The Magic of Resilience: Angus Baskerville’s Journey to Self-Acceptance and Advocacy
Anna first met Angus at Autism’s got Talent many years ago when he performed at the Mermaid Theatre.
It has been a pleasure to watch Angus grow in confidence and create a path for himself within the world of magic. We are so happy that he has joined the Anna Kennedy Online family to help us forge ahead raising awareness and acceptance.
Angus Baskerville’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and the incredible power of magic. A professional magician, mind reader, and motivational speaker, Angus has turned his personal challenges into a driving force for both personal success and a powerful message of hope for others. He is also a passionate advocate for autism awareness, proudly serving as a charity champion for Anna Kennedy Online, an autism charity that provides resources, support, and advocacy for the autistic community.
Angus was diagnosed with both autism and ADHD at the age of 15, following years of struggling with undiagnosed conditions. His early years in South Africa were marked by misunderstanding and isolation, as he spent 12 years without a clear diagnosis. In school, he was labeled as “the naughty child,” “the freak,” and “the stupid one.” This harsh treatment led to severe bullying that pushed him down a dark and lonely path. Without the right understanding or support, Angus was expelled from three schools, eventually attending 13 different institutions throughout his childhood.
But the turning point came when Angus returned to the UK at the age of 15 and was diagnosed. For the first time, there was a sense of clarity. With the diagnosis in hand, Angus was able to access the funding and support that helped him navigate school life. This assistance, though long overdue, allowed him to complete his education and take his first steps toward a brighter future. However, it wasn’t until two years later, at the age of 17, just before he began sixth form, that Angus found the one thing that would change his life forever: magic.
Before discovering magic, Angus struggled with socializing, had no friends, and battled crippling low self-esteem. He often felt overwhelmed by the world around him. But magic offered him something he hadn’t found elsewhere: a sense of focus, patience, and, perhaps most importantly, confidence. Magic taught him how to channel his energy into something positive and productive. It gave him a skill that was both unique and impressive, and it helped him connect with others in a way he had never been able to before.
“I realized that magic wasn’t just about tricks,” Angus explains in his motivational talks. “It was about resilience, concentration, and self-belief. It gave me the tools to improve my self-esteem and, for the first time, make real connections with others.” With his newfound passion, Angus began performing his magic at school, eventually winning the school’s talent contest. This victory marked a turning point, and he went on to enjoy his final two years of school, an experience he had never thought possible.
Fast forward to nearly three years ago, and Angus made a life-changing decision. He left a job where he felt rejected and unappreciated, choosing instead to pursue his passion for magic full-time. Today, he runs a successful business as a magician, performing at weddings, corporate events, private parties, and high-profile functions across the UK. He has even taken his one-man show on tour, wowing audiences at major theatres, including appearances on ITV Central News. But Angus’s journey isn’t just about magic. It’s about resilience, advocacy, and using his voice to bring awareness to autism and ADHD. He shares his story with audiences, hoping to inspire others who feel trapped by their own struggles. He has been an unwavering advocate for those with autism, constantly speaking out about the importance of acceptance, understanding, and support.
This summer, Angus is set to return to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, bringing his one-man show to the stage once again. In addition, he’s preparing to publish his first book, which will delve deeper into his experiences and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
Angus’s favourite quote, which he often shares in his talks, perfectly encapsulates his message: “When it comes to achieving your goals, you have to hit rock bottom first. The best part of hitting rock bottom is that there’s only one way to go from there, and that’s up.” His journey is one of perseverance and never giving up. Through his own experiences, he has learned to see the light at the end of the tunnel, no matter how dark it may seem.
Another quote that deeply resonates with Angus comes from Stephen Shore, an autism advocate: “Autism is not a problem to be solved; it’s a perspective to be valued.” Angus’s story is a testament to this powerful perspective — one that encourages individuals to embrace their differences, understand their unique strengths, and move forward with confidence. He also often ends his talks with a quote from Winnie the Pooh that has become his guiding mantra: “You’re braver than you believe, you’re stronger than you seem, you’re smarter than you think.”
Angus Baskerville’s journey from a bullied child to a successful magician and advocate.
