Nirmal “Nims” Purja is a world-renowned high-altitude mountaineer, former elite soldier, and captivating high-performance speaker. Known for pushing the limits of human potential, he inspires global audiences with stories of endurance, leadership, and purpose. His talks are a rare blend of military precision, extreme adventure, and human connection, leaving listeners not only moved but motivated to raise their own standards. With a presence that commands attention and a mindset rooted in resilience, Nims speaks powerfully on topics such as peak performance, risk, teamwork, and mindset — always reminding his audience that nothing is impossible.
Born in Nepal and raised in modest surroundings, Nims forged a path few would dare to follow. He began his military career with the Brigade of Gurkhas before becoming the first Gurkha to join the UK’s elite Special Boat Service (SBS). His journey from the frontline of military operations to the summits of the world’s highest mountains is a story of grit, vision, and unstoppable belief. While serving, he discovered mountaineering, and soon left the military to pursue an extraordinary calling — proving that the limits we perceive are often self-imposed.
In 2019, Nims led Project Possible, climbing all 14 of the world’s 8,000-metre peaks in just 6 months and 6 days, smashing the previous record of nearly eight years. His leadership during the mission included high-risk rescues and logistical feats at altitudes where most can barely survive. In 2021, he joined a team to complete the first winter ascent of K2, one of the most dangerous climbs on Earth — and did so without supplemental oxygen. His story reached millions through the critically acclaimed Netflix documentary 14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible, and he continues to elevate Nepalese climbers through his company, Elite Himalayan Adventures.
Nims is hired by organisations and event hosts looking for a speaker who embodies the pinnacle of discipline, mental toughness, and inspiration. His message lands with CEOs, athletes, teams, and change-makers alike — those who want to overcome fear, lead with courage, and achieve the extraordinary. Whether on stage or on screen, Nims’ ability to connect, challenge, and ignite belief makes him a standout voice in the world of performance and human potential.
Nirmal ‘Nims’ Purja is regularly booked to engage audiences at events, read their latest feedback below:
“Changing the entire concept of what’s possible. A beautiful account of the most testing missions. Nims’s ability to control his mind and achieve his goal shows us all how we can achieve our own goals. Nims also puts into perspective how SMALL many of our goals are… What Nims has done has truly been, one great leap for mankind.”
“All went well and we would highly recommend Nims as a speaker for your other clients.”
The High-Performance Speakers Agency is the UK’s leading bureau for teamwork, leadership, and marginal gains speakers. We hire speakers for corporate conferences and events across the world and cater to both in-person occasions and online webinars. Our roster includes sportspeople, business leaders, adventurers and more, to ensure audiences of all industries receive tailored, impactful advice on optimised performance.