Poet calls for inclusion of people with hearing disabilities

Mangaliso Kabulika

POET Ntombezinhle Thembelenkosini wants to see the inclusion of people with hearing disabilities in the arts industry.

This follows her release of a poetry piece dubbed ‘Ungazwisisi kungani na?’

Ntombezinhle, who has partial hearing disabilities, said the poem was inspired by how society treats her.

She plans to open an organisation that caters for those with hearing disabilities.

“When I first embarked on this poetic journey, I hoped to engage with other deaf people but I haven’t met any.

“I had to come up with a piece that address the struggles I’m facing as a deaf poet.

“I want to open an organisation, particularly for the deaf, where they can be celebrated regardless of how they are.

“The industry lacks support, especially for poetry writers, as most stakeholders find it not lucrative enough.

“However, over the years there has been an improvement in the appreciation of poetry by various individuals and this should be a clarion call for investors to also hop in,” said Ntombezinhle.