Jodie Ounsley

Jodie Ounsley is a trailblazing athlete and passionate advocate for the deaf community who has consistently defied expectations throughout her inspiring journey. Born deaf, Jodie faced early scepticism about her ability to participate in contact sports. Refusing to be limited by assumptions, she committed herself to a wide range of athletic pursuits, proving her resilience time and again.

Jodie’s sporting accolades are impressive—she’s an International Sevens rugby player, a British Jiu-Jitsu Champion, and has played Premiership Rugby with the Exeter Chiefs. Alongside her athletic success, she has become a powerful voice for the deaf community, using her platform to educate and inspire.

In 2021, Jodie began creating content online to highlight the experiences of people with cochlear implants and hearing impairments. Her engaging TikTok videos have built a supportive and informed community, where she shares both challenges and triumphs, breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity.

Beyond the rugby pitch and social media, Jodie has taken on a new challenge in the revived TV series Gladiators, where she appears as “Fury.” Her role showcases her strength and determination, bringing greater visibility to deaf athletes in mainstream media.

Jodie Ounsley’s story is one of courage, persistence, and empowerment. Through sport, media, and advocacy, she continues to challenge stereotypes and inspire others—proving that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.