OFF THE BEATEN PATH The Lady Alliance

OFF THE BEATEN PATH The Lady Alliance Degenders the Backcountry One Adventure at a Time

KIEREN BRITTON

After being told too many times that she was

"brave for a girl", Kieren Britton, founder of The Lady Alliance, had had enough. We have this bravery in all of us, it's not restricted by gender. Kieren was determined to bring this to light. The Lady Alliance started as an online social community where women had the chance to share their story. Whether it was a photo or adventure article, ladies could submit their adventures and speak through The Lady Alliance. As the community grew, so did the demand for a chance to meet everyone in person. The Lady Alliance's first all women meet up was held in September 2017 at the A O Wheeler Hut in Glacier National Park. This meet up was titled the "First Annual Long Weekend Meet Up" as there was no original intention of becoming an adventure traveling community. We had no idea how excited this community was to meet in person. It reached capacity in only a matter of weeks and was full of inspiring women from all over the globe. Since that first trip, The Lady Alliance has grown to include other adventures, retreats, and courses. The community has yoga'd in Bali, surfed in Tofino, learned avalanche safety, and so much more. They have hosted film festivals and educational workshops with brands such as Fjällräven, Mammut, Arc'teryx, Red Bull and more all around North America, and new this year have shifted into a scholarship based nonprofit organization aiming to change the face of leadership in the backcountry. The Lady Alliance is new to the island, and is excited to host a women's event up at Mount Cain for Backcountry Fest. A day full of education, community and fun in the snow. If you're interested in joining this vibrant community, connect with The Lady Alliance - Vancouver Island Chapter on Facebook.