Red Squirrel Property Shop CEO Charlie Panayi is set to take on South America’s highest mountain in a fundraising challenge supporting Mountbatten Isle of Wight and Zoe’s Law.
Charlie, Chief Executive of Red Squirrel Property Shop, has announced plans to summit Aconcagua in January 2027, a peak that rises 6,961 metres above sea level and is regarded as one of the world’s most demanding climbs.
The expedition will be undertaken in memory of his sister, Zoe Panayi, in support of Zoe’s Law, while also raising vital funds for Mountbatten Isle of Wight.
Standing as the highest mountain in South America, Aconcagua presents climbers with extreme altitude, unpredictable weather conditions and long, gruelling summit days that test both physical endurance and mental resilience.
Charlie said:
“This is not about ticking off another mountain. It’s about choosing something genuinely hard, for a reason that matters. Zoe’s Law exists because of loss, and Mountbatten exists because people need care and dignity at the hardest moments of life.”
The Aconcagua climb will form the final challenge in a wider eight-month charity programme being organised by Charlie and Red Squirrel Property Shop, combining endurance events with community fundraising and participation.
Over the coming year, Charlie, members of the Red Squirrel team, along with friends, clients and supporters, will take part in a series of physical challenges, including a 15km Tough Mudder in September, the ascent of Bobotov Kuk – the highest mountain in Montenegro – in June, Walk the Wight, and the Aconcagua summit attempt scheduled for 10th January 2027. Further challenges are expected to be added as the programme develops.
Rather than focusing on a single fundraising event, the initiative aims to build sustained momentum across the year and encourage involvement at all levels.
Charlie added:
“This isn’t a one-off gesture. Supporting the local community has always been part of what we do at Red Squirrel, from backing local causes to showing up when it matters. We want to bring people with us, whether that’s walking, running, climbing, fundraising, or simply supporting from the sidelines.”
At least 80 per cent of all funds raised through the programme will be donated directly to Mountbatten Isle of Wight, supporting its hospice services for individuals and families across the Island. The remaining funds will be allocated transparently, with supporters invited to take part in a public poll at the end of the campaign to help decide where the balance is donated.
Charlie hopes the challenge programme will inspire others to get involved, whether by joining an event, sponsoring participants or helping spread awareness.
Charlie continued:
“This is about responsibility and action. Doing something difficult, together, and turning that effort into real support for people who need it in our community.”
Further updates on the challenges, fundraising progress and ways to get involved will be shared over the coming months.
To support the challenge and donate, visit.
Very commendable but I will donate direct to the hospice as usual cutting out the middle men.
Middle men take the majority, so good choice.
Fyi I pay for the whole “adventure” and the whole balance goes to charity. As has ANY of my previous charity work.
I am also a trustee of Mountbatten, so its so important for me to raise as many funds as possible and i would appreciate your support even if just sharing and signing. Thank you for your continued support of Mountbatten
BUT PLEASE sign and share Zoe’s law petition
Agree, I am not funding someones “adventure”.(
Fyi I pay for the whole “adventure” and the whole balance goes to charity. As has ANY of my previous charity work.
I am also a trustee of Mountbatten, so its so important for me to raise as many funds as possible and i would appreciate your support even if just sharing and signing. Thank you for your continued support of Mountbatten
BUT PLEASE sign and share Zoe’s law petition
Fyi I pay for the whole “adventure” and the whole balance goes to charity. As has ANY of my previous charity work.
I am also a trustee of mountbatten, so its so important for me to raise as many funds as possible and i would appreciate your support even if just sharing and signing. Thank you for your continued support of Mountbatten
BUT PLEASE sign and share Zoe’s law petition
Well done and good luck Charlie.