A life with disability is still life with abilities.
A life with disability is still life with abilities.
Born from a humble family in the Eastern Province of Sierra Leone, I grew up knowing myself in a disabling condition. As a child, my family (especially my mother) struggled with all the challenges and odds of having a disable child in our society.
As I graciously develop into adulthood, the knowledge of not been able to do some of the normal things that my peers can do, couple with the effect of societal influences and stigma continue to affect my physiological and psychological wellbeing.
However, I am blessed with a wife and children, one of which is diagnosed with severe Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Over these years, despite the unspeakable difficulties and challenges we continue to face as a family of persons with disabilities; yet we consider ourselves blessed by the people, communities, nations, organizations and Institutions that are relentlessly supporting us. There support is changing lives and to God be the glory.
Upon this background, I have come to realise that, my cherished professional career and nothing else makes more sense than giving back to society in similar kind. The slogan ‘’A life with disability is still life with abilities’’ makes meaning when we all come together in support of one and other. As a result, LIFEWAYS SIERRA LEONE is established.
This organisation is born out of real life experience of living with disability and consequently dealing with untold challenges, people’s negative perception, stigma and trying to find a place in our society. The impact of some of these negative influences on a disabled person’s emotional and physical well being may affect his/her chance of self-independence, self-confidence, dignity and social inclusion, hence potentially resulting in perpetual poverty and unprecedented difficulties for Persons in disabling circumstance.
Research suggests that Persons with disabilities, on average as a people, are more likely to experience adverse socioeconomic outcomes than persons without disabilities. One billion people or 15% of the world’s population experience some form of disability (WHO 2020).
Disability doesn’t have to be a social barrier. We stand for disability rights and freedom like fairness, inclusive access to education and employment, safety, community acceptance, independent living, active participation in society etc.
On behalf of Lifeways Sierra Leone, I humbly solicit your unflinching support to make at least one vulnerable life with disability to fulfill his/her inborn abilities.
God bless.
Peter Kendema .
Country Director
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