Overcoming the odds with life's greater purpose

Australian Nicholas James Vujicic gives motivational speeches and shares ideas on social media to inspire worldwide audiences. [Photo provided to China Daily]

During the last few minutes of his speech, Vujicic had everyone stand up and repeat with him, "I will do my best to love myself and everyone else, and to dream big".

"I understand sometimes it is hard for Chinese people to talk to one another or say out loud, even to themselves, their love and thanks," he says. "I want the audience to remember that special interaction, and if only one person is impacted, my job is done."

During his speeches this year, Vujicic was also surprised to see a group of performers with disabilities dancing on stage and sharing their skills and talent.

"I am happy to know other people who have overcome disabilities and obstacles. They can show the young people in China that they can overcome difficulties as well."

Vujicic, born in Melbourne, Australia, is one of seven known surviving individuals in the world who live with tetra-amelia syndrome. He was born with the toes of one foot fused. After an operation, he could use them like fingers to grab, turn a page, or perform other functions. He is now able to use his foot to operate an electric wheelchair, a computer and a mobile phone. He has traveled to 67 countries to give speeches.