Matthew Lundall of Sydenham has transformed personal adversity into a message of resilience and hope. Living with cerebral palsy, the 48-year-old motivational speaker and former software industry professional hopes to inspire others through his experiences of independence, perseverance and human connection.

Nearly three decades ago, a Daily News article titled ‘Bright Matt Needs Computer’ helped Sydenham resident Matthew Lundall secure something that changed his life: access to a computer. Today, at 48, the motivational speaker credits that moment as an early turning point in his determination to build his own way into society.

Living with cerebral palsy, Lundall could not use a standard keyboard. Instead, he designed and customised his own adaptation, allowing him to work independently. That solution later helped him secure 13 years of employment in the software industry.

Now living independently in Sydenham, Lundall hopes to use his life experiences and passion for communication to motivate others.

“People warned me that no one was going to hand you anything on a golden platter,” he said. “You would have to work for what you want.”