My name is Pere, and I am 33 years old. I am Catalan. Since I was a child, I have been passionate about aviation. I spend more time in airports than at home because I travel whenever I can. So far, I’ve visited over 60 countries, covering more than 850,000 kilometers by air. I have Usher Syndrome Type 1D, born with profound deafness, and my native language is Catalan Sign Language (LSC).

I studied for a year at Gallaudet University in the USA to learn English. I hold a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management and a degree in Aeronautical Management. I also worked for a Spanish airline.

Two years ago, my vision deteriorated, and I felt confused because I had to face a change in how I identified myself. I transitioned from identifying as a deaf person to a deafblind person, and it felt like being caught in a storm. But I’ve made it through. There have been changes in my professional, social, and emotional life. In the end, I’ve found my space of comfort and safety. I’m doing much better now; my stress levels have decreased, and I’m happy because I’ve clarified and accepted my identity as a deafblind person with Usher Syndrome. I’ve made new friends who share the same vision challenges, and we enjoy many things together. I’m no longer so alone—every little bit helps!

I consider myself an activist for the rights of deaf and deafblind people, including those with Usher Syndrome. Thanks to my Master’s degree in Human Resources Management, I currently participate in projects to raise awareness about this disability and to help improve social, labor, and educational rights to enhance the quality of life on a European and global level.

Recently, I was nominated as the Youth Commission Leader for the WFDB (World Federation of the Deafblind). In this role, I will collaborate with IDA (International Disability Alliance) and the UN (United Nations) for four years.