About Dave | PronouncePro

With decades of experience in the heart of New Zealand's sporting and media landscape, Dave Ward created PronouncePro to bridge a critical gap between cultural respect and public communication. This app is the culmination of a career spent on the front lines of broadcasting, a passion for rugby, and a deep-seated commitment to honouring the diverse cultures of Aotearoa.

Broadcasting & Sporting Expertise

As a seasoned commentator, commercial voice, Ground Announcer, and MC, Dave has seen firsthand how the mispronunciation of names can create barriers and disrespect. His career has taken him from local club rugby fields to international stadiums, giving him a unique perspective on the importance of getting it right, every single time. PronouncePro is his answer to a problem he has lived and breathed for years, providing a tool he wishes he'd had on day one.

Advocacy & Cultural Integrity

Dave's commitment to cultural integrity extends beyond pronunciation. He has been a vocal advocate for inclusivity in the media industry, notably challenging casting norms with his public stand against discriminatory briefs in his 'voiceover artist the white way' campaign. This action highlighted systemic biases and pushed for a more equitable industry, demonstrating a long-standing dedication to using his platform for positive change. PronouncePro is a natural extension of this advocacy, moving from challenging what's wrong to building what's right.

The Vision for PronouncePro

The vision for PronouncePro is simple but profound: to make correct and respectful pronunciation an effortless, accessible skill for all New Zealanders and visitors. It's about empowering journalists, teachers, fans, and travellers to speak with confidence and manaakitanga. This isn't just an app; it's a vehicle for cultural change, designed to foster unity and understanding, one name at a time.