Bridging the Gap Between the Hearing & Deaf Worlds
Instead of talking about the benefits of learning sign languages and why you should learn it, I want to talk about my own personal reasons on why I want to learn sign language.
Because as much as everyone has their own reasons and there are many benefits to learning any languages in general let alone sign language, I have my reasons which I explain in this podcast.
You may have seen via ‘My BSL Journey’, where I document my early stages of learning British Sign Language, that I actually use a form of Sign Supported English instead of a true BSL.
But what is Sign Supported English and how is it different to British Sign Language?
In episode 14, I talk to Rob and Adam from the British pop-rock band ‘Chasing Deer’ about how they have incorporated BSL into their music and their passion around making their gigs deaf-friendly so that everyone can enjoy their music, regardless of whether you are hearing or d/Deaf.
Even though I have been learning BSL (British Sign Language) for a few months now, I was thinking about ways to make myself accountable.
It’s so easy to trail off your latest interests, passions and hobbies after the initial excitements. It’s no surprise that many people give up their New Year resolutions in February every single year.
Thankfully for me, I have continued to keep learning BSL but in order to keep myself accountable and also document my progress, I have decided to start ‘My BSL Journey’, which will document my journey as I learn British Sign Language.
In episode 9 of the podcast, I chat with Wayne Barrow, a CODA (child of Deaf adults) and a sign-singing performer where he performs online and also runs his own business where he teaches other people to sign-sing to popular music.
Wayne is also a huge advocate of having British Sign Language taught at school too and is campaigning to make it happen.
In episode 5 of the podcast, I chat with Abbi Brown, an advocate for disabled people who has also gone through a major surgery to help her with hearing and improve the quality of her life.
In episode 1 of the podcast, I chat with John Smith, a Deaf comedian from Beautiful BSL who has entertained the audience across the world using sign language.
John has also appeared in various press and TV too, as well as performing in theatres and clubs.
