BREAKING THE SOUND BARRIER
Azima Dhanjee’s Deafening Success Story
By Abeeha Asad
By Abeeha Asad
Imagine starting a revolution for inclusivity at the age of 19. It sounds like a plot twist from a superhero movie, right? Well, that’s Azima Dhanjee’s real-life story. This powerhouse from Pakistan is not just breaking barriers; she’s smashing them to pieces and building bridges with the debris.
At just 19, Azima embarked on her journey with ConnectHear, aiming to make sign language accessible to all. Despite challenges in a landscape with limited sign language awareness and interpretation services, her passion drove her forward. Today, Connect Hear stands as a testament to her resilience, empowering deaf individuals across sectors by bridging communication gaps.
One of Azima’s primary goals with ConnectHear is to increase public awareness and acceptance of the deaf community. She envisions all public and private spaces being accessible for people with disabilities, just as they are for everyone else.
“We hope to take our technology global and welcome anyone interested in adopting it in other countries,”
ConnectHear is all about making technology work for inclusivity and breaking down barriers that keep people apart. Azima’s philosophy is all about inclusivity.
“Have your disability lens on in whatever work you do,”
This isn’t just Azima’s journey or ConnectHear’s journey—it’s a collective responsibility. She emphasizes the importance of making every aspect of life accessible to people with disabilities.
“You’d be shocked to see how much they’re ready to work and be part of our economy. They just need a platform.”
Azima emphasizes that empowering the deaf community is a shared responsibility.
“Keep your disability lens on. If you see a lack of accessibility, raise your voice,”
Small actions, like requesting subtitles in a movie theater, can make a significant difference.
“As you enter the workforce or start your businesses, ensure you can assist people with disabilities and give them employment opportunities,”
Azima credits her family’s support, Aga Khan Development Network, and Gerry Higgins for inspiring her social entrepreneurship. Her IBA education, especially in social marketing, prepared her for effective social change. ConnectHear’s first deaf-inclusive concert with Strings in 2018 was a monumental moment.
“It showed that if music can be accessible for deaf people, anything can be,”
Azima explains. The ConnectHear app has made every day work easier, including enabling deaf individuals to communicate directly with the police.
“We have deaf individuals doing instrumental work in the corporate industry, presenting just like anyone else,”
Technology fills the communication gap for the deaf community, much like Google Translator does for different languages.
“The ConnectHear application enables interpretation at any time, anywhere in the world,”
The goal is to further automate the process, making it even more accessible. Azima recognizes the power of digital media in creating social change.
“Digital media has a lot of power. It made a huge difference in our journey”,
Using multiple social platforms has been crucial for ConnectHear’s success.
“The support system and initial audience came from digital media”,
ConnectHear’s innovative approach has garnered attention and support.
“When we started posting videos with sign language, the deaf community and hearing community alike were amazed,”
Companies reached out for interpretation services, and the deaf community sought interpreters for various needs.
“We realized there was a huge gap in society that we could help bridge,”
Azima’s advice is pure gold for anyone looking to dive into social entrepreneurship.
“First, find the problem. Entrepreneurship might look cool, but focus on solving real issues,”
Bootstrapping is the key. ConnectHear started with a Facebook page because it was free.
“Use free platforms like Instagram to raise awareness. Don’t let the lack of funds stop you,”
And most importantly, ask for help.
“Reaching out has been incredibly beneficial for me. Don’t let shyness hold you back.”
Azima’s story is a testament to the impact of determination, inclusivity, and the power of a supportive community. Her journey from interpreting for her parents as a child to leading a social enterprise that transforms lives is truly inspirational.
“Stay true to your passion and goals, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help,”
She advises young entrepreneurs.
