Taking on Jebel Jais: A Personal Challenge in Memory of Mark
On Sunday 25 October 2026, our founder Nicola Williams will take on Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, the highest mountain in the United Arab Emirates.
Standing at 1,934 metres, Jebel Jais will bring a very different challenge from the mountain climbs Nicola has completed before. Its rocky terrain and desert environment will require careful preparation, with Nicola carrying the water and supplies she needs throughout the climb.
For Nicola, however, the challenge carries a much deeper meaning. It takes place just days before the third anniversary of losing her husband, Mark, making this time of year particularly significant.
The climb offers a way to remember Mark, reflect on the life they shared and mark the anniversary by doing something positive and purposeful in his memory.
Since losing Mark in October 2023, Nicola has channelled that loss into continuing the values and ambitions that mattered to him. The Mark Williams Foundation was established to help protect children’s access to both parents during family separation, while also creating opportunities for aspiring young entrepreneurs. Although these areas of work are very different, both reflect Mark’s belief in fairness, opportunity and helping people move forward.
Nicola will complete the Jebel Jais climb with the support of an experienced mountain leader. The conditions will be very different from the mountains she is used to in Scotland, making this both a physical challenge and a test of preparation and determination.
Taking on challenges like this has become one of the ways Nicola continues to honour Mark while raising awareness of the work being carried out in his name. What began during an incredibly difficult period has grown into a Foundation supported by volunteers, partners, fundraisers and communities who share its belief in creating stronger futures for others.
On 25 October, Nicola will set out for Jebel Jais with Mark very much in her thoughts. The reason behind the challenge remains simple: to remember Mark, continue the work inspired by him and help ensure that the values he lived by continue to make a difference to others.
We look forward to sharing Nicola’s journey as she prepares for Jebel Jais and takes on this very personal challenge.