Bas Bonnier: The deaf pete news in sign language

His mission

‍BasBonnier is the founder of De Dove Pieten foundation. With this foundation he wants to give deaf and hard of hearing children - with and without additional disabilities - an unforgettable Sinterklaas experience in their own language: sign language. Every year Sinterklaas comes to the Netherlands, but for many deaf children the story remains inaccessible. That's why De Dove Pieten is making a Sinterklaas newsreel in which deaf and sign-language impaired children bring the story to life. The goal: to ensure that every child, regardless of hearing, can enjoy this tradition.

Why Bas went into business‍

The motivation to undertake comes from his youth. On television at the time, there were only subtitles, with no sign language interpreter. But young deaf children often cannot read well yet and therefore understand less of what is said. That is why Bas decided to make a YouTube series, so that these children can follow Sinterklaas in their own language. The inspiration for this initiative comes from his family. His grandparents lovingly transmitted the Sinterklaas tradition, and Bas wants to ensure that deaf children can also experience that feeling. Moreover, he wants to show that deaf people can do a lot, despite the fact that some people think otherwise.

Entrepreneurial challenges‍

Entrepreneurship brings challenges. A major stumbling block is applying for funds. Many funds require applications to be written in flawless Dutch, which is not easy for many deaf people - including Bas. Fortunately, he receives support in this regard from a hearing sign language user who helps with language and communication.

From living room to a professional space

‍Foryears Bas made recordings at home, each time converting his living room into a studio. Now that he has a son, he wants to better separate work and private life. For a long time he was looking for a suitable space, but without a budget that was a challenge. Through Delft Boost Lab he came into contact with New Future Lab, where he got storage space and can use the facilities for filming. He is extremely happy with that!

Pride moments‍

What he is most proud of? The happy faces of children and parents when the end result is there. The annual Sinterklaas party for everyone is a great success and gives him the motivation to keep going. After the busy December month, Bas takes a break, but from February he starts writing scripts and raising funds again. This remains a challenge, but he is not giving up.

A message to other entrepreneurs

‍WhatBas wants to pass along to other entrepreneurs? Sign language is beautiful and valuable to learn. He would love to give a sign language workshop, but has yet to find time to make that happen. But as with everything: small steps get you closer and closer to your goal.

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Bas Bonnier is a futurist within New Future Lab and is affiliated with the Delft Boost Lab program.