Akec
Makur Chuot
Akec Makur Chuot is a former AFLW Player, Content Creator & Motivational Speaker. Born in war-torn South Sudan, Akec spent 11 years of her childhood in Kakuma, a Kenyan refugee camp, before arriving in Perth, Western Australia at the age of 11.
Through sheer determination, a life-long can-do attitude and the support of her large family, Akec has overcome Incredible hurdles to become the first African woman drafted into the Inaugural AFL Women's competition in 2017 with the Fremantle Football Club. In 2018, she moved to Victoria to play with Carlton in the VFL Women's state competition. After Joining Richmond's VFLW Program in 2019, Makur Chuot was elevated to the Tiger's AFLW list ahead of the 2020 AFL Women's season. She made her club debut against Carlton at Ikon Park in the opening round of the 2020 AFLW season. The versitle Winger/Half Back with The Hawthorn Football Club, Richmond and Fremantle Dockers in the AFLW.
Akec's impact extends far beyond the football field, as she serves as a mentor and role model for young African women and men, speaking out as a passionate Anti Racism advocate and being an Ambassador for Helping Hoops alongside many other communities initiative and work she does.
Further to this Akec is a talented Content creator, Speaker and Model using her platform to motivate young Female athletes and aspiring young athletes to 'Get In The Game'. She has ultimately become an Ambassador for Cadbury Australia and Telstra, and modelled for the likes of Witchery and Lululemon.
Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business degree with a double major in Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Marketing. Akec excels in her work as an Entrepreneur, running her own online business called Safari Boutique Australia.
Named 2024 Amari Gala Trailblazer of the Year, Akecs dedication to empowering others and breaking barriers has made her a beloved figure in the AFLW community and beyond.
After an impressive career dominating the sporting scene as an elite athlete spanning 40 AFLW games across six seasons, Akec announced her retirement from the game in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and inspiration for future generations.