At TITAN Containers, we believe that impact isn’t only defined by our business activities — it’s also shaped by the actions and ambitions of the people who make up our team. That’s why we’re proud to support personal challenges that reflect the spirit of TITAN Impact, our global charity initiative.
In April 2025, one of our colleagues, Aaron Shovlar, set out on a three-week expedition to climb Mera Peak in the Himalayas. At 6,476 metres, Mera Peak is Nepal’s highest trekking summit — a physically and mentally demanding journey through one of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
An adventure beyond the office
This climb represented a long-held personal goal for Aaron, who has previously taken on a variety of outdoor challenges. He travelled into the Himalayas during a season when the weather adds an extra layer of difficulty, with temperatures dropping to -22°C, pushing himself in a remote, high-altitude environment.
While this wasn’t a TITAN-organised expedition, it was a challenge that aligned with the values we champion through TITAN Impact: resilience, courage, personal growth, and wellbeing.
Reflections from the summit
Now safely back, Aaron shared some of the most meaningful takeaways from his journey:
“Without question, it was the most physically and mentally demanding experience I’ve ever undertaken. The days were long and punishing — one stretched to 14 hours of trekking and mountaineering. Summit day alone required a six-hour ascent, beginning at 2am in -22°C temperatures with biting windchill bringing it down to -34°C. At times, the cold and extreme altitude resulted in your brain not functioning properly.”
“Each morning began with a pounding headache from the altitude. The environment was harsh and unforgiving — many people had to turn back, and some were even evacuated by helicopter due to injury or requiring oxygen. Ultimately, it came down to sheer grit and determination.”
“There were moments when everything hurt — legs, feet, lungs. The thin air made every breath a challenge, and I have photos where my lips are grey from the cold. But standing at the summit, watching the sunrise over the Himalayas with Everest in the distance, made every struggle worthwhile.”
“What stood out most was the camaraderie we built. With no phones or distractions, we bonded through shared stories, laughter, and quiet perseverance. It reminded me how much we take for granted — a hot shower, clean socks, even something as simple as a bag of crisps.”
“Mentally, it pushed me beyond what I thought was possible. I’ve come away feeling stronger, not just physically, but in mindset. There were days when all you could do was dig deep and keep moving forward — through the rain, through the fatigue, through the discomfort.”
“And I have to say, the Nepalese guides were extraordinary. Their expertise, humility, and quiet strength were instrumental in getting us through. They led with calm confidence, and their deep connection to the mountains was both grounding and inspiring. We couldn’t have done it without them.”
TITAN Impact: supporting people and purpose
TITAN Impact was created to direct our resources toward meaningful causes — from disaster relief and environmental initiatives to charitable partnerships and workplace wellbeing.
We know that supporting wellbeing at work means recognising that health, motivation, and resilience extend far beyond the office walls. Whether it’s giving back to their communities or pursuing a bold personal goal, our people are encouraged to take on challenges that recharge and inspire them, ultimately benefitting both their personal lives and their professional mindset.
Aaron’s story is more than just an account of a mountain conquered — it’s a powerful reminder of the value of stepping outside your routine to gain new perspective. His journey reflects the deep connection between personal growth and workplace wellbeing, showing how time spent away from the desk can return with renewed focus and energy.
