I want to tell people that whatever you want to achieve in life, it can be done. I hope people feel that some of my experiences might help them in their journey too. Graham Webb

An international entrepreneur, who went from being a 15 year old school drop-out to a co-founder of a multi-million hair care company, will share his business insights at a free lecture at Canterbury Christ Church University on Friday March 7.

Graham Webb MBE, who grew up in London government-subsidised housing and overcame the challenges of congenital spina bifida, will share the personal and professional struggles and accomplishments which eventually led to his business success. The event is aimed at all members of the public, from people wanting to start up their own businesses to owners of small to medium sized enterprises or local people who want to hear an inspirational story.

It will also include a networking lunch and book signing by Graham, who wrote his autobiography 'Out of the Bottle' to help people not just with spina bifida, but also would-be entrepreneurs. In addition, there will be an opportunity to find out about other local business success stories and gain valuable access to advice and support.

Director of the University's Centre for Enterprise and Business Development, Audrey Songhurst, said: " Graham's life experiences allow him to speak with deep understanding on important topics ranging from overcoming adversity to entrepreneurship and business. His personal business insights translate well to businesses of any size and structure and his speeches are not only filled with emotion and inspiration, but also with humour and enthusiasm, allowing him to connect with a diverse audience."

"I want to tell people that whatever you want to achieve in life, it can be done. I hope people feel that some of my experiences might help them in their journey too," Graham Webb said: An instinctive entrepreneur, the teenage Graham ignored 62 job application rejections and went on to build a successful career in the UK. After rising to become chairman of the Institute of Directors (Kent) in the UK, and serving on several councils of the Confederation of British Industry.

Graham rose above the medical problems he kept secret, gained confidence, and despite doctors' expectations, became a happily married father of four children after marrying his best friend Mandy, his wife of 33 years. Graham includes, in his talks, how he managed to achieve a healthy life - work balance, involving his wife and children in supporting his ambitions.

The event will take place at the University's Old Sessions House Lecture, Longport, Canterbury, between 10am and 2pm on Friday 7th March. It has been organised by the University's Centre for Enterprise and Business Development and is part of the University's 'Embedding Enterprise Education' project which is supported by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) funded Higher Education Entrepreneurship Group (HEEG) Small Project Award.

Places are free but are limited and will be issued on a first come, first served basis. To book a place, please contact Nicola Burr on 01227 782531.