Deaf Week gets under way |25 November 2023
The awardees with their teachers
Deaf Week was launched yesterday with a ceremony at the National Theatre, where new interpreters and students were recognised.
Although Deaf Week is traditionally celebrated in September, the Association for People with Hearing Impairment (Aphi) in Seychelles decided to host it in November.
The activities aim to raise awareness about deafness, promote inclusivity, and celebrate the deaf community.
At the beginning of the programme, all guests witnessed a video featuring President Wavel Ramkalawan, ministers, members of the National Assembly, and Seychellois from various strata of society greeting the audience using sign language.
Shana David presented the activities of the Association, shedding light on the challenges they face. Anita Gardner, a pioneer in implementing programmes for people with hearing impairment, shared the week's schedule, including events such as ‘Deaf Got Talent’ on Monday, a variety show on Saturday, and teachers conducting sign language lessons throughout the week.
On Monday, an interpreter will be present at the National Assembly, and on Tuesday, a group of deaf people will visit the National Assembly.
Thursday will feature the Deaf Expo at Kenwyn House, and the week will conclude with a picnic at Beau Vallon on Friday.
Mrs Gardner noted that Aphi continues to lobby for the cause of Deaf people. “Now it is time for us to sit down and look at the Conventions and implement them in the community. The school has only 12 children, where are the others? We have to give the children their rights. So many young people are also at home. They have the right to work and they need to come forward so that together we help them become independent.”
Addressing the crowd, Minister Patricia Francourt commended the efforts of all the volunteers, teachers for what they are doing for people with hearing impairment.
She congratulated Mrs Gardner for her devotion in the fight for the cause of deaf people.
“So far 12 social workers have completed the first phase in the training for sign language where they learnt about alphabets, vocabulary and grammar. This year again three of our staff went through the training. Without a doubt, this training has reinforced the capacity of our social workers in order to provide an inclusive service to the community,” shared the minister.
Samuel Morel, awarded Best Sportsman and Deaf of the Year, will pursue his studies in South Africa. Samuel expressed his happiness, aspiring to become an arts teacher and representing Seychelles at the Mr Deaf competition in the Czech Republic.
Doris Freminot, mother of Samuel, was very emotional. She could barely talk to us but still noted that the journey was not an easy one. “It was Ms Anita who discovered that my son had hearing issues. It was difficult for me to accept this but with encouragement from Ms Anita, we decided for Samuel to join the school and together we are giving him the right support. He had several opportunities to travel and participate in different competitions. Today I am very happy and proud of my son,” shared a tearful mum.
The ceremony recognised all teachers of the Deaf School, with special commendations for Faith Gabriel, Aliaah Hertel, and Mael Bacco. Coach Volcy, responsible for Deaf athletes, was also recognised for his contributions as well as local paper Seychelles NATION and journalist Vidya Gappy were acknowledged for their continuous support.
The event, marked by emotional moments for parents and children, featured performances by three deaf children supported by their peers from the International School. Newly graduated interpreters and teachers also showcased their talents, adding to the overall success of the event.
Text & photos Vidya Gappy
