Finalist

Meraki

Macheeto is a social media and learning platform that aims to resolve educational and communicative barriers of individuals with special educational needs in a fun, easy, and safe way. The platform is designed for 8 to 25 year olds SEN people, specifically targeted at those with hearing, intellectual, and physical disabilities, or ADHD.

Studies have shown that the number of students with SEN has surged by 179% in the past 10 years, yet the problem is still neglected by society. They usually lack skills required in adulthood as some of them lack access to resources and help. Hence, our platform assists SEN children to develop new skills independently, catch up at school, learn safely at home even during the pandemic and broaden their vision.

Similarly, SEN adults are discriminated against, especially in workplaces, despite less severe cases having the capability to manage simple jobs. Macheeto allows them to communicate with more people and encourages them to socialise and practise independence at a younger age, hence they can better maintain their social relationships and be equipped with communication skills.

Finally, parents and individuals in society might not know how to help SEN children. Our platform provides them with opportunities to volunteer and help, even in the pandemic. Through hosting a variety of workshops, volunteers and participants can learn more about the SEN community and tackle stigmas and misconceptions. Parents can also share their experiences through our social media platform, allowing them to learn new teaching or handling methods from other parents who are experiencing the same problems.

For more information, please contact dare.to.change@ydc.org.hk

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