Sekunjalo Sign Language Centre is breaking barriers, one sign at a time
Diepsloot resident Tembisa Mdudi is transforming lives by teaching South African Sign Language and empowering both deaf and hearing communities.
For Tembisa Mdudi, communication is about more than just words; it is about creating understanding, inclusion, and opportunity.
As the founder of Sekunjalo Sign Language Centre, based in Diepsloot, Mdudi has dedicated herself to bridging the communication gap between deaf and hearing communities through education and support.
Her passion stems from years of working alongside deaf people and witnessing the daily challenges they face because of communication barriers.
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“I wanted to close the communication gap between the deaf community and the hearing community. At the same time, I wanted to create opportunities for deaf people.”
Since establishing the organisation, Sekunjalo Sign Language Centre has been equipping members of the public with South African Sign Language skills, while also offering specialised training to early childhood development (ECD) teachers.
The organisation offers a free, three-month course to the community, believing that everyone should equip themselves with knowing sign language.
Recognising the importance of teaching inclusion from a young age, the organisation is preparing to introduce sign language classes for children between the ages of 10 and 17.
Mdudi believes these programmes will help build a more understanding and inclusive society, where deaf people can communicate freely and confidently.
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The organisation currently operates from the premises of Family Africa, whose support has allowed the centre to continue serving the community. However, the limited availability of the venue means classes can only be held during specific hours, making it difficult to expand the organisation’s reach.
“We work from 13:00 to 15:00 during the week, and on Saturdays from 12:00 to 14:00. We would love to have a place of our own where we can work throughout the day.”
Mdudi’s dream is to secure a permanent space, even if it is simply a donated shipping container that can be converted into a classroom. She hopes that businesses, organisations, or members of the public will come forward to help make that dream a reality.
“Having our own space would allow us to help even more people and continue breaking barriers between deaf and hearing communities.
We appeal to anyone who can assist us to please reach out.”
For donations reach out to Tembisa at +27 72 032 0316.
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