A mother’s love takes centre stage

Springs resident, Debbie Oberholster, started the Uniquely Me pageant to help her son Diaan and others like him shine brighter.
The pageant caters for children with disabilities and allows them to showcase their talents.
“I could tell Diaan (12) liked to be on stage and perform but I couldn’t find any programmes that he could participate in,” explained the mother of two.
Oberholster did not give up and eventually found inspiration online.
“I saw these pageants existed overseas,” she added.
Oberholster hosted the first Uniquely Me Pageant in 2018.
“Initially some of the parents were reluctant. They thought we would put their children on stage to be ridiculed by others but that has not happened.
“I don’t think of it as a competition because all the children are winners. We only allow them to express themselves so that they feel comfortable,” she said.

Also read: Uniquely Me, a pageant for children with special needs

She said her son’s condition opened her eyes to many opportunities and injustices in the community.
“When Diaan was born and we got his diagnosis, I knew he was going to change so many people’s lives. Even if it happens through me then so be it, for he is my inspiration to change this world by accepting people with differences. We can make this world a better place,” she said.
Oberholster believes the pageant advocates for people with disabilities in the community.
“We get the chance to raise awareness so that parents will teach their children that children with disabilities also deserve a platform to be children and not to be ostracised.
“We, parents of children with special needs, don’t have the power to make life fair but we do have the power to make life joyful,” she added.
Oberholster is inviting participants from all over the country.

Also read: Be uniquely you and colourful at Cansa Shavathon

The pageant will take place on September 3 at the Springs Civic Centre. Applications close on August 19.
There will also be an auction to raise funds for wheelchairs and other aids.
“We encourage the community to volunteer their time to make the event a success. People who need wheelchairs and other aids can contact us even if they’re not participating in the pageant,” she said.
Oberholster has appealed to potential donors to contribute to the event.
Her ultimate dream is to create a programme for children with disabilities after they finish school.
“So many of them stay home without jobs but I know they can be contributing members of our communities if we give them a chance,” she said.

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