‘Remove the barriers and include us.’

Inclusion, accessibility and representation.

That is what Scado Mkhondo, an Etwatwa model, actor and activist for the disabled, has dedicated her time to fighting.

From those with cognitive disabilities to those wheelchair-bound, the Etwatwa resident has, since 2012, rolled up her sleeves to ensure the education system, performing arts industry and transport sector, among others, are accessible to and inclusive of the disabled.

Disappointed with how teachers and learners, the police, health officials, and taxi drivers treated her, Mkhondo decided to stand up.

“I decided to take a stand after witnessing the injustices and lack of opportunities for people with disabilities,” she said.

“The education system still has many challenges for children with disabilities. There are not enough schools. Some children end up at training centres where they don’t wish to go.”

Mkhondo, who has a learning disability, was fortunate to find a school that suited her needs.

She believes the education system must improve and introduce technical studies at special-needs schools so learners can pursue careers in fields such as engineering.

“We are excluded. The system has to be more accommodating. It should improve so we become more skilled instead of being looked at like we can’t read and write.”

This exclusion meant she couldn’t attend mainstream schools and, as such, couldn’t obtain a matric certificate, which affected her chances of getting a bursary to further her studies, applying for a job or going for auditions.

“As someone with a learning disability, this is not only for me. It’s for every child who can’t read and write. We are bullied and told we are dumb. I believe every child is enough. No child is born dumb.”

No representation in creative arts

“Slowly but surely, the industry is opening up for people with disabilities,” she said.

Mkhondo has always wanted to be an actor, but inclusion and access have been barriers. She said it’s insulting that some productions still cast able-bodied people to play characters who portray people with disabilities.

“It’s an insult because acting is a job. Our constitution stipulates that we should all be treated fairly. Companies are required to employ people with disabilities. This includes the performing and creative arts industries.

“In acting, when a person with a disability is hired, their role is not educational. How are we supposed to stop the stigma associated with disability when there’s no awareness?” she asked.

She believes roles about disability should be educational because when she sees someone different on TV, she expects lessons, adding that roles should educate society about how they cope with their daily struggles.

“Media is the only tool we have to inform and educate. I look at it from the struggles of not having ramps, the right ablution facilities and someone parked in a disability parking. If the media is not zooming in on such issues, then we are losing this battle,” she said.

Stigma and how she has coped

Mkhondo said the viral video of a homeless man pretending to be disabled and then walking normally after being handed cash by a motorist added to the stigma that disabled people need handouts.

“People have to understand that we are independent. Given access, a child with a disability can thrive. Unfortunately, in our country, it’s still a challenge.”

With the help of her mother, Rita, who taught her independence from a young age, she was able to cope despite her challenges.

“This is a partnership. If we want to create an inclusive society, we must remove the barriers.”

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