Local NGO, the Ability Hub SA, recently held a photography pilot programme for five deaf learners from the MC Kharabi (MCK) Special School in an effort to promote learning marketable skills among the deaf community.

The Ability Hub, known for its annual Deaf Cooking Competition, says that this effort was born from the reality that finding employment after school is already challenging, but for deaf youth, the barriers are even greater.

“Our goal is to bridge that gap by equipping them with practical, income-generating skills, empowering them to work for themselves, freelance, and build sustainable livelihoods instead of waiting for limited job opportunities.

“What makes this initiative truly special is that it has been made possible through the generosity of local businesses and community members who believe in the vision of empowering deaf youth and creating equal opportunities,” said Ability Hub CEO and Founder, Zena Forbes.

Forbes says that the March 18 event would not have been possible without the assistance of their sponsors including the Modern Community Foundation, which assisted with training and equipment, the DSLR Garage in Silverton for allowing the Hub to use their premises, Eersterust Pick n Pay, and Mingos Pure Filtered Water in Eersterust, among other partnering stakeholders.

She added that the community turnout in support of these kinds of initiatives is heart-warming and a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration.

“We wanted to instil the idea that they don’t have to wait for a job to come to them, because they have the skills to be self-employed. As the deaf community, there are a lot of opportunities because their customers would be hearing people, but also the entire deaf community,” Forbes added.

This pilot brought together five deaf and four hearing students in an inclusive learning environment, demonstrating what is possible when access meets opportunity.

The programme, which included a session on sign language basics including how to get the attention of a deaf person, how to say hello, and basic camera terms also featured guests from the United States, who observed the program as potential sponsors.

The Hub is currently looking for sponsors to assist with the purchase of camera equipment to inspire and uplift more deaf youth through the initiative.

For more information, contact: 065 839 1836, or visit www.abilityhubsa.org.za, email zenaforbes1991@gmail.com or visit 902 Flamink Street, Pretoria, Silverton 0184.

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