Brothers Spearhead Inclusive Tech Revolution for the Deaf Community
In the heart of Cyprus, a new chapter in technological inclusivity is being written by two pioneering brothers, George and Dr. Alexandros Geratziotis. Their creation, Connect Deaf, stands as a beacon of hope and innovation for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.
George’s academic journey at the University of Nicosia and later at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in South Africa led him to an unsettling discovery about the lack of technological resources for the deaf community. This realization sparked a determination to make a change. “It was like a lightbulb moment,” George recalls. The result was a mobile application that allowed for sign language communication, which quickly became the focus of his master’s thesis.
Alexandros, fresh from completing his PhD in information technology, was conducting research on usability and user experience design for deaf users at the Cyprus Interaction Lab. His findings echoed George’s concerns about the accessibility gap in technology for the deaf community. Together, they launched Connect Deaf in 2017, a Cypriot SME dedicated to breaking down barriers and promoting equal access.
Their flagship product, the Sign Language Alphabet Keyboard Mobile Application (MAKeySL), is a groundbreaking mobile application compatible with Android and iOS platforms. It integrates sign language into popular social media and messaging platforms, such as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, enabling seamless communication for deaf users.
MAKeySL supports 13 different sign language alphabets, including American, British, and Greek, among others. This diversity not only enhances digital accessibility but also encourages the learning and appreciation of sign language across different cultures.
The app’s success is evident in the feedback from users like Mike Panayiotou who have benefited from Connect Deaf’s seminars. He acknowledges the support from corporations such as Cyta in improving accessibility for the deaf community. Despina Ioannou, president of the Cyprus Deaf Association, also commends Connect Deaf for creating functionally accessible spaces that transcend basic accommodations for hearing loss.
As Connect Deaf continues to innovate and expand its reach, its founders remain committed to their vision of a society where everyone has equal opportunities to communicate. “This journey is about more than technology; it’s about creating a society where everyone has a voice,” Alexandros reflects. George adds, “We’re not just breaking down barriers; we’re building bridges.”
Their story is a testament to the power of vision and dedication in transforming the lives of those who face communication challenges every day. It’s a narrative that underscores the importance of inclusivity in app development and the profound impact it can have on communities like the hard-of-hearing.