At the beginning of August, we organised in Predeal the workshop “Beyond Senses”, part of the “Global Inclusive Education Project”, funded by Nelumbo Foundation and Sense International UK. It was a special meeting, attended by 8 members of our group of people with deafblindness, formed over time, alongside 2 family members and a Romanian sign language interpreter. During the workshop, they debated the idea of ​​establishing an association of people with deafblindness that would actively campaign for their rights and beyond.

Deafblindness taught me about patience, about acceptance, first of all, acceptance of myself, and after that it taught me about acceptance of others. It taught me gentleness towards myself, and after that, gentleness towards others. – Oana

The first half of the first day was dedicated to the Global Resource Hub, an integral part of the “Global Inclusive Education Project”, developed by colleagues in the UK. The Hub, which will become a valuable resource for people with hearing and vision impairments, was presented to the group, which provided important feedback and suggestions. After the discussions, the participants filled out a questionnaire, and all the information collected was sent to the UK team.

I am with a group of friends, also deafblind, trailblazers with whom we want and hope to succeed in creating a strong group and association. - Crina

In the second part of the day, discussions focused on the opportunity to establish an association of deafblind people. After debates and consultations, the group decided to take this important step. Three of the participants, Oana, Iulian and Crina, took responsibility for founding the association, establishing its name, goals and objectives, with the support of the other members. The evening ended with a barbecue organised by the participants and a basketball game, strengthening the bonds between them.

The second day of the workshop was dedicated to exploring nature. We travelled by train to Azuga, where we took a gondola ride up the mountain, enjoyed spectacular scenery, fresh air, and a delicious picnic. This nature experience was the perfect opportunity to continue discussions about the association in a relaxing and inspiring setting. Upon our return, the participants were greeted with a surprise Arabic-style dinner, which was enthusiastically received by all present.

At the meetings with Sense I always felt like I was in a big family. – Oana

The workshop “Beyond Senses” was a wonderful experience, which strengthened the group and brought the dream of an association dedicated to people with deafblindness even closer to reality. The activities carried out helped the personal and collective development of the participants, transforming this meeting into a valuable opportunity for learning, collaboration and mutual support.

Finally, we thank the participants for their commitment and energy, which inspire us every time to continue. We also thank Monica Cătuțoiu, a Romanian sign language interpreter, for her help in communication, and the Medieval Guesthouse in Predeal for their hospitality and constant support.

What thoughts do you have after the meetings with Sense?
With the thought of change! With the thought that it can be better! - Iulian