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Description
During the years of transition in the Bulgarian deaf community no activities were carried out aimed at empowering deaf people through sign language. Bulgarian Sign Language is what unites all deaf people in one community. Deaf leaders can be sign language speakers. Unfortunately, in Bulgaria, speakers of sign language with leadership qualities have been deprived of opportunities for civic and professional development. The recognition of the Bulgarian sign language happened only at the end of 2020. In practice, until then, the deaf community in Bulgaria was suppressed and did not have the opportunity to train active representatives, leaders and trainers. With this project we aim to lay the foundation for a curriculum through Bulgarian sign language and the practical application of this knowledge in public life. A study will be conducted on the needs of deaf leaders, which will lead to the preparation of a training program. It will be prepared by a team of deaf trainers together with international experts. In the short term, the goal is to achieve a high level of participation and strong interest from the deaf community, providing a critical mass of deaf leaders in Bulgaria in places that actively advocate for their human rights. It is planned to increase the sensitivity to challenges and solutions for the deaf among hearing people. In the long run, this will inevitably lead to equality for the deaf.
Summary of project results
The project had many challenges related to achieving the set goals of developing new skills for deaf community leaders.
The main challenges for the project were: the shortage of specialists and consultants, the need to create adaptive surveys and survey instruments, training of trainers and development of training programs, preparation, and mobilization of deaf people for participation in civic initiatives.
Addressing these challenges will require persistence, collaboration with stakeholders and an adaptive approach that considers the specific needs and circumstances of deaf people.
The project has achieved significant results and outputs that are essential to support deaf leaders, their skills development and participation in society. A survey of the needs of deaf leaders was carried out and research was conducted to understand the needs and challenges that deaf people experience in society. The survey provided valuable data and information that served as the basis for follow-up activities.
Once needs were identified, the project developed tools and programs to meet the specific requirements of deaf leaders. This included training programs tailored for deaf participation as well as tools to support communication and participation in different areas of society.
The project provided training and preparation for trainers to work with deaf leaders, as well as for the deaf participants themselves. This aspect of the project played a key role in developing the skills and confidence of deaf leaders to actively participate in society.
Several civic initiatives and campaigns were implemented to raise awareness and participation of deaf people in public life. These campaigns also contributed to strengthening the skills of deaf leaders in their role as advocates for rights and interests.
The increased participation and confidence of a total of 34 deaf leaders is an important outcome. They have become more active and effective in their role as advocates and leaders of the deaf community due to the training, support and resources provided.
The project has also contributed to raising awareness and inclusiveness in society to the needs and challenges faced by deaf people. This has created greater inclusivity and a better understanding of their rights and interests.
The project created a community and support network among deaf leaders and participants, allowing them to share experiences, knowledge, resources, and to support each other in their efforts to change and improve society. The project has also had a significant societal impact, supporting deaf leaders to become more active participants in community life and improving conditions for deaf people in general.
Summary of bilateral results
Lyk-z & døtre as (Norway), as specialists in training for the empowerment of vulnerable groups, assisted in the creation of the training program for deaf leaders by providing the necessary resources for their training.Vzaimno Foundation with its focus on media coverage through Bulgarian sign language helped to promote the project, providing information and communication to the deaf community through its media channels.Youth Organization of Deaf Activists, as an organisation of deaf young activists, was a key player in mobilising and motivating them to actively participate in the project and engage in advocacy campaigns.Meeting Points Foundation organised meetings between different communities, facilitated the creation of links and partnerships between the deaf and hearing communities to facilitate the implementation of legislation and achieve equality for deaf people.The likelihood that the positive effects of the project will continue after the funding ends depends on several factors. The sustainability of the project model is a key aspect. The commitment of stakeholders, including local authorities, community groups and beneficiaries, is also essential. If they are motivated to maintain and develop the results achieved, this further contributes to the continuation of the positive effects.The integration of project activities and results into existing systems and practices, as well as the training and capacity development of local actors and organizations, are also factors that can ensure the sustainability of project results.