Why Volunteer?
As a Child of Deaf Adults (Coda), my journey into the world of volunteering is deeply intertwined with my personal experiences and values. Growing up with Deaf parents, sign language was not just a mode of communication; it was the very essence of my upbringing. My parents Deaf culture shaped my identity and fostered a profound connection to the Deaf community, which felt like home to me.
When I first learned about the opportunity to serve as a Deaf Advocacy and Empowerment Mentor at the Wangsel Institute for the Deaf, my initial reaction was one of hesitation. Despite my passion for advocacy and empowerment, I couldn't shake the feeling that this role should rightfully belong to someone from the Deaf community itself. However, upon discovering that no deaf individuals had applied, I was encouraged by Australian Volunteers International (AVI) to step forward and lend my voice to this important cause. And when I learned that this journey would lead me to the kingdom of Bhutan, it felt like fate had intervened, adding sprinkles and a cherry on top of an already enticing opportunity.
As a volunteer Deaf Advocacy and Empowerment Mentor, I am privileged to be a part of a transformative journey, working hand in hand with the Deaf community to champion inclusivity and pave the way for a more accessible world for all. My role encompasses three primary objectives:
1. Upskilling Deaf individuals in self, individual, and systematic advocacy,
2. Laying the groundwork for the Bhutanese Deaf community to establish its own organisation with the aim of becoming a member of the World Federation of the Deaf, and
3. Supporting the local Deaf community in identifying essential skills and practices to become Deaf role models within their community and beyond, across Bhutan.
These objectives resonate deeply with my core values of equality and empowerment for all individuals. For me, advocating for the rights and dignity of the Deaf isn't just a noble endeavour—it's a fundamental human right. It's about recognising the inherent worth and potential of every individual, regardless of their abilities or differences, and empowering them to fully participate in and contribute to society.
In essence, volunteering isn't just about giving back; it's about standing up for what we believe in and taking meaningful action to create positive change in the world. By lending our time, skills, and voices to causes that matter, we not only enrich the lives of others but also nurture our own sense of purpose and fulfillment. And as I embark on this journey of service and advocacy, I am reminded that the true measure of our humanity lies in our capacity to uplift and empower one another, one act of kindness at a time.
So, why volunteer? Because every gesture, no matter how small, has the power to make a difference in the lives of others and in the world we share. And in doing so, we not only create a brighter future for those we serve but also for ourselves, as we cultivate a legacy of compassion, understanding, and hope for generations to come.
