AI-powered accessibility through NZSL and plain-language communication
Overview
Kindred is an AI-powered accessibility app co-developed to help Deaf users understand essential information more independently. It summarises uploaded documents and presents key information through New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) and plain-language captions.
My Role
Business Analysis • Research • Presentation
I contributed to the project through business analysis and research, helping shape the solution, define its value proposition, review comparable accessibility technologies, and support the final presentation.
The Challenge
Important information can be difficult to access when documents are complex, text-heavy, or not available in a format that meets the communication needs of Deaf users.
The Solution
Kindred transforms uploaded information into more accessible content by combining:
- AI-powered document summarisation
- New Zealand Sign Language presentation
- Plain-language captions
- Accessibility-focused user experience
Outcome
🥈 Runner-up — New Zealand AI Hackathon 2026 | Unitec / MIT
📌 Submitted — New Zealand Smart Sustainable Development (SSD) 2026