The world of work often presents distinct challenges for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. Navigating limited access to quality education, discriminatory practices, and communication hurdles can feel like an insurmountable climb. However, nestled within the Pakistani landscape shines a beacon of hope – the Eddeaf, brainchild of Sheikh Faizan Raza. Faizan is an Islamabad native and alumnus of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) 2016, who executed his idea under ‘Alumni Small Grant’ (ASG).
Driven by a personal connection to the challenges faced by the deaf community, Faizan, himself hard of hearing, has carved a path of inclusivity through his startup, Abey Khao. This groundbreaking venture champions accessibility by employing deaf individuals and bridging the communication gap through sign language. Recognizing the need for further empowerment, Faizan embarked on the Eddeaf as an initiative, a testament to his unwavering passion for creating equitable opportunities.
This community development project Eddeaf wasn’t simply about filling vacant positions; it was about building futures. Spanning eight weeks, the program offered a comprehensive skill-building journey for its participants. Envisioned as a gateway to diverse career paths, the program equipped them with the tools needed to succeed. From honing English language proficiency and mastering MS Office to developing effective communication, problem-solving, and time management skills, the program empowered participants to navigate the professional world with confidence. Leadership workshops further polished their abilities, while resume-building sessions and online platform training paved the way for confident job hunting.
The program’s impact transcended initial expectations. Driven by a deep understanding of the community’s needs, Faizan’s initiative welcomed 36 participants instead of the planned 30, hailing from various regions of Pakistan. Importantly, nearly half of the participants were women, showcasing the program’s commitment to inclusivity. Even more remarkable, the Eddeaf Fellowship Program boasted a 100% completion rate, a testament to its engaging curriculum and unwavering support network.
The program’s success resonated beyond completion certificates. Positive leads for job placements emerged from organizations like Faysal Bank and Deaf Reach, demonstrating the tangible impact of the program’s efforts. Participants themselves echoed the transformative experience. Aqsa, a young woman from Lahore, spoke of her initial hesitations and eventual triumph, attributing her success to the program’s unwavering support. Abu Bakar, another participant, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for Eddeaf’s mission of equal access and opportunity.
Faizan credits the program’s reach and amplified impact to his invaluable collaboration with the Pakistan-U.S. Alumni Network (PUAN) and the U.S. Mission. This partnership provided crucial support and visibility, propelling the program’s message of inclusivity further than imagined.
Eddeaf serves as a powerful reminder that with dedication and innovative approaches, seemingly insurmountable barriers can crumble. It is a testament to the transformative power of skill development, equal access, and unwavering support. As Faizan’s initiative continues to empower the deaf community, it paints a vivid picture of a future where inclusivity reigns and talent knows no limitations.
Let’s celebrate and amplify the inspiring stories of Eddeaf and pave the way for a world where everyone, regardless of ability, can reach their full potential.
