Meet That Blind Woman
Julie Woods

Daring to Say ‘Why Not?’

When life threw Julie Woods a curveball in 1997, she had every reason to say ‘no.’ No to adventure. No to opportunities. No to the unknown. But instead, she flipped the script, embraced the challenge, and decided to say Why Not?

From learning Braille to refereeing nude touch rugby, from walking every street in Dunedin to visiting 50 countries before 50, Julie is proof that the most unexpected journeys begin with two simple words.

Now, she’s here to share her story with you—through speaking, coaching and projects designed to make the world a more inclusive, connected place.

Be Inspired: Book Julie to Speak

Be Part of History!

How do you connect the world with dots? By transcribing one million names into Braille! Julie’s dream started in 2012, and now, she’s on a mission to make it happen.

💡 Help raise awareness of accessibility and inclusion
💡 Add your name (or a loved one’s) to the movement
💡Donations go towards getting more names to more people  

 

Be part of something bigger.

See differently!

Experience the world through a different lens with The Accessibility Game.  Whether you’re looking to build stronger teams, raise awareness, or simply expand your understanding of accessibility, this game will leave you questioning,

What else could I be doing to make the world less disabling?

 

Ready to play the game?

Bag some goodies

Looking for something inspiring, thought-provoking, or just downright awesome? You can choose from one of my books to that celebrate resilience, adventure, and accessibility.

Or grab yourself a braille bookmark, coasters or gift a loved one and at the same time become part of something bigger to enable accessibility for all

 

Ready to go shopping? 

What others have said...

“I was very fortunate to hear you speak yesterday at our leaders workshop – there were tears and lots of laughter from me, to hear your amazing story in person was so inspirational. Blind Low Vision NZ are lucky to have you as ambassador!”

Lyvie King

Braille producer at the Blind Foundation

“Julie, a brief note of appreciation for what was a fantastic function, made by your captivating talk. Everyone is buzzing this morning. You have left an impression. Thank you.”

Richard Whitney

CEO Mercy Hospital

“I am using the phrases “Why Not’ more often thanks to you. I have even passed them on to my daughters one of which is feeling very homesick whilst doing an internship at the Hilton in Malta. I have encouraged her to embrace the “why not’ approach to help her through.”

Christine Jones

Enjo NZ Ltd

“You moved so many of us to tears what an inspiration you are to all that meet you. I will forever be proud to say that you have crossed my path and made a difference to me”

Jill Oliver

Early Childhood Education Conference