Introduction
Imagine a gathering that brings together experts in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and assistive technology to develop solutions for minority groups facing daily challenges. This was the purpose of the EMPOWER Conference held at the National Institute of Speech and Hearing (NISH) in Trivandrum, Kerala, India from October 17–19, 2024.
The conference, which takes place annually, focused on creating sustainable solutions for individuals with disabilities, particularly those with speech and hearing impairments. Over three days, participants engaged in 30+ intense discussions and problem-solving sessions led by industry experts and disability advocates.
Key Sessions and Experts
The conference featured sessions such as:
- Exploring Next-Generation Mobility Solutions
- Breaking Communication Barriers Through Assistive Technology
- AI and Assistive Technology
- Employability and Accessibility Solutions
Prominent conveners included Mr. Nekram Upadhyay, Dr. Vaishali Pai (Founder-Director of Tamahar Trust), Ms. Sarala Ramkamal, Mr. John Gardener (Founder of View Plus), Mr. Reji, Mr. Mohsin Dosani, and Sabriye Tenberken (Co-founder of Kanthari).
Sessions were hosted in NISH classrooms and halls, while a temporary tent served as a networking hub for attendees. Additionally, exhibition tents were set up for organizations and companies showcasing assistive technology products. Notable among them was AVAZ, an organization specializing in speech disability applications (www.AVAZAPP.COM), based in Kerala, India.
Mandrill-Alert’s Participation
As an organization advocating for safety solutions for the Deaf in war zones, Mandrill-Alert participated on October 17, 2024. Upon receiving an invitation via Kanthari, I (Blaise) attended alongside Enock, Sijo, and David, who also had disability-related projects. Prior to the event, Sabriye Tenberken prepared us for our sessions through multiple strategy meetings.
Mandrill-Alert’s primary focus was to address the vulnerability of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Cameroon’s war zones. Our main concerns included:
- The inability to perceive gunfire, bomb blasts, and other war threats
- The reliance on others for emergency alerts
- The lack of accessible warning systems for the Deaf community
At the conference, I shared my personal experience as a Hard of Hearing individual living in a war zone, emphasizing the dangers Deaf individuals face daily.
The Problem and Reality Check
To effectively present our case, we outlined key realities in war zones:
- War is unpredictable; attacks can occur anywhere, anytime.
- Gun battles between separatists and the military happen without warning.
- Deaf individuals often depend on hearing people for safety cues.
- Many Deaf individuals cannot read or write.
- Most hearing people in these regions do not know sign language.
Proposed Solutions
Through collaborative brainstorming with assistive technology experts, we explored various solutions, including:
- Leveraging pager systems
- Installing light signals on hilltops and roundabouts
- Developing a safety wristband for real-time alerts
Ultimately, we agreed that the wristband was the most practical and effective solution.
Features of the Mandrill-Alert Safety Wristband
The wristband was designed based on the realities of the Deaf community in Cameroon, ensuring it would:
- Use radio signal waves instead of the internet, as connectivity is unreliable during crises.
- Incorporate speech recognition software to identify specific danger sounds.
- Alert users through vibration and color-coded signals:
- Red: Indicates immediate danger (e.g., gunfire or explosions)
- Sky Blue: Signals an ongoing ghost town period
- White: Represents peace and safety
- Be powered by a rechargeable battery with solar backup.
The color choices were inspired by the Mandrill monkey’s vibrant face, which is also reflected in Mandrill-Alert’s logo.
Next Steps
After finalizing the core principles of the device, we concluded that we needed a software and hardware engineer to develop a working prototype. We are currently raising funds to build this life-saving device, which could benefit not only the Deaf community in Cameroon but also other war-affected regions worldwide.
Conclusion
The EMPOWER Conference was a remarkable platform for collaboration and innovation, helping us take a significant step toward ensuring the safety of Deaf individuals in war zones.
As we work toward actualizing the Mandrill-Alert Safety Wristband, we invite partners, donors, and technology experts to join us in developing a sustainable solution that will stand the test of time, improve lives, and enhance safety for the Deaf community in conflict regions.
Get Involved
If you’d like to support our initiative, please reach out to us. Together, we can make the world safer for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in war zones.
