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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 faced numerous challenges in achieving its goal of developing new skills for deaf community leaders.
Key Challenges
- Shortage of specialists and consultants with expertise in working with the deaf community.
- Development of adaptive surveys and survey instruments to ensure accessibility and inclusivity.
- Training of trainers and the creation of specialized training programs tailored to the needs of deaf participants.
- Preparation and mobilization of deaf individuals to actively participate in civic initiatives.
Addressing These Challenges
Overcoming these obstacles requires persistence, collaboration with stakeholders, and an adaptive approach that takes into account the specific needs and circumstances of deaf individuals. By fostering partnerships, investing in specialized training, and ensuring accessible methodologies, the project can continue to empower deaf community leaders and enhance their civic engagement.
The project has achieved significant results and produced key outputs that are crucial for supporting deaf leaders, enhancing their skills development, and fostering their active participation in society.
Key Achievements
A comprehensive survey was conducted to assess the needs of deaf leaders and identify the challenges faced by deaf individuals in society. The data collected provided valuable insights that served as the foundation for the project’s follow-up activities.
Based on the findings, the project developed tailored tools and training programs designed to meet the specific needs of deaf leaders. These included specialized training modules and communication support tools to facilitate greater engagement in different areas of society.
Training sessions were held to prepare both trainers working with deaf leaders and deaf participants themselves. This played a key role in developing their skills, confidence, and leadership capacity, enabling them to take on active roles in civic and public life.
Several civic initiatives and awareness campaigns were launched to increase the participation of deaf individuals in public life. These initiatives also contributed to strengthening the advocacy skills of deaf leaders, equipping them to effectively champion their rights and interests.
Through these achievements, the project has laid a strong foundation for the long-term empowerment of deaf leaders, ensuring their meaningful engagement in society as advocates, professionals, and active citizens.
The increased participation and confidence of 34 deaf leaders is one of the most significant outcomes of the project. Thanks to the training, support, and resources provided, these leaders have become more active and effective advocates for the deaf community, strengthening their roles in representation and leadership.
Key Achievements
- Greater awareness and inclusivity: The project helped raise societal awareness of the needs and challenges faced by deaf individuals, fostering a more inclusive environment and a better understanding of their rights and interests.
- Community and support network: The initiative established a strong network among deaf leaders and participants, enabling them to share experiences, exchange knowledge, and access resources, while providing peer support in their collective efforts for social change.
- Increased civic engagement: Deaf leaders are now more actively involved in community life, contributing to policy discussions, advocacy efforts, and public initiatives that improve conditions for the deaf community as a whole.
The project has had a significant societal impact, empowering deaf leaders to drive change, ensuring greater visibility for their concerns, and laying the foundation for long-term improvements in accessibility, rights, and social participation.
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.