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“My disability is not inability!”
Posted by Khanyi Khuzwayo on 08 July 2024, 16:50 SAST
Chewe Shonga with one of his bracelets
Chewe Shonga (22) has grappled with cerebral palsy for most of his life, yet he refuses to let his condition define him. As a learner at the Kabulonga Boys Secondary School in Lusaka, Zambia, he came into contact with FutureLife-Now!, which has allowed him to showcase his extraordinary talents in arts and crafts, particularly in bracelet-making. His journey epitomizes resilience and determination, fuelled by the empowering support he receives from the programme.
An example of Chewe's handiwork
Before Kabulonga High joined the FutureLife-Now! Programme, Chewe faced significant barriers, partly due to a lack of peer support. But through the programme, he discovered a welcoming community that embraced his creativity and provided him with a platform to express himself freely. Through the programme’s promotion of youth-friendly spaces and the personalized support he received from the youth facilitator, Chewe has been empowered to share his art confidently, while also becoming an advocate for disability rights. As such, he strives to break down stereotypes, and he hopes to inspire others in situations similar to his to embrace their unique abilities.
Chewe’s story highlights the transformative power of art, which has been aided in his case by the provision of safe spaces for youth.
And through his creations, he has found not only solace, but also a source of income.
The success of Chewe’s journey underscores the importance of creating inclusive environments in schools and promoting peer support and mentorship. It also emphasizes the significance of technological support for students with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities. It also demonstrates the transformative impact FutureLife-Now! is having in empowering youth to overcome the challenges that confront them, advocate for change and thrive in their communities. This is best articulated in the words of the young man himself: Before the [FutureLife-Now!] programme, many of us [that is, young people] had no one to open up to about the challenges we face, especially those of us living with disabilities. However, through the creation of welcoming and inclusive youth-friendly spaces, and the assistance of the youth facilitator at Kubulonga, I found solace, encouragement and a sense of belonging. The youth facilitator’s commitment to creating a supportive environment enabled me to release my creativity, advocate for others and discover my true potential. Thank you FutureLife-Now!
