He turned the hardships he endured into his own strength

John Mazmanides was born in the mountainous village of Peponia, Kozani, growing up in poverty and adversity. He was still a child when he decided to take his life into his own hands, chasing his future in Thessaloniki. Little did he know that he would end up homeless, struggling for a day’s wage and a warm bed. With resilience, grit, and a bit of luck, the young man found his way, which first led him to Germany, and then… to the distant Antipodes! Blacksmith, carpenter, artist – John took on many roles in Australia, never taking for granted what he had achieved through hard work and sacrifices.