Tasnim manages SEMDC operations and is more than happy to and pitch in to support everyone.  She is an excellent communicator and as she is an experienced Deaf Relay Interpreter, SEMDC can offer both practical and emotional support to members who may have no BSL experience. As well as being a people person she has a special place in her heart for her cat Pearl! 

Di is fluent in Chinese and English and is progressing well with her BSL proficiency, now at BSL Level III.  She has a quirky sense of humour and always provides a warm welcome.  Di loves to powerwalk and this helps her to get places quickly as well as brushing off the cobwebs.  Di excels at juggling many tasks at one time.  She also specialises in making Chinese cakes, yum!

Kay loves to be by the sea and her favourite thing to do is to wrap up and go for a brisk walk.  She enjoys writing poetry in a “Pam Ayres” type of style and is writing her autobiography.  A supporter of the community for over 13 years, Kay is very  proud to be part of a team and organisation that continues to flourish and supports the Deaf ethnic minority community so well.

Nafiesa is the ‘go to girl’ at SEMDC.  She knows what’s going on in the Deaf community and is a fashionista at large.  A long time SEMDC member, she knows the strengths within the community so can encourage others and is supporting the Deaf ‘CAN’ programme. Nafy loves photography and arts and culture and is well at home taking care of others.

Fowzia is a well known member of the community and recently has joined the team, providing hospitality and maintaining the office.  Extremely organised, she keeps everything in order and staff on their toes, and is always finding new ways to improve productivity.  We would be lost without her.

Zeenat is a key figure in the Deaf CAN project, while also volunteering at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, supporting members with access to information regarding benefits, housing, basic entitlements.  Zeenat is tenacious and goes the extra mile to get an answer to that question, along with a flair for creativity.

Sayed has gone from being a member, to volunteering and as a recipient of the paid work placement scheme, continues to work at SEMDC on supporting the team across all the projects.  His skills lie in media design and being a role model, welcoming newcomers to the community and making them feel at ease.  

Aleem leads on SEMDC’s physical wellbeing activities.  Co-ordinating men’s health workshops, women’s groups and organising mixed group activities, the community have never been so active.  An experienced Deaf Relay Interpreter, he provides full access to communication for members with no British Sign Language skills, while supporting schools, medical and legal services.