Tawera Nikau, is one of New Zealand’s most successful professional athletes, having made his name in the highly competitive world of rugby league. He represented New Zealand in 19 tests as a forward and later led the New Zealand Māori team at the Rugby League World Cup before being inducted into the New Zealand Legends of League.

Tawera currently serves on the NZRL Board of Directors and as a selector for the New Zealand Kiwis. On top of this, he leads Team One International, a training company aimed at unleashing human potential. In recent years, Tawera has become involved in the agricultural industry, overseeing management of his Whanau’s Farms.

Tawera is now an ambassador for the Achillies Foundation which gives people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in mainstream events. In 2004, Tawera had his right leg amputated due to complications from injuries suffered in a motorbike accident, and thanks to his traits that made him a sporting champion he was able to excel in other areas. In acknowledgment of his accomplishments, Tawera has received numerous accolades. He was appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contributions to rugby league and the community and in 2011 was recognised as an Emerging Leader by the Sir Peter Blake Trust.

Tawera is a living example of someone who refuses to quit no matter how hard he is hit, and audiences find his life story both inspiring and motivational.

This session is sponsored by MAS: