Rise 'n Shine Disability Magazine

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Giving that keeps on

MASIBULELE WAKUTSU:

Savant of the South African Calendar

Finding Someone

Who Loves Her for Who She Is

MEET THE NUMBER ONE ATHLETE IN AFRICA

It is not like I never knew that eventually, I would need to give myself in.

EDITOR’S NOTE

As Rise’ N Shine publication, we send a word of gratitude to the Honourable MEC for the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure for all her assistance as we restructure our organisation. Her help and insight are greatly appreciated as we step through the process. We are so glad to have her as a part of this team. In the time she has been here, she has helped to make things run smoothly and will make our organisation more efficient.

“We genuinely appreciate your willingness to contribute wherever needed. This kind of flexibility and dedication will help this company grow to its full potential.”

There will be a disability month and national disability day in the following months on the 3rd of December. That is the only time disability issues are observed, as if we are not leaving from January to October.

The most crucial solution to Gender-Based Violence is education. Education at every level is one of the critical solutions to Gender-Based Violence. GBV is a learned behavior. That means it can be unlearned. Women need to know their rights, how to report violence, and how to reject harmful gender norms. Men must understand how patriarchal structures create these harmful gender norms and how their behavior may contribute to an unhealthy dynamic. Communities need to know what GBV looks like and how to react when they see it.

Little is known about violence against women with disabilities in South Africa. Given that South Africa has a high prevalence of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), especially intimate partner violence (IPV), there is a need to highlight the violent experiences of women with disabilities within their communities, intimate partnerships, and other settings. Women with disabilities in South Africa may experience additional layers of GBV because of their disability status. Consider how gender inequality, disability stigma, and disability-specific forms of abuse shape people with disabilities’ lives and experiences of violence.

While women with disabilities do seek help after IPV and sexual violence, they encounter unique barriers to GBV service provision. Service providers and women with disabilities acknowledge various limitations to providing inclusive and accessible services to women with disabilities who experience violence.

The most important solution to Gender-Based Violence is education. Education at every level is one of the critical solutions to Gender-Based Violence. GBV is a learned behavior. That means it can be unlearned. Women need to know their rights, how to report violence, and how to reject harmful gender norms. Men need to know how patriarchal structures create these harmful gender norms and how their behavior may contribute to an unhealthy dynamic. Communities need to understand what GBV looks like and how to react when they see it.

Cuma Bokwe Editor, Rise ‘N Shine

We genuinely appreciate your willingness to contribute wherever needed.

MEET THE TEAM

CUMA BOKWE

N 072 964 3669

Cuma Bokwe is a mother of two and the Project Manager of Rise ‘N Shine Disability Magazine. She is also the Chairperson of Disabled Women South Africa (DWSA). Chuma was born in Mdantsane, a township in the Eastern Cape. She studied a Secretarial Course and Office Administration at Border Technikon and Umtata Technical College respectively. She is a hands on and passionate leader who has worked in various departments of government. This includes the Eastern Cape Premier’s office where she worked as an Administrator, and the Department of Education as a Senior Personnel Officer for three years.

SBULELO NTSANGANI

N 076 737 6395

Sbulelo has spent most of her life giving back to the community of people with special needs. She was part of the task team that was assigned with organising and launching two disability-friendly clinics in the Eastern Cape. This was a national programme piloted at Buffalo City Municipality with clinics in Cambridge and Berlin. She has qualifications from East London College where she acquired Computer Skills, and then later in enrolled at SETA where she studied Financial & Project Management. She is currently the Marketing Manager of Rise ‘N Shine Disability Magazine.

NONKOSI VUSANI

N 073 135 8871

Nonkosi Vusani is an outspoken and passionate mother of two. She is the current Administrator for Rise ‘N Shine Disability Magazine. She studied Financial and Project Management at HDPSA Training College. Later the same year she enrolled at Entrepreneurial Business School to study Entrepreneurship. She was born in Mdantsane in the Eastern Cape. She was also involved with Disabled Women South Africa (DWSA) as a Receptionist and Administrator.

NOKUTHULA TSAWU

N 084 745 9944

Nokuthula Tsawu is a hard working mother of one and the senior Journalist for Rise ‘N Shine Disability Magazine. She has worked for Disabled People South Africa (DPSA) as a Provincial HIV/Aids Field Officer. She studied Communications and Computer Skills at the Academy of Learning. Nokuthula is competent in Personal Growth & Counselling and also interpreting sign language.

FOREWORD

As a member of the Eastern Cape Aids Council (BCMM CSF Chairperson), I am often invited by sectors to participate in workshops or to show support by visiting national leaders. Working with districts has given me the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the different sectors of the Eastern Cape Aids Council (ECAC).

I was invited by the Eastern Cape Disability Sector Leadership to discuss the National Strategic Plan (NSP) 20232028 of the South African National Aids Council (SANAC). I was impressed by the commitment shown by the Provincial Disability Sector Leaders, and their willingness to build the Sector from the ward level, district, provincial, and up to national levels. Bringing together organisations of different disabilities to form an inclusive sector that will carry the PIP forward. I was convinced that indeed the NSP 2023-

2028 has bold strategic objectives aimed at reducing barriers to health and social services.

It seems that the Disability Sector is taking this fifth NSP for HIV, TB, and STIs with such much open heart and willingness to go around the Eastern Cape Province and educate all the disability organisations. This is my belief that a united Eastern Cape Disability Sector can contribute immensely to the comprehensive strategy that aims to place the country on track to eliminate HIV, TB, and STIs as public health threats by 2030.

Now that the strategy has been organised into four interconnected goals and 28 objectives, the Sector can make its footprint known.

IN GOD WE TRUST.

Rev. Ndzuzo Novuka

RISE N SHINE

D I S A B I L I T Y M A G A Z I

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Acting Editor Cuma Bokwe

Contact Detail Eastern Cape 2307 N.U. 1 Mdantsane, 5219 Tel: 043 760 5138 Fax: 086 204 7713 Email: cumab@risenshine.org.za

Contact Detail Gauteng No 1 York Street Kensington B, Randburg Tel: 010 023 1845 Fax: 086 611 4478

Marketing Manager Sibulelo Ntsangani

Treasurer Nokuthula Tsawu

Admin Nonkosi Vusani

Publishing Advisor Meth Jayiya

Media Production Dumisani Hlatswayo

Production Assistant Nqobile Zakwe

Advertising Sales advertise@risenshine.org.za

Editorial Enquiries cumab@risenshine.org.za sbulelo702@gmail.com

General Enquiries Fax: 086 204 7713

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Terms & Conditions of use / Disclaimer Rise ‘N Shine Magazine is a product of Rise ‘N Shine NPO. 1 York Street, Kensington B, Randburg, 2194. Rise ‘N Shine considers its sources reliable and verifies as much data as possible. However, reporting inaccuracies can occur, consequently readers using this information do so at their own risk. Rise ‘N Shine is sold with the understanding that the publisher is not rendering a legal or advisory service. Although companies and contributors mentioned herein are believed to be reputable, neither Rise ‘N Shine nor any of its employees, sales executives or contributors accept any responsibility whatsoever for such persons’ and companies’ activities. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted deemed valid if approval is in writing. Rise ‘N Shine buys all rights to contribution, text, images unless previously agreed to in writing.

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RISE N SHINE

Shines the Spotlight on TB and HIV

There is a lack of disability data collection in HIV and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) surveillance and biomedical research in South Africa. HIV-prevalence data, apart from self-reporting, is non-existent. This lack of data makes it difficult to accurately assess the needs of people with disabilities and to ensure that services are tailored to their specific needs. Without this data, it is almost impossible to develop targeted interventions to improve the health and well-being of people with disabilities.

Despite research indicating that men with disabilities and women with disabilities are 1.5 and 2.2 times more likely to be infected with HIV, respectively. These figures are even higher for people with disabilities from minority populations. This disparity is often attributed to a lack of adequate access to healthcare, as well as stigma and discrimination against people with disabilities.

The following factors contribute to HIV and TB issues:

Absence of research: Continued failure to consider People With Disabilities (PWD) in the design of programmes, services, and budgets. Additionally, increases their lack in access to services, information, and support.

Lack of Access: People with disabilities are excluded and neglected in all sectors responding to SRHR. This exclusion is due to a lack of awareness and understanding of their needs and rights. As a result, they often have limited access to health services and information. This has led to an increase in health disparities and inequality.

Physical Services: often are not physically accessible and lack support for alternative modes of communication.

Attitudinal barriers: Myths that PWD is asexual or incapable of sexuality and reproduction and therefore do not need services.

Education: Compared to children without disabilities, children with disabilities are twice as likely to not attend school. Children with disabilities attending school lack access to comprehensive sexuality

education (CSE) = Educators hold negative beliefs about their need for CSE or lack the skills and tools to accommodate learners with disabilities.

Our recommendations and conclusion were:

Formulate and implement policies and programs using sex, age, and disabilitydisaggregated data. Harmonise and fund disability data collection across the health and other sectors to enable targeted service delivery and reporting. Involve PWDs, their organisations, advocates, and researchers in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of SHRHpolicies and guidelines. Develop disabilityspecific implementation plans, monitor and evaluate (i.e. disability indicators), and allocate resources appropriately.

Ensure that PWDs have access to justice on an equal basis with others, and develop and integrate programs that prevent violence against PWDs. Provide access to education, HIV and CSE, to young people with disabilities that is gender, age, and disability sensitive. To develop and strengthen the integration of HIV, SRHR and rehabilitation services in poorer resource settings. Lastly, to Sensitise and train appropriate staff. It was a day’s workshop and we felt that a day is not enough for sessions like these.

In a move towards combating the persistent threat of tuberculosis, Rise ‘N Shine took charge on the 22nd of December 2023 by organising the Provincial TB Day. This event was a crucial precursor to the upcoming National TB Day in June 2023, as it aimed to raise awareness and educate individuals on the dangers of tuberculosis. By galvanizing communities and promoting preventative measures, Rise ‘N Shine is spearheading efforts to create a TB-free society.

With an exciting new home, we’re excited to see how this change will create a positive ripple effect in the lives of those around them.

Navigating the dating world can be tough for anyone, but it can be especially challenging for individuals living with HIV and disabilities. Those who are also blind may face even more obstacles when searching for love.

These additional barriers can make finding a romantic partner seem like an impossible dream, but Babalwa’s story proves that with faith and perseverance, it is definitely possible to find someone who loves you for who you are.

Babalwa Tubeni Mahlangu was born and raised in the quaint village of Nxarhuni, in the Eastern Cape. She recalled the 4th of November 1987, and a joyful day to her grandmother, a day when her parents decided to end their tumultuous relationship.

Though some may see it as a tragic circumstance, her grandmother found pure joy on the day Babalwa’s parents parted ways, allowing her to raise the young girl as her own.

From attending Makunga Mvalo Public School to later pursuing her education at Ngwenyathi High School, Babalwa thrived in her studies as a first-born to her father and a third-born to her mother. Her upbringing may have been different from others, but it was filled with love, resilience, and a deep appreciation for family.

Babalwa’s journey was marked by both challenges and triumphs. Despite falling pregnant during her Grade 11 year and facing the daunting prospect of motherhood, Babalwa managed to pass her matric with flying colours. But her challenges did not stop there - she was also diagnosed with HIV and began ART treatment to manage the virus. Thankfully, hope and relief were on the horison with the announcement that the Nevara Pill would be available to prevent the transmission of HIV to unborn babies.

The Nevara Pill was a game-changer for Babalwa and countless other mothers living with HIV. She was able to have a healthy baby, free from HIV, and the pill has since brought hope to countless other families.

“After that, I studied Human Resource Management at the Academy College in

East London. It was a Monday in February, during orientation week, and I had a terrible headache. After my aunt took me to Cecilia Makiwane, I was diagnosed with TB meningitis and my eyes became blurry. Unfortunately, I lost my sight in April 2008,” Babalwa told Rise N Shine.

In the face of adversity, her life took an unexpected turn when she and her child were forced to rely on others due to her disability. However, Babalwa refused to let her circumstances define her or limit her aspirations. She bravely regained her confidence, and even opened herself up to the world of dating. She said her parents struggled to comprehend her desire for a normal life and the fact that she was just like anyone else, with feelings and dreams of her own.

It wasn’t an easy feat, but through determination and perseverance, they were able to bridge the gap and find common ground. This serves as a reminder to other people with disabilities that they have a voice, and that they should never let others make decisions on their behalf. And that it’s important to take control of your life and assert your rights with courage and conviction.

“At SANCB Optima College in 2010, I studied computer literacy and Braille, where I met my love of life, Nqobile. Nqobile is HIV-negative and we married in 2013. In addition to being partially sighted, Nqobile was

born this way. We have been married for approximately ten years now. In addition to my first-born child, we have two handsome boys, so we have three HIVnegative, healthy children. We are a very happy family,” Babalwa said.

Though she faces disability, she lives a fulfilling life as a working wife and mother. She runs her household with ease, provides for her family, and even helps with her children’s homework. But that’s not all - she also serves as a motivational speaker, using her experience to inspire others to confront their own challenges. By sharing her story, she hopes to show that we can overcome obstacles and find success.

“We can work together as a nation. We can stand up to life challenges. No man is an island,” she concluded. Babalwa’s inspiring story is a testament to her resilience and the power of medical breakthroughs to change lives.

I met the love of my life, Nqobile.

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Nosiphiwo Masikane also known as Gogo Manzini is a certified healer who went through the Ancestral Traditional Healing journey in 2021. Ever since, she has learned a lot about herself and her tradition. Her practice in ubungoma is an innate calling and a gift of healing others using a gift from your ancestors, which may not be given to everyone.

As soon as Nosiphiwo accepted her ancestral gift, her life changed dramatically. As a result, she became more committed to providing healing services to those in need. She also became more emotionally attuned to the needs of others.

When should you undergo ukuthwasa? This is one of the most frequently asked questions. Undergoing ukuthwasa differs from one person to another. A person may receive a dream from their ancestors that they should undergo training. There are others who find out when they consult a sangoma who will advise them to undergo the training

According to Nosiphiwo, it was the right time for her to take this big step. “It is not like I never knew that eventually, I would need to give myself in because I already knew that I was a gifted child, the chosen one. I was told countless times…” she enthused.

Nosiphiwo knew she could see beyond the naked eye, but she never imagined that one day she would be called umlaphi wendabuko (traditional healer) and be tasked with healing the nation. She took this step because she felt it was the right time, not only for herself but for everyone in her family. Have you ever heard of breaking a curse for your family? This is what Nosiphiwo considered when she decided to train as a sangoma. “My family was not pleased with my decision not because we never performed traditional things at home but because ukuthwasa was taboo for them; they did not know what happens to someone once they take that step,” she said.

After completing the training process, she believed she would be fine. She also said her family had to trust the process and their ancestors. Otherwise, they would never choose her if it was difficult. We can imagine her smiling and adding that she was ready for whatever life had in store for her. Or even reminding her family that they always have each other’s back.

“I remember my uncle once said I had a trance while I was visiting him (prior to initiating) where he did not know what to do, that’s when he said to me, Nosiphiwo the time has come, you are doing this. I was so shocked because I woke up with wet clothes, garlic in my mouth, and a room filled with incense because he was trying, by all means, to bring me back to my old self,” she recalled. Nosiphiwo does not remember what really happened in that short period of time because she had blacked out.

“I had the fear of the unknown, however I kept the good spirit going because again my family was in my thoughts and I knew what I wanted out of this journey, ” she said.

At some point, she believed ukuthwasa would be impossible for her due to her disability, but little did she know she could manage. A nagging doubt she couldn’t shake off. However, with the help of her family, Nosiphiwo was able to find ways to adapt her journey to fit her needs. Through perseverance and dedication, she was able to successfully complete her ukuthwasa.

This journey would have not been easy for her if it was not for her sister and uncle and her gobela. The term ‘gobela’ refers to a person whose duty is to train a sangoma.

“I am so happy that my Gobela didn’t treat me differently because of my disability, I was treated equally with my initiation mates, and I did everything they would also do, showing I never let my disability hold me back whatsoever,” she said.

Whenever someone asks her “how can someone with a disability be a healer?” she responds with pride that her ancestors made it possible. She believes her disability gives her an advantage in being a healer. This is because she can empathise with people who are struggling and understands how to help them. She is determined to use her experiences to help others in any way she can.

Her clients have faith in her, which makes her ancestral calling easier. She describes her clients as loving, helpful, and understanding. Thank you so much, I really appreciate it”, she added.

As part of my healing journey, I also make homemade herbal products (soaps, salts,

herbal medicine, and oils). These are for home use for those who need them and for those who are far from me. I have healed clients as far as Germany, Namibia, Zimbabwe through my gift and believe I will heal more,” she added.

In the near future, Nosiphiwo plans to open a home essentials business outside of Ubunyanga to provide products such as candles, diffusers, soaps, and coasters. This will be a luxury brand that specializes in exceeding expectations in every way.

Whenever Nosiphiwo is not treating patients, she is baking cookies and biscuits. “I am also drawn to baking biscuits and scones for those who need baked goods for events. I noticed that healers make so many events that require baked goods, but not so many deliver when it comes to that in my area, so that’s where I’ll step in. Call me a jack of all trades if you can,” Nosiphiwo said.

“Everything I do is out of my own pocket, I have knocked on the doors of NYDA and government with no luck, although they always preach inclusivity, even with my NGO, Ladies On Wheels, I have never been assisted. Sadly, the government is failing us big time. My business ideas need funding, but I doubt that will happen, so I would rather go with my business ideas, she said. It is my hope that one day I will be noticed and assisted in building an empire for myself and my family. Kusazokhanya.”

It is not like I never knew that eventually, I would need to give myself in.

Sky Limit

The is not the for this Angel

It’s rare to find a creative and affectionate child with Spina Bifida, a congenital disability that affects the development of the spinal cord and spine. It can lead to physical and cognitive impairments which can limit the ability to express creativity and show affection.

However, Amy Faith Lombaard is one of few children with Spina Bifida who can express themselves creatively and show love and affection. She’ll be 11 this year, since she was born on the 7th of July, 2011. Despite her condition, Amy plays the piano, draws, and swims - she can do all things she loves. “I want to be an author, I want to write stories, and I want to play piano,” Amy said eagerly.

Her condition was later confirmed to be Spina Bifida Myelomeningocele, one of the most severe types. As a result, Amy’s Bifida was positioned high up on the back where the ribcage starts. “This was confirmed by three separate doctors. During that time, we were prepared for the worst and advised at every checkup to terminate the pregnancy. They said Amy would have a severe developmental delay, she would be brain-damaged and paralysed. She would never roll over, sit, stand, she would never walk. She would have no control over her bladder and bowel movements,” her mother told Rise N Shine.

Her parents considered abortion, but as it turned out, it was not an option for them. Her mother said they had a firm belief that God would guide them through and show them how to handle the condition in the best possible way.

“Moreover we believed that He would heal Amy. Throughout the years, we have had countless experiences in which we saw God work miracles in Amy’s young life from well before her birth. I could always feel Amy kicking while still pregnant, but with each sonar checkup she would lie dead still,” Amy’s mother explained.

Amy’s first sign that she was special was passing her Apgar score with flying colours when she was born. Her parents were amazed and knew she was destined for greatness. She was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit, which is where she remained for about two weeks. Baby Amy, unfortunately, would be diagnosed with another condition, Hydrocephalus. She underwent surgery at 11 days old to close the spine, remove the spinal fluid sack, and insert a shunt to assist with the drainage of spinal fluid.

“After two weeks in ICU, Amy was transferred to the regular neonatal unit where she remained another week and was then discharged. She had several MRI scans during this time and this revealed that the brain seemed to be misformed. This did not surprise doctors given her diagnosis. Doctors could not tell us how damaged Amy’s brain would be, and we would have to wait and see what milestones (if any),” her mother recalled.

Despite the poor prognosis, Amy behaved like any other baby, moving her arms, legs, and body normally and showing no signs of disability. Her mother will never forget meeting one of her doctors who first advised them to terminate. After seeing Amy, the doctor said Amy had a pretty good chance of living a fairly normal life.

As Amy progressed, she managed to meet all of her milestones. “Each milestone was not only a huge win for Amy, but also a miracle. As Amy grew, she learned to roll over, sit, and crawl. She was potty trained, proving that she was able to control her bladder and bowels. It didn’t take her long to learn how to speak, and her mental milestones were all met on time, if not early. The only sign that she showed of any disability was her left leg which was paralysed. We would later learn that the paralysed leg was a result of her hip dysplasia, her hip bone was crushing the nerves in her leg. This had almost nothing to do with the Spina bifida,” she said.

“By the age of 4, Amy learned to walk with crutches. She took her first steps and became more mobile. She crawled everywhere or used her small motorbike to get around up until this point. At age 5, she started Grade RR and did exceptionally well. She climbed all over the jungle gym equipment and teachers were amazed at her mobility. She has a spirit that draws people to her, has many friends, and was loved by all. She also excelled at her school work and showed no signs of mental or cognitive disability,” she added.

In 2017, she underwent major surgery to repair her hip and place it back in its correct position. The procedure involved the partial replacement of the hip. She also had her leg muscles and bones lengthened and her foot bones straightened so that her leg could be more aligned with her right leg.

Having completed Grade R with flying colours, Amy was very excited to begin Grade 1. In Grade 1, Amy performed very well academically; however, after just a few weeks, her parents were called into a meeting and informed that Amy was taking six minutes longer to use the bathroom than other children and was

not suitable for a mainstream school. The Department of Education was also present to discuss sending Amy to a special needs school. “Given Amy’s academic ability and the fact that other than her leg she had no signs of the disability that she was born with, we felt this was unnecessary and would impact Amy negatively,” said her mother.

“It was at that point that we took the decision to homeschool Amy instead, and enrolled her in a Cambridge International Curriculum. Since then she has excelled at school and is very diligent in doing her schoolwork almost entirely on her own.”

Amy loves animals, especially horses. She enjoys writing and hopes to become published one day. She is in Grade 6 and received an average of 81.6% for her Grade 5 year. Even the sky won’t be a limit for this cute angel.

Throughout the years, we have had countless experiences in which we saw God work miracles in Amy’s young life.

MANGOSUTHU UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

WILL PROCURE THE

ENDUDUZWENI CENTRE FOR THE DISABLED

Since the 1990s, the Enduduzweni Centre for the Disabled in Umlazi has been both a home and a workplace for a group of people living with disabilities. Currently, there are 38 people working and living at the centre. Most of them are blind.

They do craft work and use their social grants to buy materials such as cane and varnish to make items such as chairs and trays. They sell trays for between R120 and R250 and chairs from R700. Buyers come to the centre but business has been slow. The group say the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Social Development (DSD) has abandoned them ever since they resisted vacating the centre in 2018. The centre is dilapidated. The windows are broken, the ceilings are collapsing, the toilets are not working properly, and the grass has not been mown for months.

In November 2018, the Durban High Court ordered the department and the eThekwini Municipality to reconnect the centre’s electricity. There are rumours that the provincial Department of Public Works is planning to sell the centre to the Mangosuthu University of Technology. On Monday, spokesperson Mlu Khumalo confirmed that the department is currently finalising the sale of the centre to an institution, but he refused to name the institution.

He said the institution that takes over will assist the current occupants, and that all stakeholders agreed to “ensure that the livelihoods of the occupants are not disrupted in any manner”. But none of the occupants we spoke to last week were aware of any pending sale of the building where they live and work in.

Sibongile Mdwadwa started to work at Enduduzweni in 1999. She is blind and lives at the centre.

She said DSD took away their stipends in 2018 and told them to apply for disability grants. She had been earning R6, 000 a month. A disability grant is R1, 990. It will increase to R2, 080 in April. Mdwadwa raised her four children through the work she did at the centre.

“They are treating us like we are nothing,” she said.

She said the centre was originally built by the Natal Society for the Blind in 1938, and they feel this is a legacy to uphold. “The only thing we want from them [government] is to renovate this centre and we will take it from there. We have the skill. We will continue training other disabled people,” she said. Maria Cebekhulu said they had each donated R500 of their disability grant money to buy material in December. “The only thing we currently don’t have is varnish but we will buy it once we receive our social grants,” she said.

Cebekhulu lives in one room. The window is broken, the ceiling is damp, and the toilet next to her room is vandalised. There are security guards at the building but vandalism persists. “We are not safe. Criminals do as they please by stealing cables. If this centre was not important to us we would have gone home a long time ago,” said Cebekhulu. “I have two children and

they are still young – eight and 14. Their education is expensive. I can’t raise them with only a disability grant. I have big dreams for my children. I want to give them the best education that I didn’t have, but our government doesn’t seem to understand,” she said.

Provincial DSD spokesperson Mhlaba Memela said that in 2015/16, the plan was for a major renovation to transform the centre from being a centre for the blind to one for disability, and it asked Public Works to assess the building.

Its report found the place not suitable for occupation under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and building regulations. The building was condemned and it was recommended that it be shut down and an alternative place found.

“Another detailed condition assessment was conducted by an independent service provider who also condemned the building,” said Memela. The department had intended to relocate the occupants to facilities for the elderly or to live with their families. “Some of the occupants refused to vacate the building,” said Memela. Others that had gone to live with their families soon moved back to the centre.

Story sourced from GroudUp: https:// www.groundup.org.za/article/ durban-centre-for-people-living-withdisability-to-be-sold/

NUMBER ONE

MEET THE ATHLETE IN AFRICA

In the rustic beauty of Flagstaff village, Eastern Cape, 1980 saw the birth of a unique and spirited individual named Mziwamadoda Camba. Gifted with distinctiveness, Mziwamadoda embraced life as a congenital amputee – a journey that would inspire countless others.

Being born with a congenital amputee condition comes with many challenges. There are many ways in which limb loss affects people. As an example, it can have a profound effect on the child and his or her siblings. Parents, however, face a particularly difficult situation.

“I have disabilities on my left hand and right foot. We have five children at home, four boys and one girl. I am the third child of my parents. “I have two children (a boy and a girl),” he told Rise N Shine.

Mziwamadoda embarked on an exciting educational journey, which began at the enchanting Khwezilokusa Special School, where he spent his formative years. As his curiosity grew, so did his desire to gain further knowledge. This led him to the vibrant city of Pretoria, where he pursued his passion for learning at Philadelphia Secondary School in Soshanguve. But Mziwamadoda’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable - this powerhouse of potential then ventured to the bustling metropolis of Johannesburg, where he delved into the electrifying world of Electrical Engineering at the prestigious Johannesburg Technical College.

“I completed my diploma in 2000. From 2000 to 2010, I worked for different IT companies. In 2010, I returned home to Flagstaff and did everything I could to survive. I farmed, raised poultry, and sold water. I came to East London for a one-year learnership with Mercedes Benz South Africa in 2016. During the year 2017, I was employed at South African Police Services as Human Resource Personnel, but after the National Pandemic of Covid19, I was moved to the front desk to do Support Servicing, capturing dockets, and fingerprinting,” he said.

From their early days in primary school, Mziwamadoda and his friends were passionate about sports. Today, Mziwamadoda’s dedication has led him to excel in Athletics with SAPS, as well as coach the prestigious Eastern Cape Provincial Basketball Team. As a sign of their success, the wheelchair basketball team ranks second and third in the region, while their Under 23 squad stands proudly as the top team nationwide. Despite losing talented players to other provinces due to inadequate facilities and sponsorships, a staggering 70% of both the under 23 and senior players hail from the Eastern Cape, showcasing the area’s undeniable talent and perseverance.

“Wheelchair basketball is my passion, and I am doing it as an outreach program to empower people with disabilities not only in sports but also in all areas of their lives. Sponsorships are handled by our own manager. As for me, athletics keeps me healthy and strong. My dream is to compete in the World Competitions and Paralympics.”

Muziwamadoda is currently ranked number one in Africa, and possibly in the top five worldwide, but this has yet to be proven. It would be great if he could participate in the World Tournaments. His wish is to have a centre or facility in Buffalo City Municipality that can cater to the sports needs of people with disabilities. Many people will be motivated and encouraged to take part in sports as a result.

“People in other parts of the Eastern Cape love sport, but they cannot participate in sports because of a lack of resources, funds, and sport active centers,” he said.

When you’re backed by a loving tribe, even sport’s tough battles are fought with newfound confidence and courage. Mzi is one such lucky person to come from a supportive family. His family is always supportive, even when he plays sports. They are there to show their support. The initiative is even supported by the community. We consider ourselves blessed because we are always surrounded by love and support.”

“All people living with disabilities should always pursue their dreams and those who love sports as I do should search around for resources that can help them reach their full potential. A healthy mind and body are built by being active in sport,” he concluded.

A healthy mind and body are built by being active in sport.

SAVANT OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN CALENDAR

Author: Dr. Mathaphelo Carol Molefe-Zwelibanzi

person with savant syndrome has a high knowledge level but a low IQ. Any person who exhibits the characteristics of a savant is said to have exceptional talent in one particular field. Typically, these individuals possess talents in music, art, calendar calculating, lightning calculation, and mechanical or visual-spatial skills. Here is how Molefe-Zwelibanzi explains it all:

SAVANT SYNDROME: WHAT IS IT?

There is one thing researchers agree on: it is possible to live a perfectly normal life with savant syndrome. For a child with savant syndrome who has been bullied by other children, it is possible to find them excelling in mathematics and focusing only on that area. It is common for them to perform complicated calculations instantly in their heads, far beyond the capabilities of an ordinary calculator.

What is astonishing about this condition is that the juxtaposition of that talent against the impairment is very remarkable-the talent outweighs the impairment. The five categories of savant skills are art, music, calendar calculation, light calculation, and visual-spatial ability. Exceptional skills are only found in a few savants around the world.

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For example, the Late Kim was Autistic and would memorize thousands of books, each of which had been read only once. Let us consider another example, Steven Wiltshire, another Autistic savant known as the Human camera. Stephen has a photographic memory, referred to as an Eidetic memory. He can carefully sketch any building, having seen it for a few minutes from memory, right from the number of floors and windows on each building, as if he had a picture in his mind.

Considering the above, savant syndrome is often associated with exceptional memory

WAKUTSU MASIBULELE: THE CALENDAR SAVANT

Masibulele has a developmental disorder called Dysarthria, a “motor speech disorder resulting from neurological injury of the motor component of the speech system and is characterised by the poor articulation of phenomes.” Masibulele finds it difficult to utter these words because of his condition.

As a result of his developmental disorder, Masibulele had difficulty in school. But what was mind-blowing about him during his school days was that he had an exceptional talent, he could tell the day of the week for any given date, past or future. He could instantly tell you which day of the week it was, for example, 12/04/1994, with great precision and speed. He also enjoyed creating calendars from the head and would walk around the school displaying those calendars.

When asked to explain how does it (calendar calculation), he says he can memorise things. I don’t think he can explain how he knows dates. He claims that he could memorise stuff, but it doesn’t explain why he didn’t succeed in school, as he could memorise stuff. It puzzled his teachers that he didn’t do well in school despite his ability to remember dates.

MY AHA MOMENTS

During the first hard lockdown in South Africa, I undertook to search for answers about Masibulele’s condition. I found that his condition is referred to as Savant Syndrome. I also found the answers to the puzzle as to why he did not do well in school, considering that all savants have deep memories. According to the literature reviewed, I found that while savants have an incredible memory, this memory, although deep, is additionally very narrow and is connected to only one skill, such as art savant, musical savant, or calendar savant except for the very few, who were multi-talented, such is limited to only one skill called calendar savants. In my opinion, he should also be included in the list of Calendar Savants, such as George Widener (the Calendar Savant).

HOW DO SAVANTS DO IT?

There is consensus among the researchers about the definition of savant and what constitutes savant syndrome. When it comes to how savants do what they do, they have different perspectives, which this article will not document due to the limited space. However, I will share Dr. Treffert’s views on how savants do it.

CONCLUSION

I am firmly convinced that if Masibulele Wakustu was given the opportunity to showcase his talents (like all other savants in the world) and create calendars for his community from his head, that experience would change his life for the better, and he would feel appreciated as a result.

If we were to create opportunities for him to earn a living doing what he enjoys, to create calendars, and calculate dates, it would give him the confidence and sense of belonging required for everyone to flourish. Most importantly, he would experience joy that is beyond comprehension.

Whether his life would have been different if he had been given the opportunity to showcase his talent is unknown. As human beings, what are we if we do not expose and support those who are differently gifted? Let us give them the platform to shine, to exhibit their God-given talent.

He said he doesn’t see a disabled person when seeing me.

Help us educate people about the dif ferent t ypes of disabilities and remove the s tigma surrounding them.

HE ALMOST KILLED ME BUT HE HANGED HIMSELF FUNDUKWAZI

HELPS CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

THE LOVE OF ARTS BREAK DISABILITY BOUNDRIES

THE BLIND DJ

“IT’S ABOUT WHERE YOU PUT YOUR FOCUS.”

INSPIRED | INFORMED | INDEPEND

GIVING UP & SELF-PITY: NOT AN OPTION

RISE 'N SHINE GBV TRAINING TO END IMPUNITY

GUEST HOUSE OWNER BREAKS BOUNDARIES

ACHIEVING BEYOND SOCIETY LIMITS

WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL NEEDS EXPOSURE IN TOWNSHIPS

HEARING LOSS CAN'T SLOW HER DOWN

DOWN EPENDENT | INVINCIBLE