Phillip Khan-Panni was born in Hong Kong, taken into mainland China, and kidnapped by his mother when his parents split up. Taken to India, he was placed in a Himalayan boarding school at the age of 3. After completing his 3-year university course in just over 2 years, he set sail for England. Working in sales, he set a number of records, then took up public speaking, going on to represent Britain and Ireland in the World Championships three times, and ranking No.2 in the world. He has published seven business books and one of poetry, and works as a copywriter and trainer in communication skills.