Cultural participation begins with information – this is demonstrated by the Brazilian NGO School of Gentleman with the app VEM CA, another Zero Project awardee. This free and accessible application informs people with disabilities about truly accessible events—whether theater, exhibition, or online event.
Since its launch in 2018, VEM CA has been helping people across Brazil find suitable cultural opportunities. Users can search 24 event categories (e.g. cinema, museum, concert) and 12 accessibility features Filter options—including sign language, easy-to-use language, tactile surfaces, accessible restrooms, and subtitles. The app itself is designed to be accessible: It offers, among other things, audio description, subtitles, large font, and high-contrast display.
What makes VEM CA special:
- The app was developed in close collaboration with people with disabilities, who are still part of the creative team today.
- Since the pandemic, it has also pointed to Online events there.
- In 2021, it was expanded by Database for accessibility experts which can be booked via the app.
The effect is measurable: VEM CA has been Downloaded 15,000 times, and more than 600 barrier-free events have been recorded so far.
The app is funded through sponsorships from major corporations, but remains free for users. In the future, donation functions will be integrated directly into the app, and companies will also be able to provide accessible content for their employees in the future. Escola de Gente also plans to:
- the Tripling the number of users through marketing campaigns,
- one international expansion of the project,
- and the establishment of a youth network to raise awareness of inclusion.
Claudia Werneck, founder of Escola de Gente, sums it up:
“VEM CA will continue to evolve – because without accessibility, art and knowledge cannot survive.”
More information about the project here