Statistics show that six of every 1,000 households have a Person with Disability (PWD), more specifically, someone who is deaf or hard of hearing. While there are institutions out there that do provide work for them, many are still left without wanting and marginalized.
All is not lost, however, as companies like Uber have put up programs like Beethoven. Named after world-famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven, who himself was deaf yet was still able to make some of the world’s most beautiful music, it allows deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals the chance to become an Uber Partner-Driver.
Thanks to technology, the special app incorporates a few unique features that make life easier for both the deaf driver and his or her riders. A flashing light, for instance, signals a new trip request. This makes it easier to detect such a notification, versus the standard audio signal. The Partner app likewise turns off voice calling and lets riders know that they’re about to deal with a deaf driver. It thus lets both parties communicate via text message only. This gives them ease in transacting.
The Beethoven program was first done is cities like Chicago and Los Angeles a few years ago. Since then, countless lives have been touched as PWDs have been given the chance to earn a decent living and find their place under the sun. With this program, many differently-abled Filipinos can now earn their keep and become productive members of society. Moreover, it should teach more people to respect these folks, who despite their disability, are people just like you and me.
