Understanding the Challenge
Bader Alsharif has worked with deaf and hard-of-hearing people for over 15 years. He noticed that many people do not know sign language. This makes it hard for deaf individuals to talk to others. Bader wants to change this so that everyone can communicate better.
Using Technology to Help
Bader decided to use artificial intelligence (AI) to help with sign language. He explained, “I saw how tough it was for my students when others didn’t understand their signs.” He wants to create a smart system that can recognize sign language and turn it into words.
Here’s how it works:
- A camera watches someone using sign language.
- AI looks at the hand movements.
- The system matches these movements to letters and words.
- It then shows what those words mean.
Building a Smart System
Bader is working hard with a team to make this system better. They are building a big collection of images that show different sign language gestures and their meanings in English. They have almost 130,000 pictures. Each gesture has special points to help the AI understand it.
Right now, the system only translates sign language into English. But Bader wants to make it work for all languages, including Saudi Sign Language.
Future Goals
Bader’s next goal is to make the system translate spoken words into sign language, too. This way, everyone can communicate easily, no matter what language they speak.
Bader Alsharif Background
Bader Alsharif comes from Makkah, Saudi Arabia. He finished his bachelor’s degree in 2008 and started working in technology training. In 2017, he earned a master’s degree in computer engineering.
Since 2021, he has been studying for a doctorate at Florida Atlantic University. He focuses on sign language recognition and using AI in healthcare. Bader also helps more than 30 students with their engineering projects.
Making a Difference
Bader wants to use technology to solve real problems and help those with special needs. He lives in Boca Raton, Florida, with his wife and four children. He is thankful to the Saudi government for supporting his work.
Bader has also worked on other tech projects and published over 10 papers about AI and security in healthcare. He is dedicated to making technology accessible for everyone.
Conclusion
Bader Alsharif is using AI to help the deaf community communicate better. His work shows how technology can bring people together and make life easier for everyone. With his dedication and innovative ideas, Bader is making a positive impact on society.
