On Saturday 26 April 2025, the streets of Bamenda bore witness to passion, and purpose as popular local blogger promoter of 360blog Africa, Wirba Leonard popularly known as NeutralBoo, took on his second Trek-a-thon, a solo mission from Foncha Street to Mile 2 Upstation. This wasn’t just a walk through town; it was a statement, an act of advocacy cloaked in sweat, determination and a call to spark mental health awareness.
With a mobility limitation that sees him moving with only one functional lower limb, Leonard's accomplishment is nothing short of extraordinary. For over two hours, he journeyed uphill, step by determined step, proving not only the power of physical endurance but also the strength of purpose that fuels the human spirit.
“This time around it was really stiff and I must say I'm proud of myself. Taking this journey to another level and accomplishing the mission in 2 hours and some minutes,” Leonard shared on his Facebook page after the trek.
Themed "igniting positivity beyond mental health", this year’s edition expanded on the foundational objectives of the inaugural Trek-a-thon. That first initiative had aimed at empowering individuals with disabilities, guiding youths toward skill acquisition, and providing support to vulnerable children. But for this second round, Leonard zeroed in on the unseen battles many youths face, the quiet war inside the mind.
“As we navigate the complexities of our diverse communities, it's clear that many young people are being drawn into destructive behaviours, often due to peer pressure, economic challenges, or societal stigma. This can lead to a downward spiral of negative self-talk, eroding their mental well-being and potential,” he told hilltopvoices.com in the lead-up to the event.
Against this backdrop, the Trek-a-thon sought to encourage conversations around mental health, addiction, and the rehabilitative power of physical activity. By trekking, Wirba Leonard not only exercised his body but also exemplified the mental discipline needed to overcome adversity.
His journey was punctuated by moments of fatigue, inner doubt, and unexpected miracles. He stopped first at Njeiforbi Chick’n Burger, where he rehydrated with a bottle of water then pushed forward to his second rest point at Mile 2 Upstation, near the Treasure Centre.
“I was at first discouraged because of so many things. But because I had planned this and it was my initiative, I didn't give up. Many people encouraged me. It was a miracle, I will say.” he reflected
But Wirba’s trek also doubled as an environmental call to action. Along his path, near the Blue Moon area, he was confronted by a disturbing reality.
“There was a mass dump of dirts which is so irritating and very detrimental to health. I pray those in charge should take charge and pick up this dirt... We need a clean environment to ensure a healthy health and safe community.” he shared
From his humble beginnings as a voice on social media, Wriba Leonard has evolved into a changemaker, rallying young people and the wider community to reimagine what inclusion, health, and purpose can look like.
“Ultimately, I aim to inspire a sense of purpose and self-worth among youths, encouraging them to tap into their inner strength and potential,” he told hilltopvoices.com. “As Philippians 4:13 reminds us, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’”
In a region and a time where hope often feels like a scarce commodity, Leonard Wirba’s steps are a powerful reminder: one man’s walk can move a community. And sometimes, the greatest treks are those taken not just with the legs, but with the heart.
By Bakah Derick
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
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