Location: SPAIN
The Project
Dance is a universal language, but for Deaf adults, participation is often limited by communication barriers. Deaf Can Dance, a project of MeetShareDance led by Monika Požek, is transforming this reality through inclusive contemporary dance classes where Deaf and hearing participants move together. By introducing Spanish Sign Language interpretation and offering short sign language lessons, the project created an environment where everyone can share in the rhythm and connection of movement.
“Accessibility is not just about opening doors; it’s about making sure people feel welcome and included once inside,” Požek said.
The classes now bring together people from diverse ages and backgrounds, showing how grassroots organizations can build stronger, more connected communities.
The Impact of the Seed Grant
The Pollination Project grant played a pivotal role in turning this vision into practice. With its support, the team funded interpretation and language-learning sessions, removing one of the main barriers that had kept Deaf participants from returning regularly. From January to July 2025, Deaf Can Dance offered 28 fully accessible classes and provided interpretation for workshops.
One of the most meaningful outcomes was the inclusion of a Deaf dancer into the professional inclusive dance company, a milestone that demonstrates how micro grants for social change can spark real transformation.
“The grant allowed us to bridge two worlds,” Požek explained. “It gave us the means to create equity in the studio and to prove that inclusive arts can thrive.”
The project directly impacted 45 people, fostering new skills, greater awareness of Deaf culture, and measurable community development outcomes.
The Future
Now, Deaf Can Dance plans to resume inclusive classes in September with instructors trained in sign language, expand outreach to Deaf adults, and organize performances in schools for Deaf children. They will also host events to engage interpreters more deeply with the world of dance.
With Monika Požek herself now enrolled in a full Spanish Sign Language course, the project is strengthening its long-term capacity for inclusion. Guided by dignity, compassion, and sustainable community building, this initiative is a living example of how charitable giving can fuel grassroots success stories and create lasting social impact.
Thanks to the support of the TPP grant, we were able to make our dance classes accessible to Deaf adults who want to take part. We have also developed a deeper understanding of the needs of the Deaf community in the context of the performing arts.
Monika Požek
Monika Požek is a choreographer, teacher, and Artistic Director known for her commitment to inclusive dance and accessibility in the performing arts. She is the founder of the MeetShareDance Association (2012) and the MAD Kolektiv dance company (2018), leading projects that bring together professional and untrained dancers of all abilities. With over a decade of experience, she has organized eleven international editions of the MeetShareDance festival across eight countries, fostering global collaboration in inclusive dance. Her work often blends contemporary dance, community engagement, and digital innovation.
Monika has been recognized internationally as the recipient of the Fulbright Schuman Award (2014), the BeInclusive EU Sport Award (2017), and the CEC ArtsLink Fellowship (2021).
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