Celebrate International Disability Day
WESTDENE – Kgothatso Montjane and Evans Maripa celebrate World Disability Day with South Africa's masterchef Reuben Riffel on 3 December.
Disability Awareness Month came full circle on 3 December.
Wheelchair tennis players, Evans Maripa and Kgothatso Montjane met up with one of South Africa’s masterchefs Reuben Riffel to promote the rights of people living with disabilities.
Montjane, who is ranked Number 9 internationally and who has just returned from the NEC Wheelchair Tennis Masters said, the day was very important for the minority group.
“It was an honour to be with the masterchef, you never hope and believe that people like him would be interested in being with us, we really appreciate his presence,” said Montjane.
“People need to be reminded that these minorities are fighting every day to be the best. The day was dedicated on educating the society about disabled people,” she said.
Montjane also said being disabled should not define an individual.
When you are disabled you should’t feel sorry for yourself, always know that you can do amazing things, she said.
Chef Riffel was also honoured to be among wheelchair tennis players.
“Stick to your own style, be true to yourself… it was a great pleasure to meet KG and Evans and I would like to congratulate them on their achievements and wish them all the best for the future.” said Riffel.
The aim of International Disability Day is to promote awareness of the rights of people living with disabilities, and encourage continued support for their dignity.
Montjane also advises individuals to stay safe during the season of goodwill.
“Merry Christmas to everyone, take care of yourselves and stay out of trouble.”
