‘Syndrome of Change’ podcast gives voice to people with Down syndrome 

AMMAN — “Right to live”, a project first of its kind in the Middle East, aims to empower individuals with Down syndrome through podcasting. 

Reef, 24, with Down syndrome, attended school like any other child, but grappled with ongoing communication challenges. Nevertheless, Reef’s determination to embrace life led her to discover a passion for swimming, horse riding, and even boxing. 

Reef’s life took a significant turn when she secured employment at a clothing outlet.  “She didn’t just find a job; she found a community that respected, supported and cared for her,” Reef’s mother told The Jordan Times. 

Working at the outlet not only boosted her confidence but also gave her a profound sense of accomplishment, said Reef’s mother. 

Reef’s mother added that her daughter’s journey towards independence did not stop there. She underwent specialised training with the Syndrome of Change podcast initiative, part of the “Right to live” project founded in 2016, that equipped her with essential life skills.

“The pinnacle of her achievement arrived when she ventured into the world of podcasting. Creating her podcast became a dream come true for Reef, offering her a platform to openly share her thoughts, experiences, and even her communication challenges,” Reef’s mother added. 

In her podcast, Reef spoke candidly about her life, education and family. She didn’t shy away from discussing her communication difficulties, and her honesty resonated with listeners, many of whom faced similar hurdles.

The five-month-project, which was launched in May, is funded by the United States Middle East Partnership Initiative — US Department of State and implemented by World Learning.

The project revolves around several exceptional activities, such as training 11 young men and women with Down syndrome on podcasting basics in the region, in collaboration with Al Qessa Al Masmoua and Echo Podcasts, according to a statement from the founders. 

Through this modern medium, participants will gain the ability to communicate effectively and convey their messages and opinions. Additionally, the project includes the production of three podcast episodes discussing health, educational and social rights, based on the experiences and opinions of individuals with Down syndrome. They will actively participate in the production of episodes to inspire others.

“The ‘Right to live’ project serves as a pioneering model for addressing the issues of individuals with Down syndrome in the Kingdom. We take pride in supporting this important initiative, which reflects our commitment to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities and supporting them in society,” Diala Jarrar, the coordinator of the Middle East Partnership Program at the US embassy in Amman said. 

Wissam Khalifa, founder of the initiative, told The Jordan Times that this project empowers individuals with Down syndrome to create their podcasts, share their challenges and celebrate their successes. 

Reef’s journey is not hers alone; it’s “a testament to the power of this unique initiative”, which gives a voice to those who are often unheard, said Khalifa. 

“We believe in the importance of giving a real voice to individuals with Down syndrome, empowering them to become effective voices that convey their stories and rights,” Khalifa added.