Attending the Chaos Communication Congress, an event highly recommended by many of my friends, has been a dream of mine for a long time. This event is not just any gathering; it’s an annual symposium and hacker gathering organized by the Chaos Computer Club (CCC). It’s known for bringing together a diverse group of people interested in technology, hacking, and digital rights.
The Congress was put on hold for three years due to the Corona pandemic. During the last couple of months, I kept up with updates from the CCC event blog. That’s where I saw the call for participation for the 37C3 – the 37th iteration of the Congress.
The lectures at 37C3 were organized into various tracks, covering various topics like Art & Beauty, Ethics, Politics & Society, Science, Security, Sustainability & Climate Justice. Each track was curated by a team of experts in the respective field, ensuring a high standard of discussion and knowledge sharing.
Looking through these tracks, I was inspired to contribute. I decided to submit a proposal for a presentation titled “Handsfree Assistive Technology.” It was a topic close to my heart, and I believed it would resonate with the audience at the Congress.
To my delight, my submission was accepted, and I was invited to present in front of a knowledgeable audience. This was not just an opportunity to share my work but also to have it live-streamed and recorded, reaching a wider audience beyond the physical confines of the Congress.
In my presentation, I share my personal journey following a spinal cord injury that resulted in quadriplegia. This life-changing event had a profound impact on me, stripping me of my mobility and hand function. But rather than seeing this as the end, I viewed it as a new beginning – a chance to explore and advocate for assistive technologies.
These technologies have become indispensable in my daily life. They help me perform tasks many take for granted, like using a computer or navigating my home.
My home has also been adapted with smart technologies. These include automated doors, voice-activated appliances, and environmental control units. Such integrations transform my living space into an accessible and manageable environment, giving me a level of autonomy that is crucial for my well-being and independence.
During the presentation, I delve into the specifics of these technologies. I discuss their evolution from basic adaptations to sophisticated systems that utilize the latest technology. This progression is not just a reflection of technological advancements but also a growing understanding and awareness of the diverse needs of people with disabilities.
In conclusion, my presentation is an invitation to rethink the role of technology in our lives. It’s a call to action for innovators, policymakers, and society to harness the power of assistive technologies. This is not just about improving the lives of the disabled; it’s about enriching the human experience for all.
You can download my full presentation for an in-depth look at my experiences, insights, and the specifics of the technologies I use. Additionally, the live-streamed recording of my presentation is available, providing a firsthand experience of the talk and the audience’s engagement with the topic.
Quad.Works 