3D FRIENDS
Hey! ✨ Zīmju Draugi
Let's Promote the Accessibility of Sign Language! Not only on sign language websites and in sign language courses, but also in the daily lives of young people — ON SOCIAL MEDIA.

We will learn not only simple everyday words, phrases, and sentences, but also discover something new that will inspire you and encourage you to learn this unique language.
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NOVEMBER
"Zīmju draugi" closure event
On November 23, 2024, the closing event of the "Zīmju draugi" project took place, celebrating the work accomplished and the project's successes. This special evening brought together project participants, volunteers, and supporters, creating an opportunity to share experiences and celebrate the achievements.
The closing event celebrated the achievements and successes of the "Sign Friends" project. This special evening brought together project participants, volunteers, and supporters.
The evening began with a performance by the Rītausma Youth Theater titled "What Happens in the Pub, Stays in the Pub" followed by engaging discussions.
The program also included a fun Kahoot game and a sign language activity called "Rumors," similar to the game "Silent phone" for hearing players. These activities fostered mutual understanding and highlighted how engaging and creative learning sign language can be.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us!
SIGN LANGUAGE
Video dictionary
As part of the project, a sign language video dictionary was created, covering 18 different topics. The filming involved 12 volunteer models. The video dictionary is organized in an easy-to-use YouTube playlist, allowing viewers to quickly access the relevant topics and words. Each video series is carefully prepared to show accurate sign language gestures from various angles.
OCTOBER
Sign Language Video Dictionary Filming: Part 2
In October, we continued working on the sign language video dictionary to make Latvian sign language more accessible. Volunteers enthusiastically supported the project's goal, taking on various roles as video participants and assistants, helping with preparation and execution.
This phase was an important step in creating the video dictionary, ensuring each word was represented both visually and emotionally with precision, making it easy to understand and learn.
APRIL - JUNE - SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER
Sign Language Courses
As part of the project, three sign language courses were held in the spring, summer, and autumn. The courses were led by Paulis Kalniņš, who shared his knowledge with the participants. During the sessions, attendees learned useful words and phrases for everyday communication and gained an understanding of the significance of sign language and its application in various situations, all in a friendly and creative atmosphere.
august
Camp at Veczemju Cliffs

August 16, 2024 - August 19, 2024

The four-day camp at the picturesque Veczemju Cliffs brought together hearing and Deaf participants to promote mutual understanding, a sense of community, and inspiration. It was a unique opportunity to learn, form friendships, and co-create new ideas. Additionally, participants had the chance to learn more about youth sector projects and create a draft of their own project, reflecting their ideas and aspirations.

Camp Participants' Observation

The participants of the camp observed the importance of cross-cultural communication and the value of diversity. They highlighted how learning Latvian sign language and participating in joint activities fostered a sense of unity and inclusion. Many participants, both hearing and Deaf, appreciated the unique opportunity to engage in an environment that encouraged mutual understanding and collaboration. The experience also helped participants build friendships.

The interviews are taken from the September issue of the newspaper Kopsolī available at https://www.lns.lv/lat/jaunumi/avize__kopsoli_/2024/.

  • Madara Liepiņa
    Camp Participant
    The "3D Friends" camp was an amazing experience that I enjoyed every moment of. I met both familiar and new faces, and it was very interesting to get to know new people, share my knowledge, especially about using sign language for communication. I really enjoyed the task where we had to develop project ideas. We divided into groups, and each group came up with interesting ideas that could be implemented in real life. In my group, we focused more on art and organizing exhibitions, and we hope our idea will be realized. It was very valuable to hear other people's opinions, which helped to enrich our idea. Everyone enjoyed this collaboration. At the camp, I learned how to communicate more effectively using sign language and gained new approaches for creative work in groups. I definitely want to use these skills going forward – in everyday life and in other projects. The most unforgettable moments of the camp were the times spent by the campfire with musical instruments. We – Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing individuals – all followed along as each person played and created a truly positively charged atmosphere. We watched the starry skies, and then suddenly we were surprised by the northern lights – it was an unforgettable experience. I would definitely participate in the camp again in future years. Taking part in this camp was not only a great experience but also a truly uplifting and memorable one that I definitely want to repeat!
  • Madara Lisovska
    Camp Participant
    The most exciting activity was creating a story based on picture cards. This activity encouraged us to think creatively about the plot and express it using signs without speaking. In our group, there was a Deaf guy who showed how the movements in the picture could be expressed in sign language, so we learned new signs. A great practice from the organizers was the requirement to speak in the large circle using sign (or body) language, which brought together the hearing and Deaf worlds. All participants were very grateful and satisfied. It created the confidence that this camp was truly successful! I would participate again!
  • Madara Indriksone
    Camp Participant
    This is not the first "3D Friends" camp I have participated in. When I found out that this year's camp theme was sign language, I decided I definitely had to join. The most memorable event was developing projects and sharing ideas. I really enjoyed the openness of the participants and the opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences in a pleasant, relaxed, and peaceful atmosphere. Conversations, nature, fresh air, and the sea... Thank you to the camp for the valuable experience!
may
Yacht Trip:
In May, an evening yacht trip was organized where participants had the chance to enjoy drawing on the yacht while also practicing sign language. It was a unique opportunity to combine creativity with learning in a relaxed and inspiring setting.
marts
Video Dictionary Filming: Part 1
In March, the first meeting took place for the filming of the sign language video dictionary. It was the beginning of an exciting project where volunteers gathered to contribute to the creation of a visual and educational resource. This part of the filming focused on capturing the first set of signs, which were carefully recorded to ensure clarity and accuracy for future learners of Latvian sign language.
FEBRUary
Logo Creation:
In February, the logo for the project was created. The logo was designed by Pēteris Čivlis and represents the core values and vision of the initiative. It serves as a visual identity for the project, capturing the essence of the mission to promote Latvian Sign Language and make it more accessible to the public.
Project AIM:
  • LSL more achievable

    Will make LSL more achievable, not only from special websites or special courses but also daily in your social media, in a place where youth are spending more time nowadays..

  • Inclusive community

    Continue creating an inclusive community, now not only for theatre but for any other youngsters who want to communicate and know a bit more about each other. In the future, we will even create some projects together and spread knowledge of Erasmus and ESC programs in the deaf community.

  • Opportunities

    Create more opportunities for non-hearing community, explanation of Erasmus+ and ESC concept and ability to participate in non-formal activities locally without official representatives (not organised by public institutions, something fresh and aimed at young people).

  • Help to show new words and phases

    Help to show new “youth” words and phrases which will be useful even for deaf community from other Latvian cities to share from deaf to deaf.

  • Inspire

    Inspire others to create action and interact with the community of deaf people, that it is not difficult and break stereotypes and stigmas.

  • Environment

    The environment where people can find new friends and connections feels inclusive.Helps to make ambassadors of LSL, more people will know some basis of LSL and use it in any appropriate situation.

KOMANDA
Meet the Team!
The team consists of 5 members, each with their own responsibilities to ensure smooth progress. Most of us have previous experience in Erasmus+ projects, which will help us work effectively on this project. Additionally, our wonderful volunteers are with us!
  • VERONIKA
    Manager

    .Responsible for controlling all documents about the project. Reminding about deadlines of tasks setting up tasks list and controlling time management

  • KARĪNA
    Communicaton

    Responsible for communication, in the group, collecting feedback and making notes about meetings, and external communication with LSL teachers, with our event holders , and with sponsors.

  • LIKA
    Social Media

    Manager of the social media team. Responsible for posting videos in Instagram and TikTok and keeping a connection with the audience on social mediaCollecting views and reactions in social media.

  • ARTIS
    Video, community integration and practicalities

    Responsible for video recording quality and content. Help with video editing and giving a final view before publishing. Help with community integration from the deaf community side and help with practicalities.

  • ALMA
    Visual materials

    Responsible for visual materials including social media materials, website visualisations and photos for exhibition preparation. Publishing long versions of videos to the website and controlling the website.

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Feel free to write and call us. We really love to communicate with our friends✨
3D FRIENDS

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