Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, Matabeleland South Bureau
IN a bid to empower People Living with Disabilities (PWDs), beadwork specialist Ms Maginess Ndlovu of Maggie’s Unique Designs has equipped PWDs from three districts in Matabeleland South province with beadwork skills.
The initiative is to ensure that PWDs are economically empowered as well as to promote social inclusion.
Over 20 PWDs participated in a beadwork exhibition organised by Maggie’s Unique Designs, which was held in Gwanda.
Ms Ndlovu has rolled out training for PWDs in Beitbridge, Gwanda and Umzingwane.
In her remarks, Ms Ndlovu said there is still a lot of work to be done to capacitate more PWDs in the province.
“This initiative, Maggie’s Unique Designs, is built on a simple, powerful belief: that creativity knows no limits, and talent thrives in every individual. In a bid to exercise his belief we have ensured that we bring people with disabilities on board so that we nurture their talent through training.
“The purpose of this exhibition today is to provide a vibrant platform for our exceptionally gifted disabled artists from Beitbridge, Gwanda and Umzingwane to showcase their incredible handcrafted creations — from stunning beaded intricate jewellery to beautiful artistic pieces,” she said.
“This exhibition isn’t just about selling art, it’s about fostering economic independence, celebrating the boundless abilities within our disabled community and inspiring us all.
“While we have managed to conduct some training sessions, there still remains a huge gap. We have seven districts in the province and we have a high population of PWDs.
“There is still a lot of work that needs to be done and this requires an all-stakeholder approach,” she added.
Ms Ndlovu said PWDs have shown great interest in the empowerment programme. She said their training is tailor-made to accommodate people with different forms of disability.
National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) Matabeleland South co-ordinator, Mr Percy Vela, said such initiatives are crucial in the development of the arts.
He said for the arts industry to grow, there is a need to identify and nurture talent from grassroots level, leaving no one and no place behind. Mr Vela commended the exhibitors for displaying great artistic skills.
“We’ve witnessed the breathtaking talent and unwavering spirit of disabled artists from across our districts. Their art, especially the intricate beadwork designs, isn’t just beautiful but a powerful narrative of resilience, creativity and profound dedication.
“Today, we are solidifying a commitment. A commitment to inclusion that isn’t just a word, but a living practice. We’re talking about tangible, sustained support for disabled artists — ensuring they have the platforms, resources, and recognition they so richly deserve,” he said.
Mr Vela revealed that the NACZ will be launching a dedicated “Art Without Limits” grant programme specifically tailored to support disabled artists in developing their craft, accessing markets and securing exhibition opportunities both nationally and internationally.
“We will also be establishing a mentorship network, connecting emerging disabled artists with established figures in the arts community,” he said.
Gwanda Municipality town clerk, Ms Priscillah Nkala, said empowerment of PWDs is crucial to the development of the economy. She said supporting local artists is crucial in developing the town. She said the municipality is committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to the local economy. -@DubeMatutu
