Team spotlight on Bri Williams, audiologist
- Jun 16
- 3 min read
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background (e.g. what and where you studied) and what led you to become an audiologist?
Bri: I completed my Bachelor of Science and Master of Audiology at The University of Auckland. I was drawn to audiology because it combines healthcare, technology, and working closely with people and their whānau. I was particularly interested in the impact early intervention has on communication, education, and overall quality of life. This includes access to hearing and/or visual communication, all which are very important. Being able to help people access cochlear implants and connect with others is what continues to make the profession so rewarding.
Q: You’ve worked across a range of settings, including Starship Hospital and private audiology clinics—how have those experiences shaped your clinical practice?
Bri: Working in both public and private settings has given me a broad perspective on hearing healthcare. At Starship, I worked with children and families with complex needs and saw firsthand the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and family-centred care. In private practice, I developed skills in building long-term relationships with kiritaki/clients and tailoring solutions to individual needs. Together, these experiences have helped me become a more adaptable clinician who values both clinical excellence and strong relationships.
Q: What led to you working at The Hearing House, and what do you enjoy most about being part of the team?
Bri: I was drawn to The Hearing House because of its commitment to providing specialised support for Deaf and hard of hearing children with and their families. The organisation's focus on equitable access to services, outreach, and holistic care really resonated with me. What I enjoy most is working alongside a passionate team of professionals who are all focused on helping children reach their full potential. The collaborative environment and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in children's lives are incredibly rewarding.
Q: What do you think is the most important aspect of our outreach and van visits?
Bri: The most important aspect of our outreach and van visits is reducing barriers to care. Many families face challenges with travel, time away from work or school, and accessing specialist services. Bringing services closer to where people live and work and go about their daily lives makes cochlear implant care more accessible and equitable. Our kiritaki often tell us how much they appreciate the convenience and flexibility, as well as the opportunity to receive support in a familiar and comfortable environment. For many families, these visits make it much easier to stay connected with ongoing care.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming an audiologist or working in hearing health?
Bri: I would encourage them to spend time learning about the wide range of opportunities within audiology and learning about the amazing Deaf community and what they have to offer. It is a profession that combines science, technology, healthcare, culture and communication. Strong interpersonal skills are just as important as technical knowledge because building trust with clients and families is a key part of the role. If you enjoy problem-solving and want a career where you can make a tangible difference in people's lives, audiology is a fantastic choice.
Q: You recently presented at the NZ Audiological Society (NZAS) conference in Christchurch — what was the importance of this opportunity?
Bri: Presenting at the NZ Audiological Society conference in Christchurch was an opportunity to share some of the innovative work being done at The Hearing House and contribute to wider discussions about improving outcomes for children at Ko Taku Reo enrolled schools. Conferences like NZAS provide valuable opportunities to learn from colleagues, exchange ideas, and stay up to date with developments in the field. They also help strengthen professional networks and encourage collaboration, which ultimately benefits the people we support.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Bri: Outside of work, I am a choreographer and dance teacher for weddings and music videos. I also enjoy playing video games, hanging out with my family and dog, Chief (or Mischief if she's being naughty!). Having a good balance outside of work helps me bring energy and perspective back into my role as an audiologist.
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