Mentor voices: Chidi shares the joy of coding alongside Deaf creators

Codeant Technology Hub is a Nigerian organisation with the mission to foster educational empowerment through programming. Working across Imo State, they partner with Code Club to nurture a community of curious, lifelong creators.

Codeant took up a valuable opportunity to set up a club with a group of Deaf young people and learn alongside them. For many of the young people, the club was the first time in their lives that they had used a computer.

Codeant’s Co-Founder, Chidi Duru, shares insights from his time leading a Code Club for Deaf creators.

What were your first thoughts and feelings when you started planning your Code Club?

I was excited about the opportunity to unlock a new world for the young people — coding, creativity, and problem-solving. But I also felt the weight of the challenge: how do I teach coding to kids who are learning to use a computer for the first time, and who communicate differently?

I also knew there could be issues with the available infrastructure: old or slow computers, power outages, and limited access to the internet or learning aids. I was determined, though, because I believe that inclusivity in tech starts with giving everyone — regardless of ability — a fair chance to learn and grow.

How did you make your Code Club accessible for Deaf creators?

I approached it with simplicity, clarity, and accessibility in mind. First, I broke down the Code Club Introduction to Scratch project path into visual step-by-step guides so the creators could follow along independently.

To support communication, I have an experienced sign language teacher working with me, and I’m learning it myself.

I also integrated live demonstrations and visual storytelling. For example, instead of saying “Make the cat move 10 steps”, we use real-life gestures and visual cues, like arrows and body movement, to help understanding. We use other non-verbal cues, like raising hands to ask for help, thumbs up for “I’m ready”, and applauding (by waving raised hands) to celebrate achievements.

These simple adaptations have made the learning environment more inclusive, interactive, and fun for everyone.

What’s it like to see the creators finish a project?

The joy is unmistakable, even without words. Their expressions say it all: wide smiles, excited gestures, clapping, and proudly showing their screens to their peers. 

Seeing them go from hesitant to confident, from passive observers to active creators, is incredibly fulfilling. You can feel their sense of ownership and pride — it’s not just about finishing a task, but about building something of their own for the first time. That confidence boost is priceless.

Do your creators solve problems in unique ways that could help others?

Absolutely. Because they process information visually and often non-verbally, they naturally approach problems in creative, out-of-the-box ways. I’ve seen them troubleshoot by mimicking sprite movements with their hands or by physically demonstrating what the code should do.

Their ability to focus on visual logic and spatial awareness is something all learners could benefit from. It’s a reminder that coding is not just about syntax — it’s about thinking, creativity, and expression.

Most importantly, they are learning that they can do hard things, and that mindset will
serve them for life.

How has this experience changed your ideas about teaching, accessibility, and tech for young people?

I have come to deeply appreciate the power of inclusive teaching, how adjusting methods to meet learners where they are can unlock so much potential.

Technology should be a leveller, not a divider. This experience has shown me that with patience, the right tools, and empathy, every child, regardless of ability, can become a tech creator. Accessibility is not an add-on — it’s a foundation for equitable learning.

What message would you share with others who are starting a Code Club for creators with diverse accessibility requirements?

Start small, but start. You don’t need to have all the answers, just the heart to try and learn alongside your students. Inclusion is not about perfection, it’s about presence and persistence.

These creators have so much to offer. With your support, they will show you what is possible when tech truly becomes for everyone.

Inspired by Chidi to start your own journey with Code Club? Join our warm and welcoming community of mentors today!