I Can! Inspires and empowers
The nation celebrated International Day of Persons with Disabilities, on Wednesday, 3 December to facilitate acceptance. But, a local organisation that empowers disabled individuals, said a lot more needs to be accomplished in support of the minority group.
“YOU can do anything you set your mind to.” How often had our parents used this clichéd saying to motivate us at our darkest hours?
On Wednesday, 3 December thousands of people with disabilities were recognised when the nation celebrated International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The aim of the campaign is to promote an understanding of disabilities, to facilitate the integration and acceptance of people with disabilities into society, and to ensure the dignity, rights and well being of persons with disabilities.
One organisation that has dedicated itself to the upliftment of people living with disabilities (particularly young adults) is the I Can! Academy.
The organisation was launched right here in Durban North, when founder Alison Smeeton, noticed that there was a need for an institution that could provide training and development for disabled individuals after they had turned 18.
Smeeton, who’s own son was born with a disability, then decided to create an organisation that would teach sustainable life skills to people with disabilities, so that they could be employed and serve their own purpose.
“It is incredibly rewarding for these youngsters. Many of them come from hard lives where their disability has facilitated their poverty, while others come from sheltered and overprotected homes. Our facilitators must really push these students, because initially they don’t believe in themselves.
Within a few weeks they bloom and their transformation amazes both the students themselves and their families. Once they completed their degree they can contribute to the family, earn a living and serve a purpose,” said Claudia Leite, academy supervisor.
According to Natascha McAllister, operations manager, the country has made slow progress in terms of disability awareness.
“I believe we still have a long way to go. Yes, people are a lot more accepting, and integration has started to take off, but many organisations haven’t made the necessary arrangements to cater for people with disabilities,” she said.
What’s more, McAllister explained, is that the current employment equity act only requires that two per cent of the work force needs to be people with disabilities.
