Tina Lannin: Pioneering Inclusivity for the Deaf and Hearing Impaired

Tina Lannin, a Co Down expert lip-reader, has been on a remarkable journey since undergoing cochlear implant surgery in 2012. Her experiences have not only shaped her personal life but have also led her to found a groundbreaking live captioning business, '121 Captions,' which is revolutionizing accessibility for the deaf and hearing impaired community.

Empowering the Deaf and Hearing Impaired Through Innovative Solutions

Discovering a New Hearing World

When Tina Lannin first stepped into the "strange new hearing world" after her cochlear implant surgery, her hearing started dropping in "chunks." However, she embraced this challenge with enthusiasm, describing it as a "rollercoaster ride" filled with new discoveries. From the captivating sound of rain to the mesmerizing waves on the shore, Tina's journey of rediscovering the world of sound was both exhilarating and overwhelming.

Founding '121 Captions': A Groundbreaking Live Captioning Business

Tina's personal experiences with hearing loss and her expertise in lip-reading led her to found '121 Captions' in 2008, a pioneering live captioning business that uses lip-reading to provide instantaneous captions at major events for the deaf and hearing impaired. Today, the company employs a team of around 300 captioners worldwide, offering stenography services in 23 languages and collaborating with renowned organizations such as Microsoft, Oxford University, Disney, and the National Crime Agency.

Advocating for Inclusivity and Accessibility

Tina's skills in lip-reading have been sought after by various professionals, including the police, judiciary, and medical personnel. She has also been called upon to decipher the secret whisperings of the rich and famous. Tina hopes that the increased awareness of live speech-to-text services will encourage more people to prioritize inclusivity in all areas of life, recognizing that communication is a shared responsibility.

Overcoming Challenges in Education and Employment

Tina's journey has not been without its challenges. During her school and university years, she faced a lack of support and understanding from educational institutions, making it difficult to access the necessary accommodations. However, her determination and resilience led her to explore alternative career paths, eventually finding success in the field of finance and deaf awareness training before founding '121 Captions.'

Embracing Diverse Communication Modalities

While Tina is a strong advocate for lip-reading, she also recognizes the value of sign language and other communication methods. She has learned sign language to a basic conversational level, acknowledging that different individuals within the deaf community may have varying preferences and needs. Tina's focus remains on honing her lip-reading skills, which she has found to be immediately beneficial in both her personal and professional life.

Navigating the Debate Around Cochlear Implants

Tina's personal experience with cochlear implants has given her a unique perspective on the ongoing debate within the deaf community. While she acknowledges that the technology can be life-changing for some, she also understands the preference of others to rely on sign language and their cultural identity. Tina emphasizes the importance of respecting individual decisions and the challenges that come with adapting to a "strange new hearing world."

Pursuing Passions Beyond the Boardroom

Tina's remarkable achievements extend beyond her professional endeavors. As a member of the Porsche Club, she has completed her advanced driver's certificate and is a regular at the Kirkistown race track near Newtownards. Interestingly, Tina must remove her cochlear implants to accommodate the racing helmet, driving in complete silence and relying solely on her visual senses to navigate the track.Tina Lannin's story is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to inclusivity. Her journey has not only transformed her own life but has also paved the way for greater accessibility and understanding for the deaf and hearing impaired community. Through her groundbreaking work at '121 Captions' and her unwavering advocacy, Tina continues to inspire and empower those who face similar challenges, proving that with determination and a pioneering spirit, anything is possible.