During the first Power of Speech programme presented in Africa, Ms Mia Wiener, mother of a child whose hearing was tested as an infant, explained to Members what a difference it made in her child's life, 7 March 2024

At 09:00 on Thursday, 7 March 2024, the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, in collaboration with the Carel du Toit Centre, hosted the first Power of Speech programme in Africa.

The Power of Speech programme is an initiative during which centres where deaf children learn to speak, can highlight the achievements of children who are deaf and use spoken language. During the programme the children will showcase what is possible by utilising hearing technology. The programme also seeks to provide a platform for parents to share their experiences with the Members of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament.

Power of Speech programmes have been held in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. The first Power of Speech programmes was held at the House of Commons in England, followed by the Parliament of New South Wales, Australia in 2022. Another one is scheduled to take place in Queensland, Australia on 6 March 2024.

The Carel du Toit Centre in Cape Town is a special needs education centre where children with hearing impairment learn spoken language by using hearing technology, natural learning experiences and parental guidance.

To view the livestreamed footage of the event, click here.

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