DEAFKIDZ International is hosting a free Zumba session at The Shed, Westville Country Club, on December 21 from 09:00 to 11:00.

Participants can come wearing Christmas outfits. The event will include spot prizes, a raffle, and opportunities to learn more about the organisation’s work in SA.

Children are welcome and U12s must be accompanied by a responsible adult; the session is not suitable for U6s.
DeafKidz International, a global organisation dedicated to protecting and empowering deaf children, is strengthening awareness of their work in SA with a community event: a free, family-friendly Zumba session open to all.

SA is a core hub for DeafKidz International, with an office in Westville, Durban. The charity delivers critical safeguarding programmes to deaf children and the adults in their lives across the country, including KZN, ensuring deaf children have the knowledge and skills they need to protect themselves from all forms of abuse.

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Debra Clelland, chief executive of DeafKidz International, said hundreds of deaf children across SA have already taken part in DK Defenders, an innovative play-based safeguarding programme that teaches deaf children how to recognise unsafe situations and how to seek help.

Using games, animations and workshops in South African sign language, Clelland said the programme ensures deaf children receive accessible, meaningful protection education.

According to the Westville resident, parents, guardians and community members are also supported through bespoke safeguarding workshops, helping adults to spot signs of abuse, improve communication with deaf children, and build safer home, school and community environments.

In addition, she said educators have received training to deliver the programme effectively and to protect deaf learners within their educational settings.

As someone who has worked with deaf children for many years, she said she knows first-hand how important it is for deaf children to feel safe, supported and included in everyday life.

“South Africa is a vibrant, resilient country, and we are committed to partnering with communities here to make sure no deaf child is left behind.

“We should all be asking ourselves how we can contribute to our community and taking aligned action – events like this are a wonderful way to do just that.

“A huge thank you to Westville Country Club for generously sponsoring this event, and to the many local businesses that have donated prizes to support the event.”

Clelland added that fun, accessible events like the Zumba event help bring families together while highlighting critical safeguarding issues that often go unseen.

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