Qais’s Story
By Qais Khan
I was born profoundly deaf into a hearing family. My diagnosis came as a shock and turned my family’s world upside-down in many ways. Everything was new and unfamiliar, but my parents were determined to learn, adapt and make sure I had the support I needed from the very beginning. I first switched on my cochlear implant at the age of three and a half, which was essential to my communication and educational access as I grew up.
Being deaf has brought many challenges and obstacles into my life. During secondary school and college, I struggled with my mental health. I had low self-esteem and very little confidence. My communication skills were poor, and I had no real friends. What’s more, some teachers and professionals had low expectations of what I could achieve. It was generally felt that my prospects weren’t good and I wouldn’t do well in exams. Pursuing a university education and following my chosen career path didn’t seem possible.
Overcoming the Obstacles
Qais at the HLAA 2024 Convention exhibit hall in Phoenix.
With the unwavering support and encouragement of my parents, charities and hearing health professionals, I have managed to prove them all wrong. I passed my exams with excellent grades, progressed through college and successfully graduated with a degree. Getting my degree remains one of my proudest moments, not just academically, but personally. It represented years of perseverance, resilience and quiet determination to prove that deafness does not limit potential or ambition.
Stepping into the world of work brought its own challenges, especially during the pandemic, when everything felt uncertain and time was suspended. What I didn’t expect was that this period would lead me towards advocacy.
I got involved with the Cochlear Implant International Community of Action (CIICA), where I could combine my lived experience with creative and meaningful work, collaborating with hearing health experts and professionals to offer solutions for people with hearing loss. As a board member and coordinator for young adults with cochlear implants, I’ve been able to contribute to strategic initiatives and support online events to discuss the challenges they face between the ages of 18 and 35.
Finding and Sharing My Voice
Qais with a group of Cochlear Implant International Community of Action (CIICA) young adult ambassadors.
As a child, my spoken voice wasn’t easy to understand, but today, I’m speaking at global events sponsored by the United Nations (UN), the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.K. Parliament and other international entities. Along the way, I’ve been able to support conversations, share stories and help create spaces where young adults with cochlear implants feel seen, heard and understood.
My cochlear implant has played a huge role in my journey. It hasn’t removed every barrier, but it has given me access, independence and the confidence to stand tall in educational, professional and advocacy spaces. Most importantly, it has helped me find my voice.
Despite all the barriers I’ve faced, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. I’ve learned that progress isn’t about perfection, it’s about showing up, even on the hard days. Disabilities do not define who we are. With the right support, belief and determination, anyone can achieve their dreams. I hope my story reminds others of that, too.
