Founded in 2007, eDEAF was created to address a simple but urgent truth: Deaf South Africans deserve accessible education, meaningful employment, and full participation in society.

From our beginnings as a small Deaf‑led training centre to becoming South Africa’s leading Deaf‑owned inclusion partner, our mission has remained constant — to uplift, empower, and transform.

Today, we operate nationally, employ a majority‑Deaf team, and deliver accredited programmes that open doors for thousands of Deaf learners every year.

We exist to improve the social and economic lives of Deaf people in South Africa. Our purpose is rooted in three commitments:

• Accessible education delivered in SASL

• Employment pathways that build independence

• Inclusive workplaces where Deaf employees thrive

We believe that when Deaf people succeed, families, communities, and businesses succeed too.

We operate fully equipped, SASL‑accessible campuses in:

• Johannesburg

• Centurion

• Durban

• Cape Town

Each centre is designed to support Deaf learners with visual learning tools, Deaf facilitators, and a community‑driven environment that builds confidence and belonging.

Our team is nearly 80% Deaf, ensuring authentic representation and leadership at every level.

Our Deaf‑led model is what sets us apart. Learners are taught in their natural language, South African Sign Language (SASL), by qualified Deaf facilitators who understand their lived experiences.

This approach ensures:

• Full comprehension

• Cultural alignment

• Stronger academic performance

• Higher confidence and engagement

It’s not just training — it’s empowerment.

Nazereen Captieux‑Bhana is the Deaf CEO of eDEAF and a nationally recognised advocate for Deaf empowerment.

Born Deaf, Nazereen has dedicated her life to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for the Deaf community. She is a qualified assessor, moderator, and mentor, and previously served as an anchor host on the SABC programme Signature.

Her leadership ensures that eDEAF remains grounded in Deaf culture, Deaf identity, and Deaf excellence.

Every year, we support thousands of Deaf learners and hundreds of employers through:

• Accredited training

• Workplace inclusion solutions

• Interpreter services

• Recruitment and placement

• Sensitisation and support

Our work creates long‑term economic and social impact — not just for individuals, but for South Africa as a whole.