Helen Keller
Unable to see or hear from infancy, she became a world-famous author and advocate.
Where it began
Born in Alabama in 1880, she lost her sight and hearing after an illness at about 19 months old.
The challenge
With no way to communicate, her early childhood was full of frustration.
The turning point
In 1887 teacher Anne Sullivan arrived and began spelling words into her hand. Helen connected the word 'water' with the water flowing over her hand, and language opened up.
The journey
She learned to read braille and to speak, and graduated from Radcliffe College in 1904.
The impact
She wrote books, travelled the world and advocated for people with disabilities for the rest of her life.
What we can learn
- Great teachers change lives.
- Communication is a door worth opening.
- Your challenges do not limit your voice.
Tell the story
Speaking challenge
Retell Helen Keller’s story in 1 minute: where they began, the challenge, the turning point, and one lesson for you.
Say it out loud. Nobody is listening — that’s the point. Mistakes are allowed.
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