#LifeLessons - Maria Conceicao

NAME: Maria Conceicao

INSTAGRAM HANDLE: @mariatrugrit

JOB TITLE: Ultra Athlete and High Altitude Mountaineer

Maria Conceição is a trailblazing adventurer, philanthropist and athlete who has achieved a remarkable 10 Guinness World Records - for running ultra-marathons and completing Ironman Triathlons, despite no formal background in sports.

She became the first Portuguese woman to summit Mount Everest and K2 and to reach both the North and South Poles. As a UAE resident, Maria’s dedication to pushing human limits is matched by her humanitarian work, for which she has received numerous international awards.

Most recently, Maria made history by completing the prestigious Explorer’s Grand Slam, a feat only achieved by 77 people worldwide. Notably, she is also the first Portuguese woman, the seventh woman overall, and the 77th person to accomplish this extraordinary milestone—a testament to her relentless spirit and determination.

Today Maria shares her biggest life lessons with us:

#LIFE LESSON 1 – Resilience is your greatest ally.

A powerful life lesson from Maria Conceição, as she took on and conquered multiple Guinness World Records. When you face overwhelming challenges, push beyond your limits with unwavering determination, and embrace the setbacks as part of the journey. It’s not about avoiding failure - it’s about persisting, learning and always getting back up.

#LIFE LESSON 2 – Maria Conceição’s second life lesson is based on mindset:

“Your mind is your most powerful tool. When you believe in the impossible, you unlock a strength that pushes past any barriers. Embrace a mindset that sees challenges as stepping stones, not obstacles. Remember, limits are often self-imposed - break them, and you will see what you are truly capable of.

#LIFE LESSON 3 – Your past does not define your future

Maria Conceição’s third life lesson, is drawn from her challenging childhood and incredible achievements. No matter where you come from or what you’ve been through, you have the power to create a new path. Embrace every hardship as fuel for growth, and let resilience and courage guide you toward what others