TWINKLE Workshop Introduces Pic-A-Talk: Transforming Communication with AAC Tools

The Teaching Workshop for Innovative New AAC Knowledge and Language Education (TWINKLE), a groundbreaking initiative focused on raising awareness about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools, held its debut event in the Visayas region on September 21, 2024. Hosted at the 1Nito Tower Event Hall in Cebu City, the event sought to bridge the communication gap for individuals facing speech and language challenges by providing attendees with hands-on experience and expert guidance.

In collaboration with the Juanito I. King Foundation, Inc. (JIKFI), the workshop brought together participants eager to explore the transformative impact of AAC tools like Pic-A-Talk. The Pic-A-Talk app, designed to assist individuals with communication difficulties, stood at the center of the event’s demonstrations. The highlight of the workshop was the guidance from leading AAC specialist Patrick Marvin P. Bulan, who shared invaluable knowledge on how AAC tools are used in real-world settings. Additionally, Uma Louise C. Roa, CEO and co-founder of Pic-A-Talk, delivered an inspiring keynote about the role AACs play in fostering meaningful communication for people with special needs.

Roa’s personal connection to AAC tools deepened the event’s significance. Her journey with AACs began when her sister Lea faced communication barriers, leading Roa to develop Pic-A-Talk during her college years. What started as a passion project has evolved into a mission to support families, caregivers, and educators in discovering the power of AAC technology. Roa expressed her gratitude to all who supported the workshop, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in breaking communication barriers. She shared how Pic-A-Talk is just one example of how technology can change lives, allowing individuals who struggle to express themselves to connect with the world around them.

The success of this event was made possible through the generous support of key partners, including DOST PCIEERD, ASEAN Foundation, SAP, TikTok, JCI Iligan Maria Cristina, and JCI Cebu (Cebu Jaycees). Their contributions enabled the event to offer free registration, meals, and exciting prizes to participants, ensuring that no one was excluded from this opportunity to learn. The atmosphere was vibrant, with Andreu Palacios Padernal of JCI Cebu emceeing the event, guiding attendees through the day’s sessions with enthusiasm and professionalism.