Rugby Star and so much more - Ruby Tui is one of four Kwis who are now finalists to become the Kiwibank New Zealander of the year.
She sits alongside Sir John Kirwan, Professor Rangi Mātāmua as well asDames Jules and Lynda Topp, who are counted as one.
Tui told Tova O'Brien she wants to use her platform to help young Kiwis off the field.
"I've always tried to be more than a rugby player and try and help out where I can," Tui said.
"The connections I've had with people, it's bigger than sport."
The Black Ferns World Cup star has even written an autobiography titled 'Straight Up", which was published in September last year, something she hopes will inspire readers to also strive for greatness.
Tui said when she realised there weren't any other autobiographies written by Kiwi sportswomen, she knew she had a chance to fill that gap.
"It was never about me, it was always about future Black Ferns, young girls and young boys.
"We all go through hardships and we can all make something of our lives…I think it's important to talk about domestic violence, mental health and all of that.
"What I want to hammer home is that you can get through it and you can make something of your life."
While Tui told O'Brien she would love to get back into playing for the Black Ferns, the 31-year-old said her rugby career will have to be put on hold for now.
"I've found myself off the field doing a lot of things for rugby that have opened my eyes and I'm trying to make a difference there.
"I really would love to play again but I've got a couple of things that I need to help with to make that happen."
Listen to the full interview between Ruby Tui and Tova above.
You can also download the full interview on the Tova podcast, and listen on the go. Download the rova app on apple or android to listen to this podcast on the go, or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
