28/07/2026
An evening of inspiration, resilience and community.
Recently, Freemasons’ Hall in Northampton welcomed more than 100 guests for a truly memorable evening with Michael Woods, the first Deaf Briton and first Deaf European to reach the summit of Mount Everest.
Hosted by Deaf First and supported by the Province of Northamptonshire & Huntingdonshire, the event brought together members of the local Deaf community for an evening that was about so much more than climbing a mountain.
Through British Sign Language, Michael shared the extraordinary story of his Everest expedition with honesty, humour and humility. He spoke openly about the physical and mental challenges he faced, the isolation of being the only BSL user on the expedition, and the determination that carried him through one of the toughest environments on Earth.
What was planned as a 90-minute presentation became an evening lasting more than two and a half hours, as guests stayed to ask questions, share conversations and see Michael’s expedition equipment up close. It was a powerful reminder that resilience, courage and the support of a community can help overcome even the greatest challenges.
The evening also highlighted the growing relationship between Freemasons’ Hall and the local Deaf community. Since the closure of Northamptonshire’s dedicated Deaf community centre, the Hall has become a welcoming place where friendships continue to flourish, connections are strengthened and community events can thrive.
A huge thank you to Michael Woods for sharing his remarkable journey, to Deaf First for organising such an inspiring event, and to everyone who attended and made the evening so special.
This is Freemasonry at its best—opening our doors, bringing people together and supporting our local communities.
https://www.northants-huntsmasons.org.uk/index.php/news-heading-ns/news-ns/2842-first-deaf-briton-to-conquer-everest-inspires-audience-at-northampton-freemasons-hall
