Along with the traditions of nations around the globe, Sharjah Heritage Days (SHD),taking place in the historic Heart of Sharjah district, is also paving the way for a more aware, diverse and inclusive future for the UAE and the world by showcasing talents like AbdalsalamZouroub, who did not let his physical challenges prevent him from achieving personal and professional success.

The young Palestinian, born and raised in the UAE,is hearing-impaired and has brought his clothing line, ESLWith Saloom (@eslwithsaloom) to SHD. At his cool little kiosk are a variety of t-shirts and hoodies with messaging in both English and Arabic that feature not just words, but also images of hands translating those words using sign language symbols.

He says, through writing, “The world is very different when you are a specially challenged person, and I wanted to show how we communicate through thoughts and words, so that regular people can appreciate the meaning behind sign language gestures.” He started his label two years ago, when he was unemployed and adds that “my goal is to inspire people to learn how to communicate with deaf society.”

The University of Sharjah graduate sells his merchandise through Instagram, and the colourful range features sports names, cool symbols, caricatures, figures and even images of games like tic-tac-toe, all translated in sign language.

Abdalsalam also takes custom orders, and clients can get whatever they want printed and even place orders for couples’ t-shirts or sets for the entire family.

Passionate about community service, Zaroubhelps communicate public service messages in sign language, working for bodies and organisations like the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, Emirates Red Crescent, Friends of Cancer Patients, Government of Sharjah, and others. He also teaches words and simple gestures using sign language on Instagram, reaching a wider audience.

Abdalsalam is a man on a mission to spread awareness about the challenges of hearing-impaired people and improve their position in society – all it takes is a sign.