Latest news with #LachlanKeating
Scoop
29-04-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Breaking Barriers & Coming Together: Deaf Aotearoa Hosts The First NZSL Inclusive Coffee Tasting Event With Starbucks
Deaf Aotearoa is thrilled to announce a unique and inclusive coffee tasting event in collaboration with Starbucks, set to take place on May 6th at 12 PM across five locations in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. This event aims to unite Deaf and hearing communities in celebrating coffee, culture, and accessibility. Together, we are breaking down barriers for the Deaf community, enabling them to participate in activities that are traditionally hosted for hearing audiences. Starbucks will host coffee tasting events at five of their key locations, with Deaf Aotearoa supporting this with NZSL interpreters through their interpreter booking service iSign, ensuring that Deaf participants can fully engage and enjoy the experience. This initiative highlights both organisations' commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of community. Starbucks will also be taking donations from May 6 through May 11 at the till to allow Kiwis to also break down barriers for the Deaf community, with 100% of the donations from Starbucks fundraising efforts going directly to Deaf Aotearoa in support for the Deaf community. Event Details: Highlights: Free coffee tasting event open to the public, both hearing and Deaf NZSL interpreters available to promote inclusivity and highlight the use of NZSL in everyday spaces to hearing peers Opportunity for Deaf and hearing individuals to come together and connect over coffee Workplaces near the five locations are being encouraged to take their lunch break at their local Starbucks to participate in the event Deaf Aoteaora is inviting Kiwis to visit a nearby store on their way to work from 6 – 11 May to make a donation and contribute to the fundraising efforts 'We are excited to partner with Starbucks to create an inclusive event that welcomes everyone,' said Lachlan Keating, CEO of Deaf Aotearoa. 'Partnering with businesses like Starbucks is crucial for Deaf Aotearoa as it helps us create more inclusive and accessible experiences for the Deaf community. These collaborations not only raise awareness about the importance of accessibility but also demonstrate a commitment to breaking down barriers that Deaf individuals often face.' All too often Deaf individuals face barriers in everyday life – ordering a coffee, getting a haircut or understanding a diagnosis from the doctor can be more complex for a Deaf person. Making events more accessible, especially those typically targeted at the hearing community, is incredibly meaningful. It allows Deaf individuals to fully participate and enjoy activities that they might otherwise be excluded from. Deaf Aotearoa is committed to breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for Deaf people to be fully included. 'This coffee tasting event is a wonderful opportunity for the Deaf community to enjoy a shared experience with the hearing community, and we hope it encourages more events like this in the future.' We spoke to Lara Draper, a local Deaf person, and asked her what having these events accessible meant to her, 'As a Deaf person, having coffee tasting events accessible in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is a fantastic step towards inclusivity. It not only makes the Deaf community visible, but also encourages everyone to learn and use sign language. By making these coffee taster events accessible, it is promoting a culture where Deaf people can fully participate and feel valued. It's a reminder that inclusivity benefits everyone and that learning to sign can bridge communication gaps, making every day experiences richer for all.' Everyone is encouraged to come along, support this inclusive initiative, enjoy Starbucks coffee, and maybe even learn a sign or two.
Scoop
29-04-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Breaking Barriers & Coming Together: Deaf Aotearoa Hosts The First NZSL Inclusive Coffee Tasting Event With Starbucks
Press Release – Deaf Aotearoa Starbucks will host coffee tasting events at five of their key locations, with Deaf Aotearoa supporting this with NZSL interpreters through their interpreter booking service iSign, ensuring that Deaf participants can fully engage and enjoy the experience. Deaf Aotearoa is thrilled to announce a unique and inclusive coffee tasting event in collaboration with Starbucks, set to take place on May 6th at 12 PM across five locations in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. This event aims to unite Deaf and hearing communities in celebrating coffee, culture, and accessibility. Together, we are breaking down barriers for the Deaf community, enabling them to participate in activities that are traditionally hosted for hearing audiences. Starbucks will host coffee tasting events at five of their key locations, with Deaf Aotearoa supporting this with NZSL interpreters through their interpreter booking service iSign, ensuring that Deaf participants can fully engage and enjoy the experience. This initiative highlights both organisations' commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of community. Starbucks will also be taking donations from May 6 through May 11 at the till to allow Kiwis to also break down barriers for the Deaf community, with 100% of the donations from Starbucks fundraising efforts going directly to Deaf Aotearoa in support for the Deaf community. Event Details: Highlights: Free coffee tasting event open to the public, both hearing and Deaf NZSL interpreters available to promote inclusivity and highlight the use of NZSL in everyday spaces to hearing peers Opportunity for Deaf and hearing individuals to come together and connect over coffee Workplaces near the five locations are being encouraged to take their lunch break at their local Starbucks to participate in the event Deaf Aoteaora is inviting Kiwis to visit a nearby store on their way to work from 6 – 11 May to make a donation and contribute to the fundraising efforts 'We are excited to partner with Starbucks to create an inclusive event that welcomes everyone,' said Lachlan Keating, CEO of Deaf Aotearoa. 'Partnering with businesses like Starbucks is crucial for Deaf Aotearoa as it helps us create more inclusive and accessible experiences for the Deaf community. These collaborations not only raise awareness about the importance of accessibility but also demonstrate a commitment to breaking down barriers that Deaf individuals often face.' All too often Deaf individuals face barriers in everyday life – ordering a coffee, getting a haircut or understanding a diagnosis from the doctor can be more complex for a Deaf person. Making events more accessible, especially those typically targeted at the hearing community, is incredibly meaningful. It allows Deaf individuals to fully participate and enjoy activities that they might otherwise be excluded from. Deaf Aotearoa is committed to breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for Deaf people to be fully included. 'This coffee tasting event is a wonderful opportunity for the Deaf community to enjoy a shared experience with the hearing community, and we hope it encourages more events like this in the future.' We spoke to Lara Draper, a local Deaf person, and asked her what having these events accessible meant to her, 'As a Deaf person, having coffee tasting events accessible in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is a fantastic step towards inclusivity. It not only makes the Deaf community visible, but also encourages everyone to learn and use sign language. By making these coffee taster events accessible, it is promoting a culture where Deaf people can fully participate and feel valued. It's a reminder that inclusivity benefits everyone and that learning to sign can bridge communication gaps, making every day experiences richer for all.' Everyone is encouraged to come along, support this inclusive initiative, enjoy Starbucks coffee, and maybe even learn a sign or two.
Scoop
29-04-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Breaking Barriers & Coming Together: Deaf Aotearoa Hosts The First NZSL Inclusive Coffee Tasting Event With Starbucks
Deaf Aotearoa is thrilled to announce a unique and inclusive coffee tasting event in collaboration with Starbucks, set to take place on May 6th at 12 PM across five locations in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. This event aims to unite Deaf and hearing communities in celebrating coffee, culture, and accessibility. Together, we are breaking down barriers for the Deaf community, enabling them to participate in activities that are traditionally hosted for hearing audiences. Starbucks will host coffee tasting events at five of their key locations, with Deaf Aotearoa supporting this with NZSL interpreters through their interpreter booking service iSign, ensuring that Deaf participants can fully engage and enjoy the experience. This initiative highlights both organisations' commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of community. Starbucks will also be taking donations from May 6 through May 11 at the till to allow Kiwis to also break down barriers for the Deaf community, with 100% of the donations from Starbucks fundraising efforts going directly to Deaf Aotearoa in support for the Deaf community. Event Details: Highlights: Free coffee tasting event open to the public, both hearing and Deaf NZSL interpreters available to promote inclusivity and highlight the use of NZSL in everyday spaces to hearing peers Opportunity for Deaf and hearing individuals to come together and connect over coffee Workplaces near the five locations are being encouraged to take their lunch break at their local Starbucks to participate in the event Deaf Aoteaora is inviting Kiwis to visit a nearby store on their way to work from 6 – 11 May to make a donation and contribute to the fundraising efforts "We are excited to partner with Starbucks to create an inclusive event that welcomes everyone," said Lachlan Keating, CEO of Deaf Aotearoa. "Partnering with businesses like Starbucks is crucial for Deaf Aotearoa as it helps us create more inclusive and accessible experiences for the Deaf community. These collaborations not only raise awareness about the importance of accessibility but also demonstrate a commitment to breaking down barriers that Deaf individuals often face.' All too often Deaf individuals face barriers in everyday life - ordering a coffee, getting a haircut or understanding a diagnosis from the doctor can be more complex for a Deaf person. Making events more accessible, especially those typically targeted at the hearing community, is incredibly meaningful. It allows Deaf individuals to fully participate and enjoy activities that they might otherwise be excluded from. Deaf Aotearoa is committed to breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for Deaf people to be fully included. 'This coffee tasting event is a wonderful opportunity for the Deaf community to enjoy a shared experience with the hearing community, and we hope it encourages more events like this in the future.' We spoke to Lara Draper, a local Deaf person, and asked her what having these events accessible meant to her, 'As a Deaf person, having coffee tasting events accessible in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) is a fantastic step towards inclusivity. It not only makes the Deaf community visible, but also encourages everyone to learn and use sign language. By making these coffee taster events accessible, it is promoting a culture where Deaf people can fully participate and feel valued. It's a reminder that inclusivity benefits everyone and that learning to sign can bridge communication gaps, making every day experiences richer for all.' Everyone is encouraged to come along, support this inclusive initiative, enjoy Starbucks coffee, and maybe even learn a sign or two.
Scoop
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
NZSL Week Promotes An Aotearoa Where Anyone Can Sign Anywhere
Press Release – Deaf Aotearoa Its time to change the perception that NZSL is only for Deaf people, says Deaf Aotearoa Chief Executive Lachlan Keating. This is a legitimate language that can be embraced by all of us. When more people use NZSL, we create a more inclusive … New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Week is back from Monday 5th to Sunday 11th May, championing NZSL as a vital lifeline for Deaf people—and a powerful, practical tool for everyone. From crossing a noisy street to communicating underwater or in a loud crowd, NZSL offers everyday convenience for hearing people too. 'It's time to change the perception that NZSL is only for Deaf people,' says Deaf Aotearoa Chief Executive Lachlan Keating. 'This is a legitimate language that can be embraced by all of us. When more people use NZSL, we create a more inclusive and connected Aotearoa.' Run by Deaf Aotearoa, NZSL Week is a powerful opportunity for all New Zealanders to celebrate NZSL as one of the country's three official languages – and to recognise the important role it plays in building connection, communication and inclusion for Deaf people. This year, Deaf Aotearoa is proud to introduce Rosie Solouota as the 2025 New Zealand Sign Language Hero. Born and raised in Wellington, Rosie became profoundly Deaf as a baby after contracting measles. It wasn't until the age of 12 that she was introduced to NZSL, unlocking a world of confidence, identity, community – and ultimately, a fulfilling career teaching the language she loves. Rosie is a single mother of three, and a qualified NZSL tutor who shares the joy of the language with people from all walks of life. 'NZSL isn't just for Deaf people – it's for everyone,' says Rosie. 'When more people in Aotearoa learn to sign, it helps Deaf people feel seen, included, and part of the conversation.' New resources now available To help schools, early childhood centres, workplaces and community groups get involved, Deaf Aotearoa has created free downloadable resources, now live in the resources section of the new NZSL website: Resources include posters, pamphlets, online videos and beginner-level signs to try with friends, whānau or workmates. Whether learning a few greetings or hosting a signing session at work – every small action counts. Why inclusion matters New Zealand Sign Language is more than a set of hand gestures – it's the cornerstone of Deaf culture, a vibrant, visual language that allows Deaf people to fully connect with others, build relationships and express themselves. By giving NZSL a go, Kiwis can help create spaces where Deaf people can thrive – whether that's on the sports field, at school, in the workplace or at community events. 'Inclusion is about showing up in ways that matter,' says Keating. 'Having an interpreter at your next event, offering NZSL videos on your website, or learning just a few signs can make a world of difference. NZSL is a taonga – and it's one we can all help promote, use and celebrate.' Get involved Join thousands of Kiwis this May and be part of a movement towards a more inclusive Aotearoa – one where anyone can sign, anywhere.
Scoop
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
NZSL Week Promotes An Aotearoa Where Anyone Can Sign Anywhere
New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Week is back from Monday 5th to Sunday 11th May, championing NZSL as a vital lifeline for Deaf people—and a powerful, practical tool for everyone. From crossing a noisy street to communicating underwater or in a loud crowd, NZSL offers everyday convenience for hearing people too. 'It's time to change the perception that NZSL is only for Deaf people,' says Deaf Aotearoa Chief Executive Lachlan Keating. 'This is a legitimate language that can be embraced by all of us. When more people use NZSL, we create a more inclusive and connected Aotearoa.' Run by Deaf Aotearoa, NZSL Week is a powerful opportunity for all New Zealanders to celebrate NZSL as one of the country's three official languages – and to recognise the important role it plays in building connection, communication and inclusion for Deaf people. This year, Deaf Aotearoa is proud to introduce Rosie Solouota as the 2025 New Zealand Sign Language Hero. Born and raised in Wellington, Rosie became profoundly Deaf as a baby after contracting measles. It wasn't until the age of 12 that she was introduced to NZSL, unlocking a world of confidence, identity, community – and ultimately, a fulfilling career teaching the language she loves. Rosie is a single mother of three, and a qualified NZSL tutor who shares the joy of the language with people from all walks of life. 'NZSL isn't just for Deaf people – it's for everyone,' says Rosie. 'When more people in Aotearoa learn to sign, it helps Deaf people feel seen, included, and part of the conversation.' New resources now available To help schools, early childhood centres, workplaces and community groups get involved, Deaf Aotearoa has created free downloadable resources, now live in the resources section of the new NZSL website: Resources include posters, pamphlets, online videos and beginner-level signs to try with friends, whānau or workmates. Whether learning a few greetings or hosting a signing session at work – every small action counts. Why inclusion matters New Zealand Sign Language is more than a set of hand gestures – it's the cornerstone of Deaf culture, a vibrant, visual language that allows Deaf people to fully connect with others, build relationships and express themselves. By giving NZSL a go, Kiwis can help create spaces where Deaf people can thrive – whether that's on the sports field, at school, in the workplace or at community events. 'Inclusion is about showing up in ways that matter,' says Keating. 'Having an interpreter at your next event, offering NZSL videos on your website, or learning just a few signs can make a world of difference. NZSL is a taonga – and it's one we can all help promote, use and celebrate.' Get involved Join thousands of Kiwis this May and be part of a movement towards a more inclusive Aotearoa – one where anyone can sign, anywhere.
