Jodie Ounsley (aka Fury from Gladiators)
Nominee Profile
Location: West Yorkshire
Known to many as FURY from BBC Gladiators, Jodie Ounsley is a pioneer in sport, inclusion, and empowerment. Born profoundly deaf, she has never let barriers define her, only her determination has. At just 24 years old, Jodie has already made history as the first deaf female rugby player to represent England at an elite level. She has competed internationally for England and GB 7s and is also a Deaflympian, best-selling author of the book ‘Keep Smashing It’, and podcast host, amplifying the voices of strong female athletes.
Beyond the field, Jodie is a passionate advocate for equality, disability rights, and inclusion. She serves as charity patron for The Elizabeth Foundation, is a former president of UK Deaf Sport, and is an ambassador to leading organisations committed to diversity. She has spoken at Buckingham Palace as an ambassador for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, presented at the BAFTAs and Sports Personality of the Year, and has been honoured as BBC Women’s Hour Power List: Women in Sport 2023.
Whether setting world records in coal carrying or presenting the Channel 4 Paralympics 2024, Jodie is driven to empower others, ignite inspiration, and challenge the boundaries of what’s possible.
Beyond the field, Jodie is a passionate advocate for equality, disability rights, and inclusion. She serves as charity patron for The Elizabeth Foundation, is a former president of UK Deaf Sport, and is an ambassador to leading organisations committed to diversity. She has spoken at Buckingham Palace as an ambassador for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards, presented at the BAFTAs and Sports Personality of the Year, and has been honoured as BBC Women’s Hour Power List: Women in Sport 2023.
Whether setting world records in coal carrying or presenting the Channel 4 Paralympics 2024, Jodie is driven to empower others, ignite inspiration, and challenge the boundaries of what’s possible.