Team Goemkarponn
PONDA: In a monumental step toward inclusivity and empowerment, Human Touch Foundation has launched “Hands Speak, Mind Grow”, a unique series of workshops addressing Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) for deaf adolescents.
This innovative program, which commenced at Lokvishwas Pratisthan, Ponda on 9th December 2024, aims to reach most deaf adolescents across Goa, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead informed, confident, and healthy lives.
“For far too long, deaf students have been overlooked in conversations about sexual and reproductive health – a topic critical to their well-being but often dismissed in silence,” said Peter F. Borges, Founder of Human Touch Foundation. “It’s time to break that silence and empower them with the knowledge they deserve.”
The workshop was led by the Masooma Shaikh, Lead, Adolescent Health and Wellbeing, who emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative.
“This workshop is a step toward breaking the silence and empowering deaf adolescents with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate their lives with dignity and independence,” she said.
Indian Sign Language interpretation by Josefina Fernandes ensured that every concept was accessible, fostering a truly inclusive environment.
Supported by Y-PEER Asia Pacific, Youth LEAD, and Disabilities 2030, and in collaboration with the Goa Association for the Deaf, this initiative is part of a larger effort to bridge critical gaps in SRH education. By addressing the unique needs of deaf adolescents, the program challenges the silence and neglect that this community often faces.
The series is designed to engage deaf adolescents across Goa, providing interactive, inclusive, and safe spaces for them to learn and grow. The workshops focus not only on providing information but also on fostering confidence and creating an environment where participants feel valued and understood.
Human Touch Foundation is a youth-centric organization dedicated to adolescent health and well-being. With a focus on sexual and reproductive health, substance abuse, and online safety, the foundation works to create a future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
