Include Us - Zimbabwe Deaf people and Families.

In Zimbabwe, deafness is often shrouded in myths and misconceptions, creating a significant barrier for parents to accept and understand their child's condition. These cultural beliefs can often lead to isolation and reluctance to seek help, with many parents initially refusing to visit the Nzeve center for fear of societal judgement.

Nzeve, with its Early Communication Development classes, provides a supportive and accepting environment that fosters education and growth for both children and their parents. As parents meet other families navigating similar circumstances and witness the strides and achievements of other deaf children, they become more willing to participate in the daily classes. 

These classes serve as a means for both children and parents to learn sign language together, a critical tool for facilitating communication. One mother shared her transformational journey, "At first my child would cry all the time and I didn’t know what to do. After coming to Nzeve, we learnt signs. Now he can tell me what he wants. He says mama I am hungry when he’s hungry. He’s now such a good boy."

Nzeve has become more than just a learning place; it has evolved into a community of mutual support and solidarity. Mothers find strength in each other, sharing experiences and discussing solutions to various challenges they face. The same mother further emphasized, "We made so many friends at Nzeve. All mothers support us. We counsel each other and share ideas about different challenges that we face. Nzeve has not only helped my child but also me to understand and support me in bringing up a deaf child."

The work of the Nzeve is transforming the lives of deaf children and their families. By breaking down societal barriers and providing a platform for education and mutual support, the center is fostering a positive shift in attitudes towards deafness and empowering families to better understand and support their children's needs. The journey of this mother and her child is one of many, serving as a testament to the profound impact the Nzeve is making within the community.