Known for his powerful and transformative talks, Shaun draws from his own journey to challenge misconceptions and foster a greater understanding of mental health issues. As he often states, “OCD was the worst thing to happen to me, and I am determined to be the worst thing to happen to OCD.”
Shaun’s Journey: From Modelling to Mental Health Advocacy
Before dedicating himself entirely to mental health advocacy, Shaun had a successful career as a commercial model, working with high-profile brands like Uber, Peloton, John Lewis, and Walkers. However, behind the glamour of the modelling industry lay personal struggles with the pressures of maintaining an unrealistic body image. These challenges are often overlooked in conversations about men’s mental health, but Shaun’s experiences have profoundly shaped his mission to redefine masculinity and promote healthier body image ideals.
Shaun’s battle with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has also been a significant part of his narrative. Diagnosed with OCD at the age of 27, Shaun transformed his personal challenges into a source of inspiration for others. His upcoming book aims to delve deeper into the misconceptions surrounding OCD and broader mental health issues, particularly within the Black community. Shaun hopes to illuminate the intersections of race, masculinity, and mental health through candid storytelling, fostering a more inclusive dialogue.
Shaun Flores: A Voice for Change
Shaun’s work is not limited to his personal journey; he actively contributes to various organisations and initiatives that promote mental health awareness, diversity, and inclusion. His collaborations with notable clients such as First Rate Exchange Services, Panasonic, and Men’s Health UK showcase his commitment to driving change in diverse settings.
In addition to his speaking engagements, Shaun has partnered with charities like MIND and CALM, delivering keynote speeches, workshops, and consultations to create awareness and promote understanding. His voice resonates across various platforms, significantly impacting those who engage with his content.
TEDx Talks: Inspiring Audiences
Shaun is also a highly regarded TED speaker, having delivered impactful talks addressing our time’s pressing issues. His first TEDx talk, “The Failures of Multiculturalism,” focused on the education system’s shortcomings in fostering genuine inclusivity. In his subsequent talk, “The Straitjacket of Masculinity,” Shaun explored the complexities of masculinity and its effects on male mental health. Both talks are available for viewing and have garnered significant attention for their depth and relevance.
Currently, Shaun is preparing to complete a third TED talk focused on psychedelics and their potential role in a mental health revolution. This upcoming talk reflects Shaun’s dedication to exploring innovative approaches to mental health care and encouraging open discussions about topics often considered taboo.
Engaging Keynote Talks
Shaun offers a range of keynote talks designed to engage, challenge, and inspire audiences. Here are four of his most notable presentations:
“Reframing Privilege: Challenging the Narratives That Divide Us”
This talk breaks free from the echo chamber that often surrounds discussions of privilege. Shaun examines privilege through social justice and conservative lenses, encouraging audiences to rethink their views on power and opportunity.
“Beneath the Surface: Unmasking the Hidden Realities of Anxiety and Depression”
In a world that never stops, anxiety and depression often thrive unseen. This presentation goes beyond clichés, offering a raw, authentic exploration of what it means to live with these conditions. Shaun shares his experiences, discusses modern life’s paradoxes, and offers unconventional strategies for managing mental health.
“A Hunter in a Farmer’s World: The ADHD Story by Shaun Flores”
Delving into the evolutionary theory behind ADHD, this talk challenges common misconceptions and discusses how traits once essential for survival are now seen as disadvantages. Shaun highlights how ADHD can be harnessed as a superpower rather than a hindrance.
“Redemption Culture, Not Cancel Culture: Calling People In, Not Calling Them Out”
In an era marked by deep divisions, Shaun advocates for a shift from cancel culture to a culture of redemption. By exploring the dangers of thought policing and the power of open dialogue, he encourages audiences to foster inclusivity and understanding.
These talks are not just lectures; they are transformative experiences designed to provoke thought and inspire change. They resonate across various settings, from corporate events and educational institutions to social justice forums.
The Importance of Booking Shaun Flores
Booking Shaun Flores for your next event is an opportunity to bring meaningful conversations about mental health and diversity to the forefront. His insights and personal narratives provide a unique perspective that challenges audiences to think critically about societal norms and their impact on mental health.