OK users explore gratitude and expressions in sign language through a new video series
Odnoklassniki is expanding how people experience language by offering a set of sign language translations for common expressions of gratitude, compliments, and warmth. In collaboration with Surdoclass, a platform dedicated to education for people who are deaf and hard of hearing, the social network launched a series of gift videos that include sign language interpretation. The project marks International Sign Languages Day, observed on September 23, and aims to elevate awareness of the rights and needs of the hearing-impaired community while introducing sign language to a broad audience.
The video wishes, freely accessible in the gifts section across all OK platforms, present a selection of phrases such as “Love is above all,” “I give tenderness and warmth,” “Do good deeds,” “May this day bring good luck,” and “You are the best.” Repeats like “Smile more often” appear to reinforce the message of positivity. The recordings showcase Anna Pogorelova, a seasoned sign language interpreter with more than six years of experience in sign communication and over three years in professional translation work.
According to Surdoclass and the wider community, roughly 13 million deaf and hard of hearing people live in Russia. For many of them, sign language is their native tongue. Data suggest a single skilled interpreter may serve up to about 100 thousand people in some regions, underscoring the demand for accessible language resources. The project team emphasizes creating a broad library of educational materials tailored to the needs of the hearing-impaired and promoting sign language studies among the general public. The aim is to use International Sign Languages Day as a catalyst to highlight ongoing efforts in accessibility and education, while also encouraging ongoing interest in sign language as a valuable communication channel.
Gifts have become a core interaction feature on Odnoklassniki, reflecting how users engage with one another on the platform. In the second quarter of 2023, users sent a staggering volume of 11.2 billion virtual gifts to friends and followers. Beyond entertainment and social connection, the team consistently focuses on accessibility and inclusive design. Notably, in 2022, the OK app became the first social networking application in Russia to be accessible to visually impaired users, marking a milestone in universal design and inclusive technology.