IN A story similar to that of King George VI a university student reduced people to tears with a speech many thought he would never be able to make.

Robert Perry had been repeatedly told he would struggle to achieve in life because of his autism.

However after receiving professional mentoring through the University of Brighton, he was able to speak to more than 40 strangers about his condition.

Mr Perry, 27, a first year sociology and social policy student, said: “At first it was nerve-wracking to talk in front of that many people but I realised that I can do this.

“I feel very proud of myself. Since taking part I’ve realised I’m better at communicating than I thought I was.”

King George VI was different in that he suffered with a debilitating nervous stammer which he battled against with the help of a speech therapist, as told in the film The King’s Speech, starring Colin Firth.

Mr Perry was inspired to take part in the university’s Momentum mentoring scheme because he wanted to boost his confidence and become more involved in the gay community in Brighton. He described his mentor, Andy McKenzie from American Express, as “amazing”.

Mr Perry said: “He’s my confidant and has helped me work through issues like people not understanding me and the death of my dad.

“He’s helped me to get a job with the LGBT switchboard that I can’t wait to start.”

Mr McKenzie said: “I was very surprised to hear Robert had been asked to give a speech and was delighted he accepted the challenge.

“When I first met him, he couldn’t make eye contact with me.

“The initial meeting was quite difficult so I decided to take Robert out of his comfort zone and whenever we met, I would choose a different venue to ensure he didn’t get comfortable in one place.”

Mr McKenzie organised a mock interview and presentation for Mr Perry at American Express, which he said the student excelled at.

He said: “It was great to see this once shy young man change into the confident person he is now.

“I would love to say how I managed to change Robert from being shy to confident, but the hard work was all really down to him.”

The university honoured the achievements of the students who took part in this year’s Momentum mentoring scheme with a celebration at its Moulsecoomb campus.

The Momentum scheme is aimed at black and minority ethnic or disabled students as well as those lacking in confidence.

This year it has supported a total of 80 people.