New Zealand shot putter, multiple world champion,
and twice Olympic bronze medalist (Rio and Tokyo).
When did you first realise that you had a different way of thinking:
My nanny noticed I had difficulties with reading and spelling when I was around 7 years old. Following this, we went through the process of getting tested. I had an assessment at 7 years old which confirmed I had dyslexia.
What was your experience of school?
I was very lucky to have received additional support both at primary school and secondary school from teacher aides. I still found English really hard and preferred subjects like maths, PE and hands-on subjects like woodwork.
How did you get involved in creative fields such as your field?
I was always into sports from a young age. Having an older brother who was also into sport meant I always had someone to compete against and this is where my competitiveness started. I always gravitated towards being outside and playing games and as I got older and realised I was pretty good at sports, I continued to chase that dream of being sportsperson.
What are the main work challenges that you have had to overcome?
Doing the paperwork for my building apprenticeship was challenging. I also book a lot of my own travel and plan my season which can involve a lot of written communication which I find difficult.
What do you think are some of the positives and negatives of dyslexia?
Positives – I am a visual learner and find it easy to visualise something I am trying to build or something I am trying to change in my throw. I am also very good with directions and feel comfortable speaking in public.
Negatives – I have been known to send some questionable texts and emails over the years without knowing the spelling errors. I do find emails difficult and need to be truly focused.
What advice would you give young New Zealanders who are dyslexic?
There are lots of opportunities out there. Just because you have dyslexia doesn’t mean it will prevent you from doing what you want to. It generally allows you to think in a different way. Find what works for you in terms of communication. I have always found being upfront with people helps and generally people are understanding.
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