By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A MAN who was cast onto the education and jobs scrapheap because of a hidden disability has urged Geelong to “look on the bright side” as it faces its employment challenges.
Now an international business entrepreneur and motivational speaker, Graham Webb addressed a number of sold-out events around Geelong this week.
“Geelong has so much going for it – there are so many different things going on,” Mr Webb enthused.
“Sometimes it takes someone from somewhere else to come along and say it. Places like Geelong sometimes need to be reminded of it.
“Geelong is like a see-saw – it might be dipping at the moment but the other end is rising.”
Mr Webb said he was raised in a government-subsidised flat with little money as an undiagnosed spina bifida sufferer.
The congenital condition affects the spinal nervous system, creating complications such as incontinence and difficulties walking and learning.
He was unaware of his illness before dropping out of school at 15.
Mr Webb was an apprentice barber before a role in sales led to him become Britain’s top rice pudding salesman.
He later developed a range of internationally successful hair-care products, which he eventually sold to Wella.
Mr Webb received an MBE for services to business and charity in 2005.
“Positive thinkers realise the grass is greener under your own feet – you just need to look down,” he said.
