Nazim Erdem OAM
Current role: Practice Leader: Community Engagement & Business Development
Current organisation: AQA
What sport did you hold a scholarship for at VIS: Wheelchair Rugby
Time as VIS athlete: 1998 - 2017
Tell us about your life after your time at the VIS?
After retiring from my athletic career, I transitioned seamlessly into a new role at AQA, the non-profit organisation I was fortunate enough to work with during my time as an athlete. Now, as a Practice Leader in Community Engagement & Business Development, I am deeply involved in our mission to empower individuals with various physical disabilities to realise their full potential. Whether it's pursuing education, employment, travel, fostering relationships, or participating in sports, I'm dedicated to supporting them every step of the way.
Despite retiring from professional sports, my passion for wheelchair rugby remains undiminished. I continue to play at a local and national level, finding immense joy and fulfilment in the game. Moreover, I am actively involved with the Bali Sports Foundation (BSF), where I work towards developing wheelchair rugby in South East Asia. Through these endeavours, I am committed to expanding access to adaptive sports and promoting inclusivity in the region.
What is your proudest sporting achievement?
Over the years, I've had the privilege of experiencing numerous proud sporting achievements, each one leaving a lasting mark on my career. However, if I were to choose out one moment, it would probably be my participation in the 2000 Sydney Paralympic Games. Competing in front of my family and friends on home soil was an experience unlike any other. The energy of the crowd, the support of my loved ones, and the opportunity to represent Australia on such a grand stage made it an unforgettable experience. Winning a silver medal was the cherry on top.
Of course, I can't overlook the incredible feeling of winning consecutive gold medals at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Paralympic Games. Standing on the top step of the podium, hearing the national anthem play, and knowing that all the hard work and dedication had paid off is a feeling that is simply indescribable. It was a testament to the support of my family, coaches, and the entire Australian team. Those moments will always hold a special place in my heart.
What is your proudest moment outside of sport?
The work I do with AQA is truly fulfilling. Over the past couple of decades, I've had the opportunity to build a wide network of individuals and organisations. However, what really brings me satisfaction is seeing people with physical disabilities, who I have mentored, succeeding in life.
For many of them, life took a dramatic turn due to a traumatic injury, completely changing the course of their lives. Meeting them at a point where they've lost motivation, hope, and direction, often struggling with depression, is a sobering experience. However, being able to mentor them, support them, and witness their transformation into successful and happy human beings is incredibly rewarding.
What is the most valuable lesson you learnt during your time at the VIS?
As athletes, it's easy to lose sight of the fact that our time in the spotlight is relatively short. That's why it's crucial for us to make the most of every opportunity that comes our way. At the VIS, we're fortunate to have access to top-notch staff and facilities, and it's essential that we fully utilise everything that's available to us.
My time at the VIS has been incredibly enlightening. In addition to honing my athletic skills, it has taught me the importance of maintaining a balance between work, life, and sport. Understanding this balance is key to ensuring long-term success and well-being, both on and off the field.
Image: Nazim Erdem OAM representing Australia at the 2012 London Summer Paralympics
