In a bid to promote inclusive education and empower individuals with disabilities, Melanie Taddeo-Nxumalo from Canada recently visited Olympia Park School in Springs, Belvedere School in Benoni, and Phelang School for Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) in Kwa-Thema to learn first-hand about skills development programmes in South Africa.
Melanie, who plans to open an inclusive skills development school in the country, was also a guest speaker at a recent Rotary Club of Aurora meeting at Lago Puccini Café and Lounge in Boksburg.
As a special education teacher, author and advocate for inclusion, Melanie envisions a world where everyone, regardless of disability, background, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation or ability, has equal opportunities.
“My visit to South Africa has been fulfilling because I met many incredible people who shared their stories. They are still regarded as ‘that disabled person’ despite the great work they are doing,” she said.
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Her visit to Belvedere was insightful, as she learnt after matric some learners may not have the opportunity to practice their skills because of a lack of opportunities.
“I also found out that some learners do not make it to Grade 12, however, they have exit programmes, which I found very exciting.”
Melanie, whose husband is from Swaziland, was battling to find a job because of her disability and became frustrated. Eleven years ago, she established the NPO Connect 4 Life.
“The aim was to empower people with disabilities to reach their dreams and goals through education, training and skills development and to empower people with diverse needs, ensuring they have the tools and support to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
“The programme gets tailored to each individual’s needs. For example, if they want to learn to cook, live independently, use a computer or get a job, we help them do that.”
Her husband encouraged her to take her work to South Africa because of the huge need.
“I then connected with 25 people in South Africa, including the departments of education and social development, as well as various organisations working with people with disabilities. In 2023, I came to SA for the first time, visiting several special schools to understand education for people with special needs.
“I empowered learners from a school in George, in the Western Cape, by teaching them public speaking and how to use their voices to advocate for themselves.”
Her return visit last year further opened her eyes to the high unemployment rate and the fact that some families still hide their children with disabilities and deny them the same opportunities as other children.
Through her research, Melanie identified a gap in skills development and drew up a proposal for a centre that would equip individuals in areas such as entrepreneurship, agriculture, broadcasting, hospitality, business administration, and more.
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“I then met with the Minister of Social Development and shared my vision. She encouraged me to start an NPO. I have since put together a board of directors from South Africa, identified land in different areas, and started searching for international funding opportunities.
“My vision is to see people with disabilities open businesses. As individuals with special needs, we face so many barriers in employment; we constantly have to prove we are reliable.”
She added the skills development centre will also focus on advocacy, educating employers, government, and communities to see people’s abilities, not their disabilities.
About MelanieMelanie suffered a stroke at 21 while in her fourth year of university studying visual arts. The stroke left her legally blind and completely paralysed on her left side.
After years of therapy, she regained her independence and became the first legally blind teacher to graduate from Ontario.She is also the author of two books: My Unforeseen Journey: Losing Sight, Gaining Vision and the Whole World Stopped.
For more info: melanie@connect4lifesouthafrica.org or visit their website/ www.connect4lifesouthafrica.org
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