Phil Borges

2003 Honoree / Humanitarian Award

For over twenty-five years Phil Borges has been documenting indigenous and tribal cultures, striving to create an understanding of the challenges they face. His work is exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide and his award winning books, which have been published in four languages, include Tibetan Portrait; Enduring Spirit; Women Empowered and Tibet: Culture on the Edge.

Phil’s project Stirring the Fire has produced several short documentaries, a book and an exhibition highlighting some of the extraordinary women worldwide who are breaking through gender barriers and conventions in order to enhance the well being of their communities.

Phil’s Documentary, CRAZYWISE reveals a paradigm shift that’s changing the way Western culture defines and treats “mental illness”. The film highlights a survivor-led movement demanding more choices from a mental health care system in crisis.

Phil has hosted television documentaries on indigenous cultures for Discovery and National Geographic channels. An experienced lecturer, Phil regularly presents at universities, teaches workshops, and has spoken at multiple TED events; including TED in 2007, TEDxRainier in 2012 and TEDxUMKC in 2013 and TEDxSan Juan Island in 2015.

Purchase an iconic image by Phil Borges through Lucie Editions here.