Phil Benson Speaker | Enterprise & PHSCE & Careers

Phil Benson

A trailblazer for diversity & inclusion; an inspiration in the world of entrepreneurship and technology.

Phil Benson is an inspirational, award-winning serial entrepreneur. A university graduate, Phil started his journey founding a smoothie bar business. From the humble beginnings, trading from a mobile cart, to moving on to diversify his business interests into retail, education, the creative industry and tech.

Phil has been there and done it, and it’s all part of his interesting story to showcase the realities, (ups and downs) of starting and running a business from scratch. With a keen interest in the power of technology and advocate for business with positive social impact, Phil Co-Founded UK Black Tech (UKBT), working with some of the biggest names in technology (Meta, Google Microsoft, to name a few). UKBT aims to encourage greater representation with the aim of a fairer and more productive & innovative society for all.

With appearances on national, and local, radio including, BBC Money Programme, and features in the national press like The Times, Phil will motivate those who have the drive to be truly successful, regardless of their age or background.

Testimonials from Teachers

"Phil Benson and the Xing journey is superb. We have booked the Xing roadshow for 3 years now and our students have thoroughly enjoyed it. Phil really connects with the students whilst getting across the message of running a business along with academic study. Phil is inspirational, motivational and all round top guy. Book him and you will not be disappointed!"

– Stephen Logan, Careers & Aim Higher Coordinator at Malet Lambert School Language College

"Once again the presentation from Phil was superb. Staff students and parents all commented on his manner; positivity and delivery. Students spoke directly to Phil after the ceremony many asking for advice about their own plans for the future and what advice he could offer them personally."

– Karen Athawes, Deputy Headteacher, Ercall Wood Technology College

"The students had a fantastic time and it was great the Xing team had enthusiastic young members who can inspire the students and relate to them. I found the students very engaging throughout."

– Head of Year 8, Mrs Keell

"A vibrant and engaging day. All the students enjoyed working as a team and loved creating their own smoothies. Xing were enthusiastic, supportive and engaging and I would highly recommend their work shops."

– Alison Zuill Exams/Data/HR Clerical Support

"The enterprise day went really well. I was a little concerned initially how the condensed version would work for the students and how the turnaround for the second session will be, but it was very good. In fact it probably worked better for the students that way and they were more engaged and stayed on task more. The Head of Year was also very impressed with the day and thought also that the two session worked really well."

– Alison Zuill, Exams/Data/HR Clerical Support, Aylesford School and Sixth Form College

"It was great the students really enjoyed it! His workshop was fantastic very engaging."

– Jen Fullard, New College Durham