Arson attack survivor who became an internationally recognised figure of resilience and self-acceptance.
On 16 February 2012, Dana Vulin's life changed in an instant when a woman broke into her Perth apartment and set her alight, causing third-degree burns to 64 per cent of her body and face. Dana spent ten days in an induced coma and faced years of reconstructive surgeries, daily physical therapy, and — at age 27 — a diagnosis of cervical cancer. The attacker was sentenced to 17 years in prison. Through all of it, Dana refused to disappear.
Her first major public moment came when she removed her compression mask on Channel 7's Sunday Night program, revealing her face to the world for the first time in two years and eight months. That act drew international headlines and established her as a figure of genuine survival — not as a metaphor, but as fact. A graduate of Edith Cowan University with majors in Advertising and Business Management, Dana had the communication skills to carry her story with clarity and purpose rather than seeking sympathy.
She has since spoken at empowerment events, fashion weeks, model mentoring programmes, and women's wellness forums — wherever audiences need evidence that identity and self-worth can survive the unimaginable. Her message is not about overcoming adversity in the abstract; it is rooted in a story so specific and harrowing that it cuts through in any room. For event organisers seeking a speaker whose story reframes what resilience actually means, Dana Vulin is without equal.
Dana Vulin is a keynote speaker based in Western Australia who speaks on inspiration, mental health & wellbeing and motivation. Book through Executive Speakers Australia.
Internal and External
When we were looking for a host of Kalgoorlie Fashion Week, Dana Vulin was a sure stand out. Her love of life and fashion meant we were guaranteed a beautiful show. Thrown into the deep end, Dana was able to keep the crowd entertained with her witty banter and seamless interaction with the audience.Kalgoorlie Fashion Week
Every term, we invite Dana Vulin to speak with our aspiring models about perseverance, motivation and overcoming hurdles in their early careers and life itself. As the founder and mentor for Model Camp Australia, I truly believe there isn't anyone more suited to this job than Miss Vulin herself. Her story is overwhelming - filled with courage, self-acceptance and determination. A perfect mirror to guide and inspire my students on their journey. And they absolutely love her.Model Camp Australia
LiveSmart recently organised a 'Ladies Empowerment' event to provide a platform to celebrate the inner strength of women. I could not have selected a more suitable speaker to address my audience. Miss Dana Vulin delivered her story of survival, determination and hope with such inspiration; exactly the aim of the event.LiveSmart and Medical Hand
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