granted for the 2023 Hilaree Nelson Women2Women (W2W) Education Scholarship - their fourth annual scholarship for women looking to advance their education in snowsports.
Hilaree Nelson was an American mountaineer who sadly lost her life as she attempted a descent of Manaslu, the 8th highest peak in the world, on Sept. 26, 2022. Watch a film featuring Hilaree Nelson and Jim Morrison below.
While her passing left a void in the outdoor and mountaineering community, as Nelson was not only a remarkable athlete but a beacon for women across the globe, her legacy lives on as this grant program in her name continues to empower women in the outdoors.
Over the past 3 years, over $60,000 has been awarded to 51 women to further their education and knowledge in snowsports.
This time, over 550 women globally submitted applications, of which the brands selected 17 recipients, awarding over $20,000 in scholarships and Blizzard Tecnica equipment.
Winners of the scholarship have used the money to attend PSIA National Academy and become a ski guide in the Tetons (by taking the AMGA Alpine Skills Course).
Coursework for the grants range from AIARE 1 to AMGA ski guiding, representing a mix of personal and professional goals for recipients - something Global Program Director, Leslie Baker-Brown felt was an important element.
“Education is a key pillar of our Women2Women program,” said Baker-Brown. “It is critical to building confidence and creating opportunities for women to advance into leadership roles in the snowsports industry. When women see what other women have achieved, it instills the belief that anything is possible and there is space for all of us.”
As part of the submission process, applicants were instructed to share why they were applying for the scholarship.
Upon reviewing all entries, a clear theme arose between applicants: the desire to create a more inclusive, accessible space for women and the next generation.
“I remain committed to the belief that we are never done growing into who we are,” said award recipient, Jennifer Mans.
“I hope to make a long and storied career out of working and recreating in the backcountry, showing others by example that this is a viable and rewarding life choice despite financial barriers. Furthering my Avalanche Education allows me to mentor and champion other women who might not otherwise see themselves pursuing these leadership roles.”
Grant programs like this one are so crucial for getting people who may otherwise be barred from the industry due to financial, social, or personal
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