Aged 41, I finally realised my ambition and launched the SLFirst Magazine. The magazine is a culture and lifestyle magazine designed specifically for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people across the globe. Because of the long standing issues faced by deaf people in everyday life, there will be the odd 'call to action' article in the magazine, but primarily it is about celebrating deaf life, highlighting
what can be achieved as well as providing some advice and information along the way. As a result of great feedback and considerable support, on 31st October 2013 I launched a sister SLFirst publication on-line (www.slfirst.co.uk). The online magazine allowed me create a bi-lingual magazine, where articles are available in English and in BSL. We believe it was and remains the only bilingual (signed and written) magazine in the world. That magazine was read/watched by people in 160 around the world within 1 year of launch. Sadly, through my other business Deaf Friendly Limited growing, I did not have time to continue writing articles, SLFirst put on gardening leave. On April 1st 2023, Deaf Friendly Limited took over ownership of SLFirst and the online magazine is now called the Deaf Friendly Magazine. We hope to create new and updated content with a major focus on education, job opportunities and what it means to be deaf. If you have a deaf story to tell, please get in touch and if you are a budding deaf writer, I'd like to hear from you too. I hope you enjoy the magazine.
