Banjo Bannon

Terence 'Banjo' Bannon, born in Newry, Northern Ireland, was destined to be a survivor from the moment he entered the world with the umbilical cord wrapped tightly around his neck. Growing up through the troubles Banjo's life was deeply impacted by the tragic loss of a close friend during his teenage years. This pivotal moment cemented his resolve to pursue a life of adventure and achievement.

 At fourteen, Banjo discovered his passion for the mountains, finding solace in their solitude and deriving strength and confidence from his time in the wild. His dreams soon extended to conquering the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest. In 2003, he became the second person from Northern Ireland to reach Everest's summit, a feat he achieved without assistance via the treacherous North Face. 

Banjo's life has been marked by both triumph and tragedy. He has lost nearly ten climbing companions in accidents over the years and faced numerous personal setbacks. Yet, these experiences have honed his resilience and deepened his understanding of the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity. His journey has taught him the importance of mental toughness and the value of sharing his story to help others navigate their own challenges.

As part of Men Mind Mountains, Banjo will share his experiences, walking and talking about how his life in the mountains has shaped his mind and body. His story is a testament to the power of resilience in the face of adversity, offering valuable insights into men's mental health and the importance of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.