![](https://signs4life.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Kariba-meet-the-team-Afifah-copy.jpg)
Deaf Awareness Tutor
I am a deaf awareness trainer at Signs4Life. I am profoundly Deaf. I enjoy educating people about the Deaf community. I would like to see fewer barriers for Deaf people, and more people able to use BSL. My hobbies include trying new recipes and baking.
![](https://signs4life.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Kariba-meet-the-team-Catherine-copy.jpg)
Dyslexia Tutor
I trained as a dyslexia assessor and tutor because of my daughter Hannah; she was having difficulties at school and we found she was dyslexic at the age of 8. During my training I also found out that I was dyslexic as well. I find this is an advantage now because I can understand what my students are going through. My proudest moment was when Hannah graduated as a commissioned officer in the RAF.
![](https://signs4life.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Kariba-meet-the-team-Insharah-copy.jpg)
Partnerships Officer
I am studying English and Linguistics, in which the topic of speech impairment and sign language, is a big focus. Working for Signs4life has enlightened me to the fact that sign language should be a universally learned skill. I enjoy reading books (hence the degree), mainly of the fantasy and historical fiction genre, as well as travelling and visiting new places. I’m also interested in drama and theatre.
![](https://signs4life.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Kariba-meet-the-team-Maria-copy.jpg)
Autism Tutor
I currently work as an Active Lives Team Leader (Autism). I have worked in the wonderful world of Autism since 1997. I am originally from the beautiful Basque Country, Spain. When I am not learning from the people I support, I love reading all sorts of books and watching movies. I am a total film and book addict! When I get the chance, I like travelling, but I am more interested in visiting interesting places than sunbathing!
![](https://signs4life.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Kariba-meet-the-team-Rupal-copy.jpg)
BSL Tutor
I am Deaf and have been a BSL teacher for 11 years. I learnt sign language myself at 27 years old and realised I had a natural ability of incorporating BSL linguistics in my life through being a very visual person. I never expected to become a BSL teacher, but I really enjoy teaching because I get to continuously meet new people. My hobbies include travelling, theatre, and socialising with friends.
![](https://signs4life.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Kariba-meet-the-team-Theresa-copy.jpg)
Makaton Tutor
My background is working in the London borough of Tower Hamlets back in the late 80’s, within social care, and learning and development services. I worked with adults with learning and communication difficulties, front-line staff, and families and carers. At the time two individuals who were Makaton users were to access the service I was working at the time, and sadly none of the team had the skills to communicate using Makaton. I took the step and completed the initial training workshops, which I teach today. I then worked alongside the learning disabilities team, then speech and language therapists team, and we facilitated the first Makaton peer-led group within the region and one of the few within the country.