Yang Shu never imagined her passion for storytelling would become her livelihood. Visually impaired since birth, she found newfound independence through the discovery of screen reader software. “I never thought I could pursue a career in audiobook narration until I discovered screen reader software,” she shared.
Her journey began during a training session organized by the Disabled Persons’ Federation. Learning about screen readers felt like stumbling upon a treasure. Now a full-time audiobook narrator, Yang Shu has recorded approximately 50 novels, lending her voice to both main narratives and character roles.
“Many visually impaired people share a similar experience with me,” she said. “From a young age, we tend to be more sensitive to sounds and naturally develop a strong interest in them.”
Yang Shu’s unique approach to narration involves listening to the screen reader with one ear and reinterpreting the content in her own words. “While sighted people read visually, I rely on auditory reading,” she explained. “I bring the content to life with my emotions.”
“I can support myself through my passion. To put it simply, I’ve turned my ‘dream aspiration’ into my ‘daily bread.'” Her story reflects the broader efforts underway in China to empower people with disabilities.
To help more individuals like Yang Shu achieve quality employment, the Chinese government has introduced various measures aimed at enhancing job skills and protecting the right to work. In 2022, the General Office of the State Council released a three-year plan to promote the employment of persons with disabilities.
The plan targets unemployed persons with disabilities in urban and rural areas who are willing and able to work, emphasizing the government’s role in promoting employment. It aims to create one million new jobs for persons with disabilities nationwide between 2022 and 2024.
Additionally, the plan seeks to continuously improve employment and entrepreneurship capabilities, safeguard employment rights, and foster a supportive social environment. Through understanding, care, and backing, the initiative encourages the employment and entrepreneurial endeavors of persons with disabilities.
Yang Shu’s success story is a testament to the impact of these initiatives. By turning her “dream aspiration” into her “daily bread,” she embodies the empowerment that comes from accessible technology and supportive policies.
Reference(s):
Empowering lives: China's support for people with disabilities
cgtn.com
