In Mar 2009, the Mission organised a coffee chat with a small group of freelance interpreters to talk about Forming a Network of Freelance Sign Language Interpreters to work with the Mission to provide interpreting services. Some interesting ideas emerged from the coffee chat. The Mission’s objectives include interpreter services, and skill enhancement workshops for freelancers who want to upgrade their skill level. Compensation was also discussed. There are new freelancers who are expressing an interest in being part of this service.

Pictured below are two freelance interpreters engaged through the Mission to support RLM (Ps Edmund) in providing interpreters at RLM’s 10th Anniversary Dinner event in Malacca.  The Mission is very glad to be part of this collaborative effort.

Pictured above are freelance interpreters - Edward Boey and Christina Lee

 Freelance interpreters - Christina Lee and Edward Boey - having a prep meeting with the 2 emcees for the event.

And below is a very nice picture of Edward and Christina with Agnes Peter, Co-Founder of RC Deaf Missions

The Mission is having a wonderful collaboration with Starbucks Cafe. Starbucks has supported the Mission immensely in joining us in our efforts to enhance the livelihood of many Deaf persons working with the Mission (with respect to the Deaf Art Promotions).  Starbucks continues to be a place close to the heart of the Mission and the hearts of many Deaf staff of ours. For the album, a picture taken of the Mission Deaf and staff of Starbucks Cafe at AMCORP Mall, Petaling Jaya.

From left : Staff from Starbucks (in their uniforms), Raymond Wong Chee Seng (Deaf Staff), Audrey Liew (hearing helper), Shamilah Razali (Deaf Staff), Zarif Zainol (hearing helper), and Mario Peter, Co-Founder of RC Deaf Missions.

Hearing signers working with Deaf Sales Staff are given some orientation on their roles and guidelines on working with Deaf Staff. The key element for hearing staff to remember is that they work for our Deaf Staff, and they must work in partnership with them. This can be a great opportunity and a learning experience for hearing signers. Working with the Deaf also means being able to adapt to different situations in those opportunities.

Introducing some of the hearing signing part time staff to our Deaf Staff. Pictured on right are Sean Mervin (left) and Zarif Zainol

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Left : Raymond Wong Chee Seng (Deaf Staff) having a little tease and light moment with his hearing helper Zarif Zainol.

  Carol Lau (Deaf Supervisor) giving some instructions to hearing helper Sean Mervin.

Shamilah Razali (Deaf Staff in blue tudung) with her helper Audrey Liew