Johann Pieris is a Sri Lankan adventurer, mountaineer, and hairstylist renowned for his remarkable journey to the summit of Mount Everest. He first captured the nation’s attention in 2016 when he, alongside Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala, became part of the first Sri Lankan team to attempt to conquer Everest. Despite not succeeding in his initial attempt, Peries’ perseverance and determination saw him reach the summit in 2018, solidifying his legacy in Sri Lankan history.
Early Career and Background
Johann Peries began his career as an artist and singer before transitioning to hairstyling in 1993. His talent and dedication quickly established him as one of the most sought-after hairstylists in Sri Lanka. Today, he owns and operates three salons, two located in Colombo and one in London, catering to a diverse clientele with his unique flair and expertise.
Peries’ passion for adventure was evident from a young age. He developed an interest in rock climbing, often exploring the Knuckles Mountain Range with his father. His adventurous spirit led him to his first significant exploration outside Sri Lanka in 2005, where he ventured to the Thai-Burmese border. By 2010, he had reached the Everest Base Camp, setting the stage for his future endeavors.
Collaboration with Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala
In 2011, Peries teamed up with Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala, and the duo embarked on several successful expeditions. Their notable achievements included summiting Adam’s Peak and Island Peak in 2012, and Mount Kilimanjaro in 2014. Their shared passion for mountaineering culminated in their historic attempt to summit Mount Everest in 2016.
The 2016 Everest Expedition
The preparation for their Everest expedition began in 2014, involving rigorous training activities such as swimming and climbing. In April 2016, Peries and Kuru-Utumpala announced their ambitious plan to climb Everest, forming the Sri Lankan Everest Expedition campaign. With the support of International Mountain Guides, who provided essential logistical and Sherpa support, the expedition cost approximately $136,000.
Despite the well-coordinated effort, Peries’ attempt was thwarted just 400 meters from the summit due to an oxygen tank failure. However, Kuru-Utumpala reached the summit at 5:03 AM on May 21, 2016, becoming the first Sri Lankan to achieve this remarkable feat. Peries reached an impressive height of 8,400 meters (27,600 feet), beyond Camp IV, showcasing his extraordinary resilience and determination.
The Successful 2018 Summit
Undeterred by his previous setback, Peries embarked on a second attempt to summit Everest in 2018, this time without his long-time collaborator, Kuru-Utumpala. He launched the “Climb Everest with Johann” campaign, raising $60,000 through online fundraising efforts to cover the expedition costs.
On May 22, 2018, Peries reached the summit of Mount Everest at approximately 5:55 AM, supported by a team of 13 members, including eight Nepalese Sherpas, two Americans, one South African, and one Canadian. This achievement made him the first Sri Lankan man to summit Everest and only the second Sri Lankan overall to do so.
Legacy and Impact
Johann Peries’ journey to the top of Mount Everest is a testament to his indomitable spirit and unwavering determination. His accomplishments have not only etched his name in the annals of Sri Lankan history but also inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may face. Peries continues to be a prominent figure in both the hairstyling and mountaineering communities, symbolizing the heights that can be reached with perseverance and passion.
