Timothy Wood: Visionary and Advocate

Timothy Wood, the founder of Polly Speaks 4U, is a dedicated advocate for learners with dyslexia, visually impaired users, and individuals with mobility challenges. Born again at Easter in 1973, Tim’s journey has been deeply rooted in faith, perseverance, and a commitment to empowering others.

A Personal Mission

Having experienced learning challenges and personal tragedies, Tim intimately understands the barriers faced by disabled learners. These experiences inspired him to create a suite of accessible, inclusive software tools that address real-world challenges in classrooms and homes across South Africa.

Innovation Through Empathy

Polly Speaks 4U reflects Tim’s unique combination of creativity, technical skill, and empathy. By designing software “for the disabled, by the disabled,” he ensures that each module is practical, easy to use, and truly life-changing. Tim believes that technology can level the playing field — one PC, one classroom, one educator at a time.

Faith and Community

Tim’s work is also guided by his faith. He views each innovation as a calling to serve others, to provide clarity, and to amplify the voices of those often overlooked. Through workshops, demonstrations, and ongoing support, Tim continues to advocate for accessible education and inclusive technology across South Africa.

A Personal Tragedy

Tim has endured profound personal losses and health struggles. His beloved wife of 33 years, Winnie, passed away in 2020 at the height of the lockdown from leukemia. On 4 November 2023, his cherished brother Peter died from throat cancer. Tragically, his daughter Jessica passed away on 16 August 2024 due to drug abuse, compounded by an aneurysm and severe weight loss. Tim himself has been recovering from multi-drug resistant tuberculosis, having lost approximately 50% of his body mass and narrowly surviving the ordeal. These experiences have deeply shaped his compassion, resilience, and dedication to empowering others.

Looking Forward

Timothy’s vision for Polly Speaks 4U extends beyond software. He aims to create a national movement where every classroom is equipped to embrace neurodiversity, and every learner feels understood, empowered, and celebrated. Polly Speaks 4U is more than technology — it is a mission to transform learning experiences for generations to come.