Sonny Bill Williams gets a VERY surprising job that’s a world first for a footy star

Sonny Bill Williams has spoken about the ‘honor’ of being named the new Pro Chancellor of Albukhary International University (AIU) after the New Zealand rugby great appeared at a graduation ceremony on Wednesday.

The All Blacks legend, who has long been known for his inspiring work on social equality and humanitarian causes, revealed in November that he was about to embark on his new career move.

AIU is a private university based in Malaysia with over 1,000 students enrolled in its courses and has three specialized schools teaching business and social sciences, education and humanities, and the School of Computing and Informatics.

He was seen arriving at the university, which is based in Malaysia, before donning a set of academic robes. Williams also appeared to have been formally announced as the university’s Pro Chancellor at a ceremony and was later seen giving a speech to students at the university.

The 39-year-old, who played for the Bulldogs and the Roosters before switching codes to join Toulon in France, comes from humble beginnings and grew up in Auckland but dropped out of school when he was 14.

He would later gain a bachelor’s degree in Applied Management (Sports Management) and told how he took part in a university graduation ceremony.

The NRL and the unionist posted a video of himself appearing online during a convocation ceremony

Williams spoke of how honored he was to be appointed to the new role and also delivered a speech to students at the educational institution

“It has been an amazing 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 all about to uplift students from disadvantaged backgrounds and give them an opportunity through higher education at a very crucial point in their lives.

“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 presenting each of the 218 graduating students with an award and I loved seeing them grow into the future society we leave behind.

As part of his new role, the university says Williams will work to help AIU achieve its mission of empowering well-rounded graduates to achieve their goals and become well-rounded citizens.

In the future, Williams will work as a consultant to establish new initiatives and community outreach programs.

In a statement released in November, AIU wrote: “From him [Williams’] involvement will strengthen the University’s vision of fostering a transformative educational environment that brings together values-driven leadership and academic excellence.

“In addition to advising key initiatives such as student engagement programs and community outreach, 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 in taking on the new role in November. He will help provide advice on key initiatives at the University and assist students in their pursuit of excellence

The rugby and boxing star played 58 games for New Zealand between 2010 and 2019

Williams also further reflected on his excitement about the new role.

“For someone who dropped out of school at the age of 14 and had the opportunity to change my life through sport, this appointment is a proud privilege to be part of a university that does the same through education,” wrote Williams on 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 Directors and the entire AIU community.

‘Finally, I would like to tell the students that I look forward to meeting and speaking to all of you next month on the 10th. God bless!’

During his professional rugby career, Williams played 58 international matches for the All Blacks and is regarded as one of the most creative centers to have played rugby union.

Williams is one of the most decorated stars to have played both codes of rugby. He would go on to win the 2004 NRL premiership with the Bulldogs before winning the NRL with the Roosters.

After jumping to the union, he won the Super Rugby title with the Chiefs, multiple Bledisloe Cups with New Zealand and two Rugby World Cups.

He would later move into boxing and reigned for a time as the New Zealand Professional Boxing Association Heavyweight Champion and the WBA International Heavyweight Champion.