Making the invisible visible.

My name is Fien, and I am the founder of DEAFLY.

DEAFLY. was born from a personal experience.

I was born hard of hearing in my left ear and profoundly deaf in my right. Throughout my life, I grew up in a hearing world. There was no guidebook, so I had to find my own way. Through trial and error, I learned how to navigate everyday life with hearing loss.

For many years, I tried to hide my hearing loss as much as possible. I didn't want to be seen as different. As a result, misunderstandings happened all too often. People thought I was ignoring them or not paying attention, when in reality, I simply hadn't heard them.

Because hearing loss is often invisible, people don't always realize the impact it has on everyday situations.

That became even more apparent when I started walking our two dogs almost every day. Cyclists would ring their bells or call out as they approached, but I couldn't hear them. Not because I was ignoring them, but because I simply couldn't.

Sometimes this led to dangerous situations, but also to frustration and misunderstanding.

During one of those walks, a simple idea came to mind.

What if I could make the invisible visible?

That's how DEAFLY. was born.

Not from a business plan, but from a genuine desire to make everyday life a little safer and easier for deaf and hard of hearing people.

Our first product is a backpack cover featuring the message "Visual Contact Please." It's a simple reminder to make visual contact before speaking to someone or passing them.

But DEAFLY. is about much more than one product.

It's a brand that strives to create greater safety, understanding, and visibility for deaf and hard of hearing people. Step by step, we aim to build a collection of practical products inspired by real-life experiences and everyday challenges.

Because sometimes, a small gesture can make a world of difference.

DEAFLY. Making the invisible visible.