mbulelo smpofu
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
MATABELELAND South-based beadwork company, Maginess Designs, has launched a bead training programme targeting persons with disabilities (PWDs) across the province. The initiative aims to equip PWDs with beadwork skills to enhance their productivity, confidence, and economic empowerment.
Maginess Designs’ director, Mrs Maginess Ndlovu, has already conducted introductory beadwork training for groups in Gwanda, Beitbridge, and Umzingwane districts. Plans are underway to extend an intensive beadwork course to these groups, with a long-term goal of expanding the programme to all districts in the province.
Mrs Ndlovu said the inclusion of these groups, aligns with the Government’s call for the empowerment of PWDs.
“It has always been my desire to share my beadwork skills with anyone and everyone, and I saw it prudent to equip PWDs with these skills. Government has also promoted the inclusion of PWDs, and for this to be achieved, we all need to do something,” she said.
The training programme accommodates PWDs of different age groups and disabilities, ensuring an inclusive and adaptable learning pace. Mrs Ndlovu said beadwork not only serves as a potential income source but also has therapeutic benefits, boosting participants’ confidence and self-belief.
“Gone are the days when PWDs were seen as people who need to be assisted with everything or as inferior. Through my training, I want PWDs to first believe in themselves, and from there, others will believe in them,” she said. Participants have expressed gratitude for the programme’s impact. Ms Lungile Ncube, a member of the Umzingwane training group, shared how the training has uncovered her hidden talent and boosted her confidence.
“It’s pleasing to see someone come to us as PWDs and equip us with knowledge and skills. It means they believe in us and see potential in us. These programmes help boost our confidence and empower us economically. I wish to learn more about beadwork so that I can generate income,” she said.
Mr Mthandazo Nyoni, who participated in the Gwanda District training, underlined the importance of such initiatives in empowering PWDs.
“These programmes play a crucial role in developing PWDs. There is a need for them to reach as many beneficiaries as possible. Once I have acquired significant skills in beadwork, I will share them with others to spread the knowledge,” he said.
Mrs Ndlovu aims to groom trainers among PWDs who will, in turn, teach others, ensuring the programme’s sustainability and broader reach.
