Nic Natainui

AFL Legend | Cultural Ambassador | Inspirational Voice

Born on May 4, 1990, Nicholas “Nic Nat” Naitanui is one of the most iconic figures in modern Australian Rules Football. Drafted at pick #2 in the 2008 AFL Draft by West Coast Eagles, Nic’s rise from junior football in Midvale, WA to AFL superstardom has been marked by extraordinary athleticism, resilience, and community leadership.

Standing at 202cm and bringing a powerful presence as a ruckman, Nic has earned multiple honours including three All-Australian selections (2012, 2020, 2021), back-to-back John Worsfold Medals in 2020 & 2021, and Mark of the Year (2015). In August 2023 he announced his retirement, capping a storied career with 213 AFL games.

Off-Field & Community Leadership

Nic is deeply engaged beyond the footy field:

He has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for World Vision Australia, using his platform to support inclusion, diversity and equality.
He is the author of children’s books (e.g. Little Nic’s Big Day), which celebrate his Fiji heritage and encourage young people to embrace their uniqueness.
Nic has spoken publicly about mental health, cultural identity, and standing up against racism—earning respect for his honest reflections on being a role model, especially for young people from diverse backgrounds.

Nic combines his elite sporting experience, personal story, and community values to bring authenticity, inspiration, and powerful messages to audiences. Whether speaking to schools, corporate groups, or community organisations, his story resonates across sport, identity, resilience, and leadership.

1. Rising Above – Resilience On and Off the Field

Nic shares his journey from humble beginnings in Western Australia to becoming one of the AFL’s most admired players. He reflects on overcoming injuries, setbacks, and public expectations — and what it takes to stay grounded through success and adversity.

2. Diversity, Culture & Belonging

As a proud Fijian-Australian and one of the most recognisable multicultural figures in sport, Nic explores themes of cultural identity, representation, and inclusion. He inspires audiences to embrace diversity, challenge stereotypes, and create spaces where everyone feels they belong.

3. Leadership Through Authenticity

Nic discusses what true leadership means — leading by example, staying humble, and staying true to one’s values. He shares lessons from the locker room that translate powerfully into business, education, and community life.

4. Mental Health & Men’s Wellbeing

Drawing on personal experience and his advocacy work, Nic opens up about mental health in elite sport and everyday life. He encourages honest conversations about pressure, masculinity, and balance.

5. Community, Purpose & Giving Back

A strong advocate for social good, Nic talks about his work with World Vision and the importance of purpose beyond career success — motivating audiences to use their own platforms for positive impact.

6. Teamwork & Culture – Lessons from the AFL

Nic shares insights from over a decade at the elite level — what makes a great team, how culture drives success, and how collaboration and trust can turn good teams into great ones.

7. Inspiring the Next Generation

Tailored for schools and youth audiences, Nic inspires young people to dream big, work hard, and be proud of who they are — reminding them that where you start doesn’t define where you can go.

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