South Africa: Disability Did Not Stop Me

Story 

“Anyone can become anything they want”, these words from Azwitamisi Mulaudzi, a 45-year-old widow and mother of five from Vondwe in Limpopo, capture the spirit of resilience and determination. Despite living with a physical disability and never having attended school, Azwitamisi has defied the odds to create a safe haven for the most vulnerable in her community, the elderly and people with disabilities. 

A Dream Born from Struggle 

Life was never easy for Azwitamisi. Without formal education, finding work was nearly impossible. “I didn’t go to school, so finding work was very hard for me,” she recalls. One day, she overheard a conversation about starting a crèche and how easy it was to register. Curious and hopeful, she approached the group for guidance. They directed her to Mutale Victim Empowerment Programme (VEP), which helped her register her own organization and included her in skills training sessions through HWSETA. 

That moment marked the beginning of a journey that would change not only her life but the lives of many others.

Building a Centre for Care 

Azwitamisi chose to start an Old Age and Disability Centre, a place where older people and those living with disabilities could receive care and dignity. “They are the most vulnerable people, and especially we, the disabled,” she explains. Her vision was clear: create a space where no one feels forgotten. 

But the road was not easy. “When I started, people laughed at me saying, ‘What can a handicap do? Who does she think she is?’ Even my family discouraged me,” she says. Yet, Azwitamisi refused to give up. She knew the pain of being disabled and not knowing where the next meal would come from. That pain became her fuel. 

Eight Years of Impact 

Today, eight years later, her perseverance paid off. The organization has its own premises, funded by the National Lottery Commission, complete with a large yard that serves as a soccer and netball field for older people to exercise and stay active. Azwitamisi has hired five permanent staff members to cook and care for the elderly and disabled. Her Centre is not just a place of care it is a hub of hope and activity. 

Looking ahead, Azwitamisi plans to apply for more funding to buy sewing machines, fabrics, and beads so that those who visit the Centre can learn skills and create products. “I want them to do something meaningful when they are at the centre,” she says. 

Changing Perceptions, Changing Lives 

Azwitamisi’s story is a powerful reminder that disability does not define destiny. Her courage has silenced critics and inspired her community. She has turned doubt into determination and isolation into inclusion. “I am a proud disabled woman making a difference in my community and the surrounding area,” she says with confidence. 

Why This Story Matters 

This narrative highlights the intersection of disability, gender equality, and economic empowerment. It shows how grassroots initiatives can transform lives and challenge stereotypes. Azwitamisi is not just managing a Centre she is driving change, creating opportunities, and proving that resilience can overcome barriers. 

Themes Highlighted 

• Disability & Care Work: Advocating for vulnerable groups.
• Gender Equality & Drivers of Change: Empowering women as leaders.
• Employment & Poverty Reduction: Creating jobs and skills opportunities. 

Closing Thought 

Azwitamisi’s journey teaches us that strength is not the absence of struggle but the ability to rise above it. Her story is a beacon of hope for anyone who has ever been told, “You can’t.” Because, as she says, anyone can become anything they want. 

 By Azwitamisi Mulaudzi, Vondwe Limpopo