Indian Express and its story
Pune News
It is easy to have dreams...but difficult to realise them. To do that one needs the support of family, friends, wellwishers and God. We, at Avanti!!, got lucky last weekend!
We had at the workshop, veterans workers for the Deaf like Mrs. Dhun Adenwala, Mrs. Geeta Sanadi, Mrs. Lagu, deaf adults/children with families, hearing youngsters wanting to make a difference and our own team. We also had our duo from AYJIHH Mumbai - Shafique and Tushar.
It was an emotionally charged weekend...we discussed ignorance, arrogance, apathy and lack of facilities and opportunity - educational and vocational - in India. The deaf came up to share their experiences and there were many in the crowd who broke down and cried. There were plenty of laughs when the instructors began to teach some basic signs and many hearing people signed clumsily. We learnt a lot and by the time the workshop was over, a bond was established between the hearing and the deaf. It was an almost spiritual experience...one we'll carry with us for ever.
Much needs to be done, we know. But atleast our foot is now firmly in the door.
Our next logical step is to set up classes in the Sign Language in Pune. We plan to begin in June. Mail us at avanti-pune@hotmail.com if you are interested in reaching out to the world - special and ordinary.
Pune News
It is easy to have dreams...but difficult to realise them. To do that one needs the support of family, friends, wellwishers and God. We, at Avanti!!, got lucky last weekend!
We had at the workshop, veterans workers for the Deaf like Mrs. Dhun Adenwala, Mrs. Geeta Sanadi, Mrs. Lagu, deaf adults/children with families, hearing youngsters wanting to make a difference and our own team. We also had our duo from AYJIHH Mumbai - Shafique and Tushar.
It was an emotionally charged weekend...we discussed ignorance, arrogance, apathy and lack of facilities and opportunity - educational and vocational - in India. The deaf came up to share their experiences and there were many in the crowd who broke down and cried. There were plenty of laughs when the instructors began to teach some basic signs and many hearing people signed clumsily. We learnt a lot and by the time the workshop was over, a bond was established between the hearing and the deaf. It was an almost spiritual experience...one we'll carry with us for ever.
Much needs to be done, we know. But atleast our foot is now firmly in the door.
Our next logical step is to set up classes in the Sign Language in Pune. We plan to begin in June. Mail us at avanti-pune@hotmail.com if you are interested in reaching out to the world - special and ordinary.
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