SBW Works to Become an Advocate for Substance Abuse

Former heavyweight boxer and Rugby World Cup winner Sonny Bill Williams is now turning his attention to advocacy, especially in combating the dangers of illegal drug use.

During his visit to the pediatric ward at Lautoka Hospital, Williams expressed deep concern about the impact of drugs on communities in Fiji and the Pacific Islands.

The cross-code star says it is disturbing to see how the drug problem is affecting families and children, not just in Fiji but across the Pacific.

The All Blacks Center says this fight starts at home and in our schools, but it is also a collective effort.

“So we have to hit the nail on the head, as they say here now. And I think the beauty of Fiji and the Pacific Islands and what I know is sport, and you can use sport as a driver for so many great things, including giving people the opportunity to educate themselves about the pressures of drug use, the fight against drug use, and the problems associated with drug use.”

SBW emphasizes that we must all work together to protect our communities from this drug virus ravaging the Pacific.

Williams emphasizes the role of sport as a powerful platform for change.

He believes he can use his influence in sports to raise awareness about the harmful effects of drugs and has spoken to several individuals about how he can become an advocate, and I am determined to make a difference.

During his visit to the hospital, Williams took time to meet children and their parents and exchange words of encouragement and positivity.

He handed out autographed t-shirts and gifts, lifting the spirits of the people in the neighborhood.