On August 8, 2024, VOSAP hosted a virtual meeting to connect with beneficiaries of the Signable App, a groundbreaking tool that empowers the hearing-impaired community. The VOSAP Founders Shri Pranav and Usha Desai from the US and team from India engaged with these beneficiaries to explore how the app has transformed their lives, enabling effective communication, giving independence and overcoming significant barriers.
The Signable App on mobile phone, provides live Indian sign language interpretation with just a tap, making real-time communication accessible. VOSAP’s support includes a subsidy covering an 11-month subscription, benefiting over 700 hearing-impaired individuals so far, with an ambitious goal to empower over 10,000 people in the next three years as a catalyst of transformation.
During the call, we uncovered remarkable stories of how the app is being used across different aspects of life:
Nisha Kumari from Gurgaon: Nisha, along with her husband, both of whom are hearing impaired, used the Signable App to manage the construction of their house. The app has allowed them to communicate seamlessly with vendors, breaking down communication barriers. Nisha in a high energy interaction in sign language, expressed her deep gratitude, saying, “We don’t worry about any communication barriers because we use this service, and we will continue to use it.” She encouraged others, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence and perseverance. Both husband and wife have no support from either of their families and still decided to construct their house in Gurugram! Kudos to her spirit and the technology that enabled their dreams!
Anshul Soni from Bhopal: Anshul, an Assistant Executive at IGNOU Open University, with the app’s help, he has become more independent, using it for various needs, from banking to securing a home loan and all the tedious conversation to get the loan! He expressed his appreciation for VOSAP’s subsidy, which has made a significant impact on his ability to communicate effectively.
Veenu Talwar from Delhi: A single mother and Dispatch Executive at JNU’s Central Library, Veenu uses the Signable App to stay connected with colleagues, family, and service providers. The app has become an essential tool for managing her daily life, from her children’s tuition to interacting with doctors and medical appointments.
Mallikarjun Reddy from Andhra Pradesh: As a senior accountant at the GMC office, Mallikarjun found VOSAP’s subsidy crucial in making the app’s interpretation services affordable. The app has replaced the need for a personal interpreter, allowing him to communicate more effectively with his family, colleagues, and government officials.
Shivam from Bhopal: Working as a trainer at an NGO focused on youth job placements, Shivam uses the app to communicate with lawyers, placement officers, and his family. The app has made it easier for him to perform his job and assist other hearing impaired to get the job!
These stories underscore the profound impact of the Signable App, made possible through VOSAP’s Subsidy Support, by providing individuals with the tools they need to navigate a world that often overlooks their unique challenges. The subsidy has been a crucial factor in making this technology accessible and viable to a larger population of hearing-impaired individuals, who might otherwise struggle a lot!
