Meet The Team

Echo of Hands was founded to build a meaningful bridge between Deaf and hearing communities—one that transcends spoken language. I launched this organization out of a deep commitment to inclusivity and human connection. I believe that when young people learn new ways to communicate and develop cultural sensitivity, they begin to reshape the world with greater empathy. Whether you’re fluent or, like me, still learning and finding your rhythm, you are warmly welcome here. Even the smallest gesture can spark meaningful change—and I invite you to join us on this journey of understanding, expression, and shared humanity

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.

​I’m honored to serve as the student leader of the New York Chapter. As a high school student, I’ve come to realize that real leadership isn’t about speaking the loudest—it’s about listening, connecting, and building something meaningful with others.

Echo of Hands gave me the opportunity to do exactly that. It’s more than a volunteer group; it’s a space where youth from different cultures, languages, and abilities come together to build a world that’s more inclusive and more human.

Whether you’ve joined to learn, to lead, or simply to meet others who care—you’re in the right place. We’re excited to grow with you, side by side, hand in hand.

Let’s make every voice, gesture, and effort count.

As a student deeply committed to empathy-driven leadership, I’m honored to represent Echo of Hands in California. I first became interested in inclusive communication when I volunteered with students of diverse abilities at a local school. What inspired me most was how much we all learned from one another—not just about language, but about patience, joy, and shared humanity.

Echo of Hands gives young people a space to connect across cultures and experiences. I'm excited to help build a community where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered to express themselves—whether through gestures, creativity, or collaboration.

My name is Jiyoo Choi, and I’m a junior at Tenafly High School in New Jersey. I discovered American Sign Language in sophomore year through a close friend who is hard of hearing. Our conversations opened my eyes to Deaf/HoH culture and to the accessibility resources around me, from ASL services in my community to closed-captioned events. I joined my school’s ASL club to keep learning, and now, as Vice President, I help plan programs that educate students about Deaf/HoH culture and encourage more inclusive communication.

Joining Echo of Hands would allow me to expand this work beyond my school. As a musician, I’m especially interested in blending ASL advocacy with artistic expression to connect with diverse audiences in meaningful, nonverbal ways.

This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio.