Migrating to a new distribution - Request for advice

["Fernando H. F. Botelho" <my lists f123 org>]

Hi everyone,

I lead a project called F123 (pronounced F 1 2 3) that adapts Ubuntu so 
that it is easier to install and use for someone who is blind or has low 
vision. We have both Live USB and conventional installation versions. 
Our users are mostly in Latin America and Africa.
As we are big fans of Orca and Ubuntu seems to be moving away from 
Gnome, I am starting to discuss with our developers which distribution 
might be a good fit for us moving forward.
Debian seems like a natural choice, but I thought I should check with 
you all for suggestions.
If this falls a bit outside of the usual conversations on the list, 
please write to me at fernando f123 org
Our needs can be summarized as maximum ease-of-use and hardware 
compatibility.
Thanks,

Fernando