Deaf/Hearing Loss

Matt Maxey — DEAFinitely Dope

Matt Maxey is a trailblazing sign language interpreter, motivational speaker, panelist and workshop organizer who serves as a powerful advocate for diverse representation. Already known for his unique skill in visually interpreting popular hip-hop songs, Maxey skyrocketed to mainstream popularity when he was selected to tour with Grammy Award-winning artist Chance the Rapper. Bringing music … Read more

Millicent Simmonds—Screen, Stage and Sign

Millicent Simmonds was propelled into the global spotlight by her cinematic debut in “Wonderstruck,” which led to roles in the “A Quiet Place” franchise, a Broadway performance in “Gray House,” and her recent film, “Pretty Lethal.” Born and raised in Utah, Simmonds’ journey into the arts began in a small drama department at her school … Read more

Millicent Simmonds Digital Issue

View Millicent Simmonds PDF on-line click here Home abilityJOBS ABILITY Corps abilityE Videos Digital Issues

Estella Hassrick: Competitive Ski Jumping, Hearing Loss & Spatial Awareness

Estella Hassrick’s journey to the U.S. National Ski Jumping Team began at age four on the slopes of the Blackhawk Ski Club. After exploring various sports—cross-country, snowboarding, and alpine skiing—she eventually fell in love with the “feeling of flying” found on the jump hills. By her early teens, Hassrick’s commitment to the sport deepened, leading … Read more

Ashley Fiolek — Old and New Friends

It’s getting closer and closer to summer time and luckily that means more ride time! A few of my friends from Virginia came down to Florida for the Daytona supercross so that we could hang out and ride together. They wound up bringing their trailer and bikes and just “camped” out at my house. My … Read more

Entrepreneurs Bring Deaf-Centered Tourism to Safaris

In Uganda, where tourism is one of the country’s most celebrated industries, Deaf travelers have long been left out of the experience. National parks, safaris, and cultural excursions are rarely designed with Deaf accessibility in mind. But two innovators, Denis Ssebayiga and Simone Pabsch, are changing that. Together, they founded SS Sign Language Tourism, a … Read more

Tomer Aharoni — Co-Founder of Nagish

When Tomer Aharoni first arrived in New York from Israel, he didn’t expect to stay—let alone start a company that would reshape communication for people with hearing loss. But what began as a side project during his time at Columbia University has grown into Nagish is a tech company using artificial intelligence to provide real-time … Read more

Ashley Rides Again on New Yamaha

So the weather is getting a little chilly here in Florida, well it has it’s ups and downs one day its in the 60’s the next is in the upper 80’s it is hard to decide what to wear just always bring a light jacket with you here you never know! My mom and I … Read more

Nyle DiMarco on Deaf History, Inclusion and Justice

Model, dancer, actor and filmmaker, Nyle DiMarco has consistently used his celebrity to advocate for the Deaf community and broader disability rights. After gaining recognition on Switched at Birth, winning America’s Next Top Model in 2015 and Dancing with the Stars in 2016, DiMarco has focused on projects that amplify Deaf culture and stories. In … Read more

Ashley Fiolek — Winter 2025

Brrr what a cold winter so far. Even in Florida it has been raining and cold. My brother goes to college in Pensacola, and it actually snowed there today His classes are closed for 2 days. That’s crazy for Florida. We have had a lot of rain, too. I keep trying to ride, but between … Read more

Artist Ella Onyebe — Painting Her Sightsaver – United Nations Mural in Nigeria

Language comes in many forms. Many may think of it in terms of speech first, then maybe in physicality, but art is a language and an essential part of how we communicate. In September 2024 the UN and the organization, Sightsavers, revealed four murals in four different cities across the world. They appeared in New … Read more

Big Ocean — Deaf K-pop Boy Band

Apply by email: co*****@******ar.org The resounding success of K-pop in America is not surprising, given the catchy beats, fantastic stage presence and impressive choreography–an achievement not possible without the hard work and dedication involved with becoming a K-pop performer, known as an ‘idol’. Starting out as trainees, entertainers in the K-pop industry work tirelessly–sometimes … Read more

Can Ads Create Empathy for People with Disabilities?

As a kid, I thought disability was a dirty word. It was something I avoided describing myself even though it was undeniable I was born without ear canals. As I got older, though, I recognized the benefits of having a hearing disability and using assistive technologies. There is a power in being able to navigate … Read more

Ashley Fiolek — Hot Summer

Happy Summer! I hope you are able to find somewhere to cool down it’s been so hot! As usual, I have been pretty busy and still doing a lot of traveling. Right now I am in Utah visiting some friends, but soon Bambi and I will be making our way back to Michigan. I actually … Read more

Ashley and Bambi

As usual things have been crazy around here for the last month or so! I had planned on surprising my mom for a late birthday present by meeting my parents and brother in Nashville for the Supercross race. My dad and brother knew I was going to meet them, but my mom had no clue! … Read more

Ashley Fiolek

Hello ABILITY readers, unfortunately, it has been a rough month for me and my family. My grandma passed away on January 24th. Something like this is never easy but I know that my grandma is not suffering any more and Heaven just added another beautiful angel. Her memorial will be coming up at the beginning … Read more

Ashley Fiolek — Grand Rapids

My mom has been coming to Michigan to visit my grandma who is sick. So, it has been nice to see her more often since I live in Grand Rapids, Michigan now. I made her drive down to Florida with me for Thanksgiving and Christmas so I would not have to drive alone! We … Read more

Amber Galloway-Gallego — Music Sign Language Interpretation

Amber Galloway-Gallego has emerged as a trailblazer in the world of sign language interpretation, particularly within the realm of concerts and music festivals. Specializing in the dynamic genres of rap and hip-hop, she has become a household name and a passionate advocate for music accessibility at all levels of hearing ability. She has interpreted for … Read more

Ernesto Casillas — Celebrity Makeup Artist

Emmy award-winning Ernesto Casillas talks about his childhood and challenges growing up as a queer person with hearing loss in a Mexican immigrant family. He also discusses his journey from being a creative child to becoming a celebrity makeup artist, sharing experiences with clients such as Doja Cat and Gwen Stefani. Throughout the conversation with … Read more

Michelle Mary Schaefer

In her diverse roles as actress, writer, director, producer, ASL consultant, and intimacy coordinator, Michelle Mary Schaefer is committed to moving forward. After growing up Deaf in a hearing-centric world, navigating through challenging education and life experiences, Schaefer continues to be her authentic self. Using her many talents, Schaefer works tirelessly on her craft while … Read more