WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla. — Stella Jimenez Castro of Stella's Jewelry and Embroidery leads with love, literally. It’s on her shirt — surrounded by a heart.

What You Need To Know

  •  The American Sign Language Festival in St. Pete will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

  • The free event will take place at Coastal Creative, 2201 1st Ave. S

  • Organizers say it will feature art, advocacy groups, and an evening poetry slam

Her just-finished dangling earrings are the American Sign Language sign for "I love you."

“People ask me all the time and they learn something new,” she said.

Jimenez Castro told Spectrum News through bi-lingual volunteer interpreter James Maucere that she grew up deaf in Columbia and she had to learn things by seeing them through designs, painting, and making jewelry. She says that’s how she saw the world.

She will be participating in the American Sign Language Festival in St. Pete Saturday. The free event is being held from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

“It’s great to show hearing people about deaf culture," said Jimenez Castro. "It tells hearing people that deaf people can do it too."

Organizer Tony Maucere says he hopes that hearing people won't be afraid to attend.

He said the festival will have vendors, deaf advocacy groups and entertainment.