Sonny Bill Williams has spoken of the “honour” of being named the new professional chancellor of Albukhary International University (AIU) after the New Zealand rugby great appeared at a graduation ceremony on Wednesday.
The All Blacks legend, long known for his inspiring work championing social equality and humanitarian causes, revealed in November that he was ready to begin a new step in his career.
AIU is a Malaysia-based private university that has over 1,000 students enrolled in its courses and has three specialist schools teaching Business and Social Sciences, Education and Human Sciences and its School of Computing and Informatics.
He was seen arriving at the university, based in Malaysia, before putting on an academic robe. Williams also appeared to be formally announced as Pro-Chancellor of the University during a ceremony and was later seen giving a talk to students at the university.
The 39-year-old, who played for the Bulldogs and Roosters before switching codes to join Toulon in France, comes from humble beginnings and grew up in Auckland but left school when he was 14.
He would later obtain a Bachelor of Applied Management (Sports Management) and spoke about how he participated in a graduation ceremony at the university.
Sonny Bill Williams has been appointed as the new chancellor of Albukhary International University
The NRL and union leader posted a video of himself online appearing at a convocation ceremony.
Williams spoke of how honored he felt to have been appointed to the new position and was also seen giving a speech to students at the educational institution.
“It has been an incredible journey for me to accept the role of Pro-Chancellor of Albukhary International University,” Williams wrote on his X account.
‘Today’s convocation ceremony showed me the true essence of what the university is about: uplifting students from disadvantaged backgrounds and giving them an opportunity at a very critical time in their lives through higher education.
‘These students, with the blessing of the Almighty, will become leaders of the future and role models for the society.
‘I had the honor of awarding each and every one of the 218 graduating students and I am excited to see them grow in the society of the future we leave behind.
As part of his new role, the University says Williams will work to help AIU achieve its mission of fostering well-rounded graduates to achieve their goals and become well-rounded citizens.
Williams will work as an advisor to establish new community outreach initiatives and programs in the future.
In a statement released in November, AIU wrote: “His (Williams’) participation will enhance the university’s vision of fostering a transformative educational environment where values-driven leadership meets academic excellence.”
“Beyond advising key initiatives such as student engagement and community outreach programs, his presence at AIU will inspire students to strive for excellence in both their personal and professional journeys.”
Williams had previously spoken of his pride at receiving the new position in November. You will help advise on key initiatives at the university and help students strive for excellence.
The rugby and boxing star made 58 appearances for New Zealand between 2010 and 2019.
Williams has also reflected on his excitement for the new role.
“For someone who left school at 14 and had the opportunity to change his life through sport, this appointment is a proud privilege to be part of a university that does the same through education,” Williams wrote in x.
‘In addition to changing my family’s situation, I was also able to obtain a university degree.
‘Special thanks to the founder of Albukhary International University, Syed Mokhtar Albukhary, the Board of Governors and the entire AIU community.
‘Lastly, to the students, I look forward to meeting and speaking with all of you next month on the 10th. God bless you!’
During his professional rugby career, Williams made 58 international appearances for the All Blacks and is considered one of the most creative centers to have played rugby.
Williams is one of the most decorated stars to have played both codes of rugby. He would claim premiership in the NRL in 2004 with the Bulldogs before winning the NRL with the Roosters.
After jumping into the union, he would win the Super Rugby title with the Chiefs, several Bledisloe Cups with New Zealand and two Rugby World Cups.
He would later enter boxing and reigned as New Zealand Professional Boxing Association Heavyweight Champion and WBA International Heavyweight Champion for a period.