More about Philip Patston
“I have noticed even people who claim everything is predestined, and that we can do nothing to change it, look before they cross the road.” – Stephen Hawking
On this page:
Social innovation | Speaking and facilitation | Entertainment | Videos
Social innovation
Philip is a NZ Social Entrepreneur Fellow, an Alumni of Art Regional Trust’s Art Venture programme for creative entrepreneurs and runs a consulting business and social profit enterprise. Several years ago, Philip began to consider alternative ways to conceive social difference. He published a paper on functional diversity in the international journal of Disability and Rehabilitation in 2007, and spoke about functional and experiential diversity at the Skoll Forum on Social Entrepreneurship at Oxford University in 2008. He now aims to promote a new understanding of diversity and a reinvention of social structure using different thought patterns, new language and constructive behaviour, reframing the distinction between normal and abnormal as common and unique.
Photo: Doublescoop
Speaking and facilitation
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Philip Patston’s unique and engaging story makes him an outstanding and entertaining speaker – with insights about experience and diversity that are both profound and funny. He inspires, engages, moves and challenges, offering a unique solution for occasions where a diverse and intelligent spin will add value.
- “Fairly wicked…” – Russell Brown, Hard News
As a compere/MC Philip captures your audience’s attention first time, every time with an uniquely commanding presence. With keen wit and inspiring leadership he makes sure things run smoothly, your goals are met and everyone remembers your event.
- “Thank you fronting last night and introducing your humour and fun into the proceedings!” – Elizabeth Finn, Education Manager, Health and Disability Commissioner’s Office
Philip facilitates groups of all sizes in many situations, including community, business, government and education settings. Using structure, creativity, efficient time management and a well-honed understanding of group dynamics, he ensures you get what you need done efficiently and effectively, with plenty of laughs and insight along the way.
Need team building? Philip works with your team, organisation or community group to solve problems, set goals, realise potential and facilitate personal and social change. He began his career as a counsellor and has a knack for working with groups to build relationships and solve problems. Philip also provides the added value of modelling diversity and enabling your team to work collaboratively and inclusively to maximum effect.
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Entertainment
Philip is most well-known for his live and broadcast work, particularly on stand-up comedy TV show Pulp Comedy (1997-2003), and vaguely remembered for a brief heterosexual role on soap opera Shortland Street (1999). He was named inaugural “Queer of the Year” by television show Queer Nation and awarded a Billy T James Award for commitment and contribution to the comedy industry by the NZ Comedy Trust. In June 2009 he decided to end his 15-year stand-up comedy career, after winning awards, making television appearances and performing around the world. He now offers a unique style of cabaret performance combining comedy with music and spoken word.
Videos
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