A Ray of Hope: New Financial Support for BANZAT Fuels Progress in Accessibility

The community at Blind Low Vision NZ is abuzz with good news. We are excited to announce a significant financial support extended to the Braille Authority of New Zealand Aotearoa Trust (BANZAT) recently.

This contribution signifies our ongoing commitment to advancing the interests of people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision and underlines the importance of Braille in empowering lives.

As a key tool for literacy and independence, Braille holds immense significance for people with vision loss. The system of raised dots representing letters, numbers, punctuation, and more, opens up a world of literacy, helping people who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision to read and write with ease. It is, without question, a fundamental component of accessible communication.

By providing financial support to BANZAT, an organisation dedicated to overseeing the consistency and availability of Braille across New Zealand, we are reinforcing our mission to ensure a future where everyone can participate on equal terms. This funding will greatly aid BANZAT in their efforts to promote, protect, and standardise Braille, ensuring its continuity and modernisation to match evolving needs.

Nigel Waring, the Head of Technology and Accessibility at Blind Low Vision NZ, expressed his enthusiasm about the recent support.

“This is not just about a donation; it’s about strengthening the fibres of a community that values inclusivity and equal opportunities,” Waring said. “By bolstering BANZAT’s financial resources, we are not only endorsing the importance of Braille literacy but also enabling more people to unlock their full potential.”

He went on to highlight how Braille is an indispensable tool for education, employment, and daily life for many people in the blind and low vision community.

“Access to Braille can open doors to possibilities that may otherwise remain closed. It’s about more than reading or writing – it’s about self-sufficiency, confidence, and an equal shot at success.”

With this financial backing, BANZAT can now further expand its reach and continue to push boundaries for better accessibility. We at Blind Low Vision NZ are proud to support such initiatives, as they embody our belief that visual impairment should not limit anyone’s ability to learn, work, or lead a fulfilling life.

This recent support showcases our collective effort to champion Braille literacy and accessibility in New Zealand. Together, we can ensure that no one gets left behind, fostering a society that is inclusive, understanding, and equitable for all.

Learn more about BANZAT on their website. Click here for the BANZAT website.

Wondering why all instances of Braille have been capitalised? Click here to read the BANZAT article, Capital B for Braille.