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Celebrating 20 Years of Access, Community, and Deaf Leadership
- melissa.gillham
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
In Episode 4 of the InSignLanguage Podcast, we’re honoured to feature Nikki Stratton, the inspirational co‑founder of Zebra Access, as the charity celebrates its remarkable 20‑year anniversary.
Hosted by Deeshi, this episode is a powerful exploration of perseverance, Deaf leadership, creativity, and the vision that helped shape one of the UK’s most influential Deaf‑led organisations.
How Zebra Access Began: A Story Shaped by Community
Nikki shares the roots of Zebra Access, beginning more than 20 years ago when she and co‑founder Marilyn Willrich were working in Deaf media. With little to no formal training available in BSL translation for television at the time - long before YouTube or online resources - the pair recognised a real need for change.
Their inspiration for the name “Zebra” came from:
The black-and-white stripes that symbolise transition and access
Wolverhampton’s motto: “Out of darkness cometh light”
The camera lens feature known as a “zebra”
And even Marilyn’s zebra‑striped glasses!
What started as a media business grew into something even more significant - a Deaf‑led organisation dedicated to improving access, raising awareness, and championing the Deaf community.
Building a Deaf‑Led Future
Nikki speaks passionately about the importance of Deaf‑led organisations, especially in today’s world where traditional Deaf clubs have closed and new community spaces are needed.
For her, Zebra Access is more than a charity - it’s a family.
Over two decades, the organisation has:
Created safe spaces for Deaf people
Built community clubs and events
Delivered workshops, training, and support
Promoted Deaf awareness across the UK
Connected Deaf people locally, nationally, and globally
Nikki says it simply:“Language barriers dissolve when we communicate.”
Introducing Deaffest: A Global Deaf Talent Platform
One of Zebra Access’s proudest achievements is Deaffest, the UK’s only Deaf‑led film and arts festival - now internationally recognised.
Deaffest provides a platform for:
🎬 Deaf filmmakers🎨 Deaf creatives🌍 Global Deaf talent👥 Public audiences wanting to learn and engage.
Without it, Nikki says, many Deaf creatives wouldn’t have a place to showcase their work or be recognised for their achievements.
Advice for Deaf Entrepreneurs: “Have a Dream Vision”
When asked what advice she would give to Deaf people starting a business or charity, Nikki’s answer is clear:
Have a dream vision
Expect barriers - and push through them
Stay patient
Believe in your purpose
And most importantly - “Don’t say ‘can’t.’ Achieve it!”
Her words capture the heart of this episode: empowerment, self‑belief, and the unshakeable strength of the Deaf community.
Watch the Full Episode
This conversation is powerful, uplifting, and filled with wisdom from one of the UK’s most respected Deaf leaders.
🎧 Watch Episode 4 now👉
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Want to Be a Guest?
We’re always looking for inspiring stories from the Deaf community and beyond.
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