Thabelo Makgashana was barely seven years old when he realised he was different and started isolating himself.
He did this because his peers in primary school called him names and others feared him because of misconceptions about his condition – albinism.
Thabelo, now 26, is an HIV/Aids peer educator at the Tembisa Healthcare Centre and no longer lives in isolation but lives comfortably in his own skin after accepting that he is more than just his skin.
“Growing up was quite a challenge because people fear what they don’t understand, but the moment I accepted my difference people warmed up to me and that was an opportunity to show them that the only difference between them and me was the colour of my skin,” Thabelo said.
September is commemorated as Albinism Awareness Month.
As an HIV/Aids peer educator, Thabelo visits close to 36 taverns in Tembisa educating people about HIV/Aids awareness and prevention.
Interacting with people requires confidence, which is a characteristic he has built through the years.
“Parents play a huge role in helping one gain confidence.
“Tell your children what to expect from the outside world.
“Explain to them why they look different and go through the journey with them on how to accept and take care of themselves,” Thabelo advised parents raising children with albinism.
Albinism is an inherited genetic condition in which the body does not produce enough melanin, the chemical that is responsible for eye, skin and hair colour.
ALSO READ:
Be safe in the water this swimming season
Disrespect shown to the dead as tombstones are vandalised
Because of the lack of pigmentation, the affected person has very pale skin, hair and eyes.
While parents play a huge role in boosting one’s self-confidence, organisations such as Bob90 and the Bino’s from Ekurhuleni offers support to people with albinism by boosting their confidence and unleashing their talents through the performing arts.
Bob90 and the Bino’s use edutainment in the form of a choir and theatrical performances to highlight the increasing scourge of attacks, and the enormous threats and difficulties faced by people living with albinism in South Africa.
Those wishing to learn more about the condition, to offer support or to be a part of the support group, may contact Bob90 on 073 712 7232 or email him at bobthebino@gmail.com.
Have a story?
Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.zaor Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za or Kgotsofalang Mashilo (journalist) kgotsofalangm@caxton.co.za
Remember to visit the Germiston City News on the following social media platforms:
Or add the GCN on WhatsApp 079 406 1181 or BBM (BBM Pin: 7F102137) today, to get all the latest news.
Catch-up on more local news with our sister newspapers Bedfordview Edenvale News, Alberton Record and Kempton Express.
