Eastgate unveils sign language service for deaf shoppers
Eastgate Shopping Centre now offers on-demand South African Sign Language interpreters, making shopping more accessible and inclusive for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
According to a recent report, approximately four million people in South Africa are deaf or hard of hearing.
In celebration of International Accessibility Day this May, Eastgate Shopping Centre announced a collaboration with Convo South Africa to improve accessibility for this community.
Through this partnership, Eastgate now provides on-demand access to South African Sign Language (SASL) interpreters at customer service points across the centre.
Deaf and hard-of-hearing shoppers can scan QR codes displayed at these points to connect with an interpreter via video call.
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The service is quick, intuitive and offered at no cost to the customer.
Marking a meaningful step in the centre’s drive to offer a more inclusive shopping experience, the initiative is now live.
“Inclusivity should not be an afterthought,” said Saadiyah Kahn, general manager at Eastgate Shopping Centre.
“We’ve been looking closely at how we can better accommodate shoppers with varying needs, and this partnership with Convo is an important first move.
“We are committed to ensuring every customer feels seen, understood and respected.”
Convo also provides interpreting and communication solutions that are accessible via smartphones, laptops and tablets.
The service supports South African sign language and spoken languages including English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu and Sesotho, ensuring a wide range of users can engage on their terms.
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For Eastgate, integrating this innovative technology is a step towards shaping an environment where communication barriers are actively removed.
The rollout also signals the need to rethink how public spaces can better serve all members of the community.
As one of the largest shopping centres in Johannesburg, Eastgate has over 200 retailers including local and international brands, numerous dining options, a multiplex cinema, a go-kart track and various other lifestyle attractions.
For more details on stores, events, competitions, and activities, visit www.eastgateshops.com or follow Eastgate on social media @eastgateshoppingcentre.
