KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society

Founded in 1936, the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society (KZNBDS) is one of South Africa’s longest-standing disability service organisations dedicated to empowering persons who are Blind, visually impaired, Deaf, or hard of hearing. For nearly nine decades, the Society has provided essential services, skills development, advocacy, and support to enable access, independence, and full participation in society.

What We Do

The Society delivers a wide range of development, empowerment, and social support programmes, including:

• Early Intervention & Education Support for learners who are Blind or Deaf
• Skills Development & Vocational Training, including sewing, cane weaving, and the pioneering Blind Culinary School
• Social Work & Counselling Services for individuals and families
• Orientation & Mobility Training creating independence
• Assistive Device Support, referrals, and accessibility guidance
• Community Outreach & Awareness, promoting disability inclusion and human rights
• Deaf Services, including SASL (South African Sign Language) support and accessibility

Our Mission

The mission of the Society is to ensure that each and every Blind, Partially-Sighted, Deaf and Deafblind person takes their rightful place in society as members who contribute and benefit from society side by side with their counterparts who do not have these disabilities.

Our Vision

To be the premier  provider of services and opportunities that ultimately improve the quality of life of Blind, Deaf, Deafblind persons

Our Story & Impact

Established at a time when disability services were virtually non-existent, KZNBDS began as a small support initiative and has grown into a provincial hub of empowerment, training, and advocacy. The Society has been instrumental in promoting disability awareness, enabling livelihoods, and supporting thousands of individuals and families across KwaZulu-Natal. Over the decades, KZNBDS has pioneered innovative programmes such as vocational training for blind artisans and South Africa’s first Blind Culinary School, which offers unique pathways into the hospitality sector. A Deaf Culinary School is planned to extend similar opportunities to Deaf youth and adults, supporting skills, employment, and entrepreneurship. Through partnerships with government, corporates, donor communities, and civil society, the Society continues to expand its reach and impact.

Looking Ahead

As the needs of persons with disabilities evolve, the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society remain committed to innovation, sustainability, and service excellence. From strengthening inclusive education to promoting employment pathways and expanding Deaf services, the Society continues to champion a future of real inclusion and empowerment.