Updated on August 8, 2024
Nick Vujicic is a remarkable Australian evangelist and motivational speaker whose life story defies the limitations of physical disabilities. Nick came into the world with tetra-amelia syndrome, a rare condition that left him without arms and legs. Despite facing challenges from birth, Nick has conquered his obstacles and become a beacon of hope for millions worldwide.
Let’s discuss 20 things you may not know about the evangelist.
- Nick Vujicic, born in Melbourne, Australia, on December 4, 1982, to Dushka and Boris Vujicic, has two siblings, Michelle and Aaron. Although healthy, he was born without arms and legs. However, one of his feet has two separate toes, which he fondly calls his “chicken drumstick.” This unique feature allows him to perform many daily tasks, essentially using his toes like fingers for grasping.
- Nick’s arrival was a shock for his parents. His mother, especially, struggled to process the reality of his condition. She needed time to adjust, even refusing to hold him at first. Thankfully, with time came acceptance. Both Nick’s parents eventually embraced their son and the challenges he presented.
- Despite his usual intelligence, a state law in Victoria initially barred Nick from attending a regular school due to his physical disability. Fortunately, when those laws changed, Nick became one of the first disabled students integrated into mainstream education.
- At the age of eight, he’d contemplated suicide, and at ten, he tragically attempted to drown himself in the bathtub. Thankfully, his love for his parents prevented him from following through.
- Nick desperately prayed for arms and legs, even bargaining with God that his praise would cease if his prayers remained unanswered. However, a key turning point in his faith arrived when his mother showed him a newspaper article about another person with a severe disability.
- Despite his physical limitations, Nick Vujicic excelled academically, graduating from Griffith University at 21 with a double major in accounting and financial planning and earning a Bachelor of Commerce degree.
- Driven by his newfound purpose, Nick became a voice for those with disabilities. His natural charisma has taken him to a global stage, where he now speaks to massive crowds. Nick’s message of hope and meaning has reached over 57 countries through more than 3,000 talks. Over 6 million people have heard some of these inspiring speeches.
- A devout Christian, Nick Vujicic shares his faith in Jesus Christ through evangelism, travelling the world to deliver his powerful testimony. His passion extends beyond religious circles, as he also founded the motivational speaking company Attitude is Altitude (established in 2007), offering a secular message of overcoming challenges. Additionally, Nick established Life Without Limbs, an international non-profit ministry dedicated to inspiring others.
- Nick Vujicic is also a writer. His books, including hits like “Life Without Limits” and “Unstoppable,” share his story and inspire people worldwide. These books delve into his personal journey, offering a glimpse into the challenges he’s overcome and the unwavering faith that guides him. These books aren’t just inspirational; they provide tools and strategies to help readers navigate their own obstacles and live fulfilling lives.
- His message of hope reaches far and wide through his books. With over a million copies sold and translations in 30 languages, Nick’s eight books inspire people worldwide.
- Nick Vujicic’s own struggles with bullying and isolation as a child fueled his passion to help others. He created AIA (Attitude is Altitude), a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program for students. This curriculum, developed alongside educators, equips teachers with easy-to-use resources that promote positivity, address bullying, and guide students in developing strong social and emotional skills – all aligned with CASEL’s framework.
- Nick Vujicic isn’t just a motivational speaker! He’s also been on TV shows like 20/20 and even acted in a short film called “The Butterfly Circus.” he even won an award for best actor.
- Nick Vujicic is also a TV star. He has been featured on popular shows like Oprah or CBS Sunday Morning, sharing his message of hope. He’s even been recognized as a young faith leader and appeared on international programs.
- Despite his busy travel schedule, Nick prioritises a healthy lifestyle. He finds that prayer helps him manage his time effectively and make positive choices. Nick fuels his body with healthy, balanced meals, stays hydrated, and prioritises getting enough sleep to maintain his energy and well-being.
- Nick Vujicic was raised Serbian Orthodox by his parents but considers himself a born-again Christian. His message focuses on personal faith and finding strength in God’s word. Nick takes the Bible literally and believes Jesus Christ will return.
- In 2012, Nick Vujicic married Kanae Miyahara. The couple now resides in Southern California with their four children: two sons and two daughters. His wife, Kanae, was already seeing someone when she met Nick. But it was love at first sight.
- For Nick, it was also love at first sight, and he says there was an instant chemistry between them.
- Nick cannot drive all kinds of cars. He has a special car custom-made for him. The car has no pedal, and the steering wheel is close to his V LImb. It contains a touch-sensitive stick as well as a start/stop button and touches the start command before the car starts.
- Nick writes using two toes on his left foot and a special grip that he slides onto his big toe. He’s also good with computers, typing up to 45 words per minute using a technique called “heel and toe.”
- He also learned to do daily tasks like throwing tennis balls, playing drums with pedals, getting a glass of water, combing his hair, brushing his teeth, answering the phone, and shaving. He’s not just limited to everyday tasks; he’s into sports like golf, swimming, and skydiving.
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