Watch as Emilo shares his incredible journey as World Federation of the Deaf Youth Section President, dives into his experiences learning New Zealand Sign Language, and gives us the scoop on whether Aotearoa has the edge over Australia! 
Plus, find out what advice he has for the Deaf community and how he rates the friendliness of Kiwis! 
TRANSCRIPT:
Jon: Kia ora, everyone, I’m Jon. Welcome to Kōrero With Jon! I’m thrilled to have our special guest, who has flown all the way here—amazing! He has recently been travelling in Australia for three months, and he’s originally from Denmark. We’re excited to have him here in New Zealand. Welcome!
Emilo: My name is Emilo, and this is my sign name. I’m the President of the World Federation of the Deaf Youth Section (WFDYS). I started in this role last July, so it’s been about ten months now.
Jon: So you’ve been WFDYS President—how are you finding it? Are you enjoying it?
Emilo: Absolutely, though it’s also challenging. I’ve had to navigate cultural differences around the world. For example, working with my Board means adapting to different perspectives. It’s challenging, but also really fun.
Jon: Wow, that sounds like a beautiful experience and journey. What made you want to become President?
Emilo: It’s a long story! I first got involved through an international Deaf school programme, where Deaf students from around the world studied together for nine months. We learned about leadership, organisations, media, Deaf studies, sign language, and Deaf identity. That experience inspired me to give back to the Deaf community, because it has given me so much.
I later joined my national Deaf youth board in Denmark and served for four years, eventually becoming President. I learned a lot about teamwork and how diverse the Deaf community is—some are hard of hearing, some have cochlear implants, some don’t, and everyone has different upbringings.
One issue I kept noticing was access—not everyone has equal access. I experienced that myself growing up, without interpreters or sign language at school. That motivated me to advocate for change.
Jon: That’s powerful. How did you get involved with WFDYS?
Emilo: I attended a WFDYS camp in Paris in 2019. It was amazing—around 100 people came together for a week. That’s where I met Shirley Liu from Australia, who was the WFDYS President at the time. She became a role model for me and encouraged me to get involved.
Later, I attended another camp in Jeju, Korea, where I saw so many passionate young people wanting to make a difference. Shirley encouraged me again to run for President. I was hesitant at first, but eventually I said yes. With her support and my family’s encouragement, I took on the role.
Jon: That’s such an inspiring journey. Do you ever feel nervous in this role?
Emilo: Yes, definitely. I’m still new. For example, being here in New Zealand, I felt uncertain—especially with communication, because NZSL is different from International Sign and Danish Sign Language. But people have been welcoming, and I’ve had great experiences visiting places like The Hearing House and the Deaf Club in Auckland.
Jon: You’ve been doing great—I’ve seen your presentations and your signing is clear and engaging.
Emilo: Thank you! WFDYS has given me so many opportunities, like coming here, meeting people, and learning NZSL. I’m still learning, but I hope to improve over my time here.
Jon: Have you faced barriers or challenges in your life?
Emilo: Yes. I grew up with a cochlear implant and in a hearing family, so communication was sometimes difficult. Later, I had to have the implant removed due to pain, which was a big challenge. In Denmark, many Deaf people my age have implants, so I felt isolated for a time.
But sign language changed everything. It gave me access to communication, identity, and community. Without it, I would have struggled a lot more. Over time, I realised that cochlear implants are not everything—sign language is essential.
Jon: That’s really powerful. Do you prefer sign language or cochlear implants?
Emilo: The cochlear implant gave me opportunities, but sign language gives me full access. It allows me to express myself—my thoughts, feelings, and opinions. If I had to choose, I would choose sign language.
Jon: Thank you for sharing that. Do you have a favourite NZSL sign?
Emilo: I’ve only been here a few days, but I like the sign for commitment. I also love Māori concepts like aroha and kaupapa. Te reo Māori is such a beautiful language, and I’d love to learn it if I stayed here longer.
Jon: If you come back, you should also learn about the Treaty of Waitangi—it’s an important part of New Zealand’s history and identity.
Emilo: I’d love that. I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far—the people are welcoming and kind.
Jon: Final question—do you have any advice for Deaf youth?
Emilo: Yes—grab every opportunity. That’s how you grow. Each opportunity leads to another. My journey—from an international programme to youth leadership to becoming WFDYS President—came from saying yes to opportunities.
Being Deaf is not a barrier. You can achieve anything. I also encourage youth to join WFDYS camps—they’re a great way to meet people and learn about different cultures.
Jon: Thank you so much for your advice and your story. It’s been inspiring to hear about your journey, your experiences, and your commitment. I hope everyone watching can learn from you and follow your journey.
That’s all for today—thank you for watching Kōrero With Jon!