Graduate Profile: Thomas Coysh

Written By Rebecca Park
Thomas has long brown hair and is wearing a navy sweatshrit and jeans, with a medal around his neck. His is holding his cane and his right hand is on his hip. He is standing outside in the snow in front of a building.

Thomas Coysh, better known as The Blind SKiwi, is not just an aspiring downhill ski racer – he’s a force for change. Driven by a love for physical activity and a deep desire to empower others, Thomas is carving out a unique path as a full-time athlete, entrepreneur, and advocate.

Facing the challenges of unemployment, Thomas began exploring new ways to sustain his lifestyle and share his message. His business journey is rooted in a powerful mission: to enable and motivate people to reach their full potential, regardless of barriers.

Through social media, professional speaking, and consultancy work, Thomas shares his uplifting story and champions accessibility. His next venture, an inclusive clothing brand called Allegedly Impaired, will feature Braille in its designs and raise funds for disabled athletes – combining fashion, advocacy, and impact.

You can follow Thomas’s journey and support his work on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.

Thomas is a proud graduate of the My Business Starter programme, run by the Disability Business Network in partnership with CCS Disability Action. This free, nine-week online course helps disabled New Zealanders aged 18+ turn their ideas into action by creating a short business plan in a supportive and accessible environment.

Find out more:

📧 Email: support@ccsdisabilityaction.org.nz
📱 Text or call: 027 213 1820
🔗 Learn more: My Business Starter programme

Rebecca Park
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Graduate Profile: Marvin