Celebrate NZSL Week with Melanie

To celebrate New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) week, one of Geneva’s Deaf employees, Melanie, shares her story about her search for employment, and how she found a team that was the perfect fit for her, with the help from Geneva Elevator’s Supported Employment programme.

Before Melanie came to Geneva, she had experienced barriers when applying online for jobs herself, and most employers turned her down. According to her, employers are not aware of the abilities and the skills that Deaf people have, not realising that they too can achieve anything in any roles.

You will be surprised how good Deaf people can be to be successful.

There are many free taster classes and events throughout NZSL week. This is a great opportunity for everyone to learn Sign Language. NZSL is an official language of Aotearoa, it has its own structure and grammar and is unique to New Zealand and its Deaf Community. You can also learn Sign Language in your own time by using NZSL dictionary, simply follow this link https://www.nzsl.nz/

I would like for the Deaf community to feel normalised with communicating in NZSL and being treated like everyone else. 

If you have a disability, injury or health concern, Geneva Elevator can help you achieve your goals with Supported Employment, Skills Training and Job Placement. Click here to learn more about their work.