By Audrey Lin | Project Manager
This quarter marks our Season of Learning and Exploration. For us, exploration is not about having all the answers — it is about the courage to ask questions, try new things, and step into the unknown. We invite you to keep reading and discover the meaningful breakthroughs achieved by the visually impaired individuals.
1. Listening to Culture - A Journey without Sight
We accompanied a group of visually impaired friends to two iconic cultural landmarks—the National Performing Arts Center and the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall—where they explored miniature models through touch and listened closely to guided narrations. Some participants expressed their amazement: “Wow! Now I finally know what a pipe organ looks like!” and “I had no idea there was so much history inside the CKS Memorial Hall.” One person shared, “Through this activity, I feel like I’ve gotten to know Taiwan all over again.”
Though they have lost their sight, the visually impaired can still connect with history using their other senses—as if, in their own way, they were witnessing the stories of the past.
2. Accessibility is not an exceptional concept, but a natural part of everyday life. – Web Accessibility Campus Talk
Whether at school, at work, or in daily life, do people with disabilities really only need sympathy or do they need society’s genuine understanding?
This season, we visited multiple campuses across Taiwan, from north to south, including National Taipei University of Education, Hwa Hsia University of Technology, National Formosa University, and Yilan County Shunan Junior High School.
In each session, we not only discussed the questions at the beginning but encouraged meaningful reflection and discussion among students.
One college student shared this powerful insight with us:
“Accessibility is about ensuring everyone has the right to navigate their environment safely and access resources equally. Maybe I can start by showing respect and offering assistance, such as leaving space in the elevator for wheelchair users, helping the visually impaired cross the street, or designing presentations and websites with clear structures and alternative text. Though these may seem like small actions, they can guide our society toward greater kindness and inclusion.”
3. Enhancing Financial Independence – Investment and Financial Management Course for the Visually Impaired
TDTB has long been dedicated to the holistic development of people with visual impairments. Over the past two years, we’ve organized two rounds of investment and financial management courses tailored specifically for the visually impaired—gaining valuable experience in teaching topics ranging from basic bookkeeping to introductory investment concepts.
We understand that while theoretical knowledge is important, the key lies in having the confidence to apply it in daily life. That’s why, with the support of United Way, we’ve expanded and enriched the course content.
The new curriculum breaks down essential financial literacy into ten accessible online modules, complemented by five in-person sessions that focus on real-life application, with immediate guidance and feedback from instructors. To further support participants, we’ve invited industry professionals to share practical insights and help them strengthen their financial management skills. Each participant also receives one-on-one financial consulting to address their individual needs.
Through this program, we aim to equip every participant with a solid foundation in financial literacy, empowering them to independently manage their finances and make informed decisions with confidence.
4. Understanding Through Experience – Blindness Workshop with BNP Paribas Cardif Assurance Vie
With the introduction and support of TechTHY from National Tsing Hua University, TDTB was invited by BNP Paribas Cardif Assurance Vie to organize a “Blindness Experiential Workshop.” The goal was to help corporate partners gain deeper insight into the needs and experiences of people with visual impairments. Finally, to apply this understanding when serving future clients. As such, the workshop focused on two key topics: “Digital Accessibility for the Visually Impaired” and “How to Interact with the Visually Impaired.”
Beyond traditional seminars, the workshop featured an interactive activity that encouraged participants to step into the shoes of the visually impaired and explore the world through their remaining senses. While not all participants completed every task successfully, the hands-on experience allowed them to gain a more meaningful understanding of the challenges faced by the visually impaired and dispel the common stereotypes.
We appreciatethe effortsof socially responsible companies, such as BNP Paribas Cardif Assurance Vie, place great importance on and dedicate resources to social inclusion and accessibility. Their commitment plays a crucial role in advancing awareness, empathy, and positive change for the visually impaired community.
5. Happiness After Suffering - Hong’s One-on-One Information Class
Hong is a junior high school student who initially had low vision. However, over the past few years, his eyesight gradually deteriorated until he became completely blind. To keep up with his studies, he came to TDTB to learn one-on-one information class.
During the first semester of my second year in junior high, I lost a lot of confidence and started giving up on many things. On top of that, my classmates bullied me, which made things even harder. Every day felt really lonely and hopeless. I spent a lot of time in the counseling room after class, and after school, I’d cry quietly by myself because I didn’t want to bother anyone with my feelings. I just told myself to get through one day at a time.
When the next semester came, I met the teachers at TDTB and began my learning journey there. Slowly, I started to feel more confident again. I worked on finishing my homework on time and even started thinking about how I could make my life better and more meaningful. Surprisingly, I realized that being visually impaired isn’t all bad — in some ways, it’s actually a strength.
When I got to Grade 9, I had a new teacher. At first, I was scared he might deny me like my previous teacher did. But he was different — he encouraged us to be united, patient, and responsible. For example, he let me join a fun competition with my classmates. We didn’t win first place, but the experience was unforgettable because no one blamed anyone else. Even better, I reached one of my biggest goals this year — learning Boshiamy before graduation!
I would like to sincerely thank Mr. Tseng for his guidance throughout my learning journey and for helping me retrieve these precious memories.
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