“God lives on the mountain. You have to die to meet god.”
— yusuf ngaina, owner of plains to peak guide company
Five strangers. One mountain.
A journey that tests more than strength.
On the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, five climbers set out to conquer Africa’s tallest peak, guided by three seasoned experts and supported by a devoted team of 24 porters. But this is no ordinary adventure. Pole Pole (Swahili for “slowly, slowly”) captures an unforgettable expedition where each step becomes a reflection of a deeper battle: grief, anxiety, depression, and the silent struggles we carry.
As the group ascends, bonds are forged, truths are revealed, and resilience is pushed to its limits. When their most experienced guide suffers a life-threatening emergency on summit night, the climb turns into a race against time and a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t end at the top.
From breathtaking vistas to raw, emotional revelations, Pole Pole is a gripping, deeply human story about moving forward—even when the air gets thin.
Meet the Cast
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Shelby Carol Cude
Live Multi-Camera Director & Photographer
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Heather Benton, MA, LPC
Mountaineer & Therapist
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Aleya Littleton, MA, LPC, NMI
Adventure Therapist
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Zachary Miller
Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician – U.S. Air Force
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Anne Fabricius, DMD, FACP
Board-Certified Prosthodontist
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Tom Kwai
Lead Guide
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Mohammad Hemed
Assistant Guide
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Salim Mbaga
Assistant Guide
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Yusuf Ngaina
Owner of Plains to Peaks

acclimatization:
the process or result of becoming accustomed to a new climate or to new conditions.








