Viyana’s inspiring vision for environment

By Zanita Careem

Growing up, she used to be a nerdy and camera sky kid. Today she is Miss Sri Lanka for Miss Earth 2024 and will represent Sri Lanka at the pageant in Vietnam. Viyana Pietersz shares with the ‘Sunday Island’ on what it would mean to win the title and the cause close to her heart.

Viyana Pietersz who clinched the coveted Miss Sri Lanka for Miss Earth title at a glittering pageant held at Water’s Edge, exude grace and radiance. Sporting a casual ensemble, and a warm smile, she effortlessly and proudly spoke of her mixed heritage, attributing her striking beauty and unwavering character to her parents, her father is a Burgher and mother, a Sinhalese.

Her aversion to falsehoods and her commitment to positivity have remained steadfast thoughout her life career. Her transformative journey to stardom and beauty began at the tender age, but very soon she was on the path to becoming a rising star under the guidance of her parents especially her mother, a beautician by profession.

Viyana loved her natural charisma and impeccable silhouette. She reminisces about her debut of modelling experience while at school in minor pageants and commercial advertising campaigns.

However after claiming the title of Miss Sri Lanka for Miss Earth, she has already captured the attention of many. Her fate was decided by a distinguished panel of judges at the event at Waters’s edge.Viyana’s avant-grade fashion statements on the night of the competition, at Water’s Edge, dressed in a beautiful silhouette, designed by well known designer Kanishka Sangabo Dias made a standout contender from among the rest of the contestants. Among the many beautiful contestants, she won the title of Miss Sri Lanka for Miss Earth, She recalls the moments of her triump, when she sensed that victory was within her grasp. During the Q and A segment, to which she responded eloquently, emphasising the importance of safeguarding the environment and Mother Nature. Her genuine and heartfelt answers resonated with her true character as someone not seeking fame but embracing the authencity of the moment.

Her humility and down- to-earth persona have remained unchanged despite her remarkable life experiences. For Viyana beauty is not confined to physical attributes; it also emcompasses the qualities of one’s soul, intelligence, knowledge and good manners. Most of all she always believes one should protect the environment and value nature.She loves her freedom and take pleasure in simple habits like home-cooked food, local vegetables and fruits. While she keeps abreast with contemporary fashion trends. Her timeless fashion choices reflect her personal style and appreciation for beauty. She affirms that beauty may initially attract, but it is one’s soul, intelligence knowledge and manners that truly captivate others. Her journey has been remarkable, marked by authencity and a commitment to her true self.

Q : What is your vision as Miss Earth Sri Lankan 2023?

A: I am want to become an environmental ambassador on the global stage. During my childhood, I was always fascinated with nature around me. I am lucky to be born a Sri Lankan sorrounded by the beautiful ocean and trees around us. I feel I have a strong bond towards nature and my focus in life is act as a voice to mother nature.

Q : You love dancing? Can you tell us about journey in dancing ?

My mother used to say that I danced before I crawled. I loved Kandyan and low country forms of dancing but had a strong bond towards Kathak dancing , the traditional form of dancing as well and I obtained the title of ‘Vishard’ from a University in India . I am currently following a course in performing arts at the University of the Visual and performing Arts. Dance rhythms are always in my soul. I also learnt drumming at the age of 12. Today I am a traditional dancer.

Q: How are you preparing for the international pageant.

A: Representing Sri Lanka at Miss Earth pageant is a huge honour and I am immensely, grateful for the opportunity.My preparation has been focused on grooming, walking and most importantly my beauty routines. Every day my life is filled with new learnings and I enjoy myself in the hectic process.

Miss Sri Lanka for Miss Earth

Viyana”outfit for the event at Waters Edge designer – Kanishka Sangabo Dias

Makeup – Lanka Fernando

Chief Advisor – Chandimal Jayasinghe

Official model Choreographer – Rukmal Senanayake

Official Advocacy trainer – Tharaka Gurukanda

National costume for the international pageant in Vietnam- made from recycled products and wood, designed by Kanishka sangabo dias