Peter Munday left school at the age of 14 years, nine months.
To clarify his departure from school, he was asked to leave Marist College.
To say he lacked focus is an understatement. In Peter’s own words, he had trouble concentrating and connecting with the education system. He was also bullied because he struggled with the basics.
In his early 20s it became clearer as to why he had difficulty with basic concepts during his short-lived school life. At this time he was diagnosed with dyslexia. Suddenly everything that had occurred up to that time became a great deal clearer.
Prior to diagnosis Peter knew the pathway to success was hard work. There were stints in a jeans shop, Telstra, the New Star Chinese restaurant in Griffith, and an ill-fated venture, involving a take away van in Braddon.
It took him three years to pay back the $35,000 lost on the Braddon experiment. He worked 18 hours a day to see that the money was repaid.
He learned a lot about himself and business throughout those three long years.
His life changing moment came when he met Michael Cornock from Lennock Motors. Peter joined Lennock at 22 years of age, working his way to sales manager.
Peter says he remembers one occasion when Michael was given a rousing reception as he walked into a car auction. Peter says from that moment on, he wanted to be respected like that man. As it turns out, Peter says Michael remains a major influence in his life.
Peter’s passion for helping others was ignited, primarily, during those early days at Lennock Motors through Michael’s mentorship.
Over the past 33 years Peter has gone on to mentor over 400 young men and women seeking guidance. He has employed many. He has offered advice on mental health, general support and provided financial guidance. Many of those seeking his help have gone on to become long-term employees, in an industry characterised by constant employee movement.
Peter says it was those early life experiences where he was bullied and unsettled that drove his passion to help young people navigate through what can appear to be near-impossible life issues.
He is a positive example of what can be achieved through mentorship.
His generosity doesn’t stop with advice and guidance. Peter has raised millions of dollars for charity in Canberra, particularly charities addressing adolescent mental health.
I have spoken to many parents who have sought out Peter when all else has failed in their efforts to get their children focused on a pathway with a future. Needless to say he has gone on to be a major influence. Peter says watching people who have to come to him in their youth go on to make something of themselves, makes it incredibly worthwhile.
Peter demonstrates that through hard work, responsible guidance and a strong social ethic, that change can be made, even when the odds seem to be stacked against you.
Original Article published by Tim Gavel on the RiotACT.
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