Elfed Willoughby has been successful in being selected by the British Deaf Association Youth to participate in the European Union of the Deaf Youth camp in Slovakia this summer.

Elfed is profoundly Deaf, and his first language is British sign language (BSL) . This can be pretty lonely place for him. Experience has shown him he doesn’t belong in his mainstream classes, but where does he belong?

In July this year, Deaf teenagers (aged 13 to 17) from across Europe will come together in Slovakia to explore their identity as deaf people, to build their confidence and self esteem, and to connect with other deaf teenagers from across Europe. They will learn international sign language, explore concepts like solidarity, have a cultural exchange and hopefully make some friends! Four young Deaf people from the Uk have been selected to go - and one of them is Elfed!

This is a fantastic opportunity for Elfed to come of age and to make sense of where he belongs in the world. On his return he plans to share his experience and what he’s learnt with other young Deaf people.

Elfed is now pulling out all the stops to raise the money he needs for this trip. He’s making cakes to sell at school and is organizing a raffle. Any donations you can make towards his fund to get there would be so appreciated!

Any surplus money will be donated to the BDA youth to support other Deaf children.