At the age of 34, Nathan Fernandes has packed more into his life than most of us ever will, writes Phil Hill.
He has started three businesses, travels around Britain for work and has been to 45 countries.
And to boot, he has the most amazing sense of humour and the broadest of smiles.
We supposedly met up for a coffee.
When I asked what he was drinking, I was expecting him to order a cappuccino, latte or the like.
“No - a half of cider,” he replied with that mischievous smile.
Perhaps it’s a good time to reveal that Nath, as he is known to family and friends, has cerebral palsy.
He gets around in an electric wheelchair.
But that is not preventing him from leading a full and meaningful life.
When I asked if he was angry at God for being born with a disability, he laughed: “No.”
After a brief pause, he added: “I’m an atheist, like most of my friends.”
Nath was born in Yeovil, where he was educated at Preston School.
“School was okay,” he said.
“I set up a company while I was in Yeovil involving websites.
“I couldn’t get a proper job, and I didn’t want to have to rely on my parents.
“I still have the company today.”
For a time he lived in Taunton with his parents, the current town mayor and her consort, Cllr Bev Fernandes and Nick Fernandes.
Nath then went to the University of the West of England (UWE) in Bristol to read business studies.
He added: “That was good fun and I still live in Bristol.
“It’s the best place I’ve lived in. Taunton is next, and Yeovil is third.”
In 2016, Nath established another company, Dynamic Play, running parties for children of all ages.
“I really enjoyed it,” said Nath.
“I had about 10 people working for me, and it was really successful.
“But I sold it because it was becoming too much.
“I was working every weekend.”
Nath continued: “I enjoy working for myself, and I get to see places all over the country, travelling by train or bus.
“There’s a preconception people have about someone with a disability, so when I had my party business I didn’t tell them I was disabled.
“It makes me more determined to prove people wrong.
“I try to be happy and do my own workshops in schools without telling them beforehand I have a disability.
“It must be working because I get repeat business from people who were so impressed with me.
“We had about 20 bookings last year, and it’s getting more popular."
Nath loves travelling to different countries and is recently back from Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.
He has done most of Europe and China.
“I like to see how different cultures react to disabilities,” he added.
“It might surprise you, but Armenia has the best way of treating people with disabilities.
“They are very welcoming and can relate to you more.
“I can’t complain about the UK.
"It’s one of the best countries.
“I get annoyed when people complain about our country.
“We’re lucky to live in the UK.”
Referring to cerebral palsy, Nath said: “I find it interesting.
“I think about every obstacle.
“I live with my carers, but every day I go out to be on my own.
“If you’re with someone 24 hours a day, it can be claustrophobic.
“I like trains, and I’m 10 minutes from Bristol Parkway Station, where everyone is nice to me.
“I’ve been filming carnivals for 20 years and know everybody in the carnivals.
“I don’t miss things like playing football.
“But if I want to do something, I’ll find a way.
“I’m most proud of setting up and then selling my first business.
“My best friend, who I met in reception class when I was in Yeovil, lives in London and I enjoy going up to see him.
“I love dogs. I grew up around one.
“I’m proud of my mum and dad and never thought she’d become mayor.”
I can tell you Nath, the feeling is mutual - during a conversation I recently had with your mother, she was justifiably positively glowing about you and everything you do.
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