From January 2018 to December 2020 I presented a monthly slot on Power FM mainstreaming issues affecting people with disabilities by interviewing the successful ones to share with us their journeys on how they overcame their challenges to make it. Something stood out in my interview with Babsy Mlangeni (https://omny.fm/shows/power-perspective/living-with-eyesight-disability) as he related his first encounter with a record executive. “I told him I wanted to record my music,” the now music legend recalled. “He was shocked and said to me: ‘You’re blind!’”. The legend fought back timeously: “Yes, I’m blind, I don’t sing with my eyes by blinking, I sing with my mouth.” The music executive refused to budge, and he turned Babsy down. Although the executive lived to regret his prejudice as Babsy grew to become the superstar he became, this kind of attitude has to be tackled as it existed in the 1960s as the artist experienced then, and we continue experiencing it even today as cultural workers with disabilities.
South Africa is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, spanning multiple languages, traditions, and artistic expressions. For many years, however, people with disabilities have faced significant barriers to participation and recognition in the arts and culture sector. Whether due to physical, sensory, or intellectual disabilities, many talented and creative individuals have struggled to access the resources, training, and opportunities needed to pursue their artistic passions.
Despite these challenges, there have been many inspiring examples of people with disabilities making significant contributions to the arts and culture sector in South Africa. From musicians and dancers to actors and visual artists, these individuals have defied stereotypes and shattered expectations, demonstrating the power of creativity and determination in overcoming adversity.
One such example is Themba Mbuli, a visually impaired musician who has become a renowned performer and composer in South Africa. Despite losing his sight at a young age, Mbuli was determined to pursue a career in music, and through hard work and talent, he has become a respected figure in the industry. He has performed at prestigious events such as the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival and has collaborated with many of South Africa’s top musicians and producers.
Another example is Faye Gatley, a deaf dancer and choreographer who has become a leading figure in the world of contemporary dance in South Africa. Gatley was born deaf but discovered a love for dance at a young age and has since gone on to create ground-breaking works that explore themes of identity, communication, and inclusion. She has won numerous awards for her work and has been featured in international festivals and showcases.
These are just two examples of the many talented and inspiring people with disabilities who are making their mark in the arts and culture sector in South Africa. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to opportunities, training, and recognition in the industry. Initiatives such as the proposed annual awards to recognise people with disabilities in the arts and culture sector can play an important role in raising awareness and promoting inclusion and diversity in the sector. By celebrating the achievements of people with disabilities, we can inspire others to follow in their footsteps, and create a more vibrant, inclusive, and innovative arts and culture sector in South Africa.
There are several reasons why people with disabilities may not be celebrated in the arts and culture sector in South Africa. One reason is that people with disabilities may face significant barriers to accessing the resources and opportunities needed to pursue their artistic passions. For example, they may not have access to suitable training or performance spaces or may face discrimination and stigma when seeking employment or recognition in the industry.
Another reason is that there may be a lack of awareness and understanding of the talents and potential of people with disabilities in the industry. Stereotypes and misconceptions about disabilities may lead to assumptions that people with disabilities are not capable of producing high-quality art or performing at a professional level.
Furthermore, there may be systemic and structural barriers within the industry itself that limit the representation and recognition of people with disabilities. For example, the criteria for judging or awarding prizes may not take into account the unique challenges and experiences of people with disabilities or may prioritise mainstream or commercial forms of art over more niche or experimental forms.
Overall, there is a need for greater awareness, advocacy, and collaboration to promote the inclusion and celebration of people with disabilities in the arts and culture sector in South Africa. By recognising and supporting the talents and potential of all individuals, regardless of their abilities, we can create a more vibrant, diverse, and equitable industry that benefits everyone.
So during this annual Disability Rights Awareness Month (from 3 November to 3 December), we at Brandhill Africa™ are introducing our new initiative, the South African Inclusivity and Diversity Arts & Culture Awards (SAIDACA) which is intended to shine a spotlight on the remarkable cultural workers with disabilities who often go unnoticed in mainstream culture. Although our objective for 2024 is to launch this as a fully-fledged award ceremony, this year it’s through a social media poster campaign. We hope to amplify their voices and creativity, challenging misperceptions and fostering a more inclusive society. These cultural works inspire us all by overcoming obstacles and using their unique perspectives to create powerful cultural outputs and knowledge.
Our vision with this project is of a world where people with disabilities are equally represented and celebrated in the arts and culture sector. And we’ll pursue this vision with a mission to recognise, celebrate and encourage the artistic and cultural contributions of people with disabilities in South Africa.
Our strategic objectives are as follows:
- To provide a platform for people with disabilities to showcase their artistic and cultural talents and achievements.
- To raise awareness about the important role that people with disabilities play in the arts and culture sector.
- To encourage and inspire people with disabilities to pursue careers in the arts and culture sector.
- To foster a more inclusive society where people with disabilities are recognised and appreciated for their contributions to the arts and culture sector.
We hope various stakeholders will come onboard to support this initiative as this project will promote inclusivity by providing recognition to individuals with disabilities who have made significant contributions to the industry. This will help break down barriers and stigmas that often prevent people with disabilities from participating fully in society. Secondly, the achievements of people with disabilities in the arts and culture sector can boost their confidence and self-esteem. This, in turn, can encourage others with disabilities to pursue their dreams and aspirations, knowing that they too can achieve success in their chosen field. Thirdly, by highlighting the work of people with disabilities in the arts and culture sector, the awards can help foster creativity and innovation. This can lead to new and exciting art forms, music, and other cultural expressions that can enrich South African society as a whole. Fourthly, supporting the arts and culture sector can have economic benefits, as it can create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Supporting this project can help promote the industry and create more opportunities for people with disabilities to participate. Last but not least, this project will promote social cohesion and national unity. This is particularly important in a country with a history of racial and social divisions. It will help bring people from different backgrounds together and promote a sense of shared identity.
Hosting an annual awards ceremony to recognise people with disabilities in the arts and culture sector in South Africa is an important initiative that can have a significant positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities and the arts and culture sector as a whole. This can help promote the work of artists with disabilities, build their confidence and self-esteem, and encourage others with disabilities to pursue careers in the arts and culture sector.
By recognising and celebrating the achievements of people with disabilities, we can create a more inclusive and diverse society, and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
We believe Brandhill Africa™ is best qualified to host the South African Inclusivity and Diversity Arts and Culture Awards it is led by a remarkable individual who not only has a disability but also possesses a wealth of experience and expertise in the arts and culture industry. These credentials, combined with the company’s commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility, make it an ideal candidate.
First and foremost, the fact that I, with an impaired mobility, head Brandhill Africa™ means I have the opportunity to bring a unique perspective and understanding to its mission. My personal experience and insights into the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities – coupled with those of the three other executives in the company – contribute to the company qualifying exceptionally to champion the cause and ensure that the project is truly inclusive and representative.
Moreover, Brandhill Africa demonstrates a strong commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing employment opportunities for unemployed university graduates who have disabilities. By hiring these individuals, the company not only promotes inclusivity but also showcases the talents and capabilities of people with disabilities in a sector that often overlooks their contributions. Supporting such an organization sends a powerful message of inclusivity and equality to society at large.
Furthermore, Brandhill Africa™’s involvement in organising charity events as part of its corporate social investment showcases its dedication to making a positive impact beyond the realm of business. By leveraging its expertise in marketing and the arts, the company actively contributes to social causes and uses its platform to raise awareness and support for those in need. Hosting the arts and culture awards for people with disabilities aligns perfectly with their values, as it serves as a celebration of the talents and achievements of individuals who often face significant barriers in their artistic pursuits.
Another crucial aspect of Brandhill Africa™’s credibility is its commitment to sound corporate governance systems. The company’s emphasis on accountability ensures that any support provided will be utilised effectively and transparently. Our robust governance framework guarantees that resources are allocated efficiently, minimising the risk of mismanagement or waste. This level of accountability is essential when considering partnerships or sponsorship, as it provides assurance that funds will be used responsibly for the intended purpose.
We strongly believe supporting this project would be a wise investment for all our partners. The company’s leadership, expertise, and commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility make it an ideal candidate for such support. By aligning with us, stakeholders can contribute to fostering a more inclusive arts and culture sector, empowering individuals with disabilities, and showcasing the immense talents and contributions they bring to society.
For more information on us, please visit our website.
Make that call…
Tujenge Afrika Pamoja! Let’s Build Africa Together.
Saul Molobi (FCIM)
Publisher: Jambo Africa Online
Group Chief Executive Officer and Chairman
Brandhill Africa™
Tel: +27 11 483 1019
Mobile: +27 83 635 7773
eMail: saul.molobi@brandhillafrica.com
Website: www.brandhillafrica.com
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