For the first time in its 54-year history, New Zealand’s largest participation event, Southern Cross Round the Bays, included NZ Sign Language (NZSL) interpreters, ensuring the Deaf community could fully engage in the event. Round the Bays is a three-city event held annually that offers a fun and accessible way for individuals of all fitness levels to participate in a range of activities, including running, jogging, and walking along a stunning waterfront route. This year, it was held on the eve of World Hearing Day. The event featured interpreters positioned at key points along the route, including the start line and on stage with the event MCs, providing real-time translations. This move is a milestone for accessibility in New Zealand, with Deaf Aotearoa stepping in to provide the interpreters. The inclusion of NZSL in this event aligns with this year’s NZSL week theme of "An Aotearoa (New Zealand) Where Anyone Can Sign Anywhere,” aimed at raising awareness for the Deaf community.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has launched a new video relay service to allow the Deaf community to make direct calls. Starting last week, the service offers users 24/7 access to Irish Sign Language (ISL) or British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters through the SignVideo app or a call button on the PSNI website. This service enables Deaf individuals to contact the PSNI independently, with interpreters relaying calls to the Contact Management Centre for further processing. This development promises to significantly improve communication between the police and the Deaf community, ensuring more inclusive access to police services.

Masaka School for the Deaf in Uganda recently celebrated its 20th anniversary of empowering Deaf children with education and skills. The anniversary event was attended by key figures including the Queen consort of the Buganda Kingdom. The celebrations recognized and highlighted the school's commitment to providing Deaf students with the opportunity to learn and thrive. From starting with just 12 pupils when it first opened in 2003, the school now has 133 students. The increase in student numbers reflects its growth and impact on the community. The founder of the school, Francis Kamulegeya, shared his journey at the celebration and how far the school has come in offering education and support to its students.

In Westonaria, Johannesburg, there is an agricultural park where people are busy tilling the soil and planting tomatoes and lettuce. Most of the workers on the farm are Deaf and use sign language. The farm, called Voiceout Deaf Farming, was founded by Victoria Matebogo, a Deaf entrepreneur who wanted to create opportunities for the Deaf community. Victoria has faced many challenges herself. While studying at the Tshwane University of Technology in Pretoria, she had to attend classes with a hearing partner because the university did not provide accessible lectures. After working at Standard Bank, Victoria decided to leave her corporate job and start Voiceout Deaf Farming. She saw that many Deaf people struggled to find employment and often had to rely on government grants. Through her initiative, Victoria hopes to teach Deaf people valuable agricultural skills, helping them become independent and earn a living. Voiceout Deaf Farming is more than just a farm — it is a safe and accessible space where Deaf individuals can come together, learn, socialize, and gain skills that empower them to build their own businesses.

In Ibadan, a group of amateur Deaf dancers led by Omowunmi Otunuyi is capturing the attention of their community. The group’s outstanding performances have amazed the audience, who are often surprised to learn that the dancers are Deaf. One of the dancers proudly said, “I am Deaf, but I can perform using sign language.”  The dancers’ talent and dedication have impressed the Nigerian art and culture community, earning them opportunities to showcase their skills. Professional coach Samuel trains the group and collaborates with the Seeme Deaf Foundation to challenge stereotypes about Deaf people. The dancers combine sign language movements with music and rhythm, proving that being Deaf does not limit their ability to perform. Despite initial doubts from some people, the group continues to inspire others by
demonstrating that talent and passion transcend hearing ability.