Why I cycled L’Étape du Tour de France Femmes in support of Renewable World

Written by Carolina Karlstrom (Renewable World Trustee)

When I clipped into my pedals on the start line of L’Étape du Tour de France Femmes, I knew I was in for a challenge. 117 km of mountain roads, over 3,400 meters of climbing, and the legendary Col de la Madeleine – all under low clouds that threatened rain on the more than 5,500 cyclists who had gathered in the early hours of the Saturday morning in the medieval town center of Chambery, France. But I also knew exactly why I was there: to raise awareness and funds for Renewable World, a charity working to tackle poverty and fight climate change through clean energy solutions.

I’ve always believed that climate action isn’t just about cutting emissions — it’s also about fairness. Those hit hardest by climate change are often the people who’ve done the least to cause it. And within that, women and girls bear the brunt: walking further for water, missing school, losing economic opportunities. Renewable World’s projects — from solar-powered water pumps in remote communities to clean energy for small businesses — help change that story. They give people the tools not only to adapt but to thrive.

For me, cycling is a source of joy and freedom. I love the rhythm of the pedals, the steady pull of a climb, the exhilaration of a descent. I also love a challenge — the kind that makes you dig deep and reminds you what you’re capable of. L’Étape offered both in spades.

The day itself was a test of resilience. When the rain started pouring, the chill crept in, cutting through every layer, and the Madeleine loomed ahead like a sleeping giant with its relentless climb (more than 18km, at an average slope of 8.1%!). I gave it everything — and came heartbreakingly close to the top before being stopped just 5 km from the summit. I missed the cut-off by a mere 15 minutes, a limit put in place to give the female pros a clear run up the mountain later that afternoon.

While I didn’t get to ride those final kilometres, I’m still incredibly proud of what I achieved. The atmosphere was electric — thousands of cyclists from all over the world, cheering crowds along the route, and that unspoken camaraderie that comes from pushing through together. Each turn of the crank reminded me why I was riding: every pound raised would help Renewable World bring clean energy to communities that need it most.

Reaching Saint Francois Longchamp 5 kilometers from the summit of Col de la Madelaine wasn’t just about personal achievement; it was about making a tangible difference. Missing the very top doesn’t take away from the journey, the training, the grit — or the cause.

If you’ve ever thought about taking on a big challenge — whether it’s a cycling event, a marathon, a swim, or something entirely your own — I can’t recommend it enough. Do it for yourself, yes, but also for something bigger. For me, that’s Renewable World. For you, it might be too.

Because when we combine personal passion with purpose, we can turn individual effort into collective impact. And that’s how we change the world

Feeling inspired? Get in touch and speak to one of the team about our calendar of events and the many ways you can get involved: events@renewable-world.org