For the Deaf Centre Youth Group at SVP Deaf Centre in Newcastle, KEY+ was an opportunity to use their voices, share their experiences and raise awareness of the deaf community.
The group decided to create a video podcast about deaf awareness, sharing their experiences, tips and insights to help others better understand the deaf community. The group purchased microphones and lighting, giving them the equipment they needed to bring their idea to life.
For Beatrice, being able to use their voices was an important part of the project: “Being able to voice our opinions, ideas and suggestions.”
The group worked together to plan the podcast, creating a mind map and assigning different topics to each person. They also took ownership of editing their video, adding subtitles and a deaf interpreter to make the finished podcast accessible.
Although editing proved challenging, it gave the young people the opportunity to develop new skills and experiences.
We asked the group what they enjoyed the most about the project. Beatrice enjoyed “EVERYTHING!”, while Emma enjoyed “the editing because we could learn about it.” Emily said “I enjoyed editing the videos and speaking myself” and “I’ve changed in different ways [thanks to KEY+] – I think my teamwork skills have become better.” Daniel “loved sharing my favourite activities”, while Jeremy’s favourite part was “how the animals were in the background [of the podcast video].”
Throughout the project, the group became more confident in sharing their thoughts and recognising the power of their own voices. Beatrice reflected: “My voice has been heard, making me feel more confident to share my ideas.”
The experience also helped Beatrice see the difference they could make in their community: “It has made me feel like I am capable of changing the community for the better and like I have a powerful voice.”
For Daniel, creating the podcast was a chance to showcase new skills and demonstrate what the group could achieve together: “The podcast proved our group can make captivating shows.” Daniel also said: “The podcasting has been a great way to show the importance of the deaf centre.”
The group were proud not only of the finished podcast, but of the opportunity to share something that mattered to them. Beatrice reflected that “no matter your age, you can still take part in spreading awareness.” Emma was proud of “being able to experience how I can express myself,” while Emily highlighted “how well the youth group worked together.” Daniel was proud of “how I presented my thoughts,” and Jeremy valued being able to “show people what we did as a group.”
The experience also helped the group develop skills and confidence that they could carry into their futures. Beatrice highlighted “clear communication and understanding others’ opinions,” while Emma learnt how to edit videos, saying “I learnt how I can edit videos which can help me during work.” Emily developed greater confidence and teamwork skills, explaining “boost [in] confidence and working as a group.” For Daniel, the experience helped develop presentation skills that could support future opportunities: “I believe I showcased my presentation skills which would be useful in interviews.”
The experience showed how young people can use their ideas, voices and creativity to raise awareness, challenge perceptions and create positive change.
Reflecting on the experience, Beatrice encouraged other young people to get involved: “I would encourage them to participate as it’s never too late to start thinking about your future and all your ideas matter and are heard.”
Emma also gave advice to young people saying: “They should do what matters most to them and their group.”
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The Key