In a "Maloca" (House of Thoughts) at the base of the rock, seven women climbers gather around a fire. Alejandra, the facilitator, sets the tone: "We have different paths and stories. Tonight, we share our experiences in confronting our struggles. The talking circle is a safe space where the fire inspires courage. What have we been through?” In the darkness, their voices rise, recounting memories and adventures. We follow them on their groundbreaking achievements: the first female ascents on high-difficulty sport routes, scaling 5,000-meter mountains, and free solo traditional routes. Their tales of struggle and personal transformation are vividly set against the rivers and misty fog of the Colombian tropical and Andean landscapes.
As they sit in the circle, the women open up about grief, motherhood, eating disorders, domestic violence, and bicultural identity. The tension is palpable as they confront their hidden secrets, questions, and pain, building until a scream pierces the air: "This is enough." With the arrival of dawn, Alba, an indigenous Nasa woman, reflects: “I thought I was the only one who faced hardships. Listening to you all shows that you are warriors. Now I know what I am capable of.”
The magic of the talking circle has manifested, revealing the strength and resilience of these women climbers.
