‘CHANGING the narrative begins with us, it's not about being accommodated, it is about knowing who you are and showing up as the best version of yourself in that space."
These were the words of Gaddaffi the poet ahead of International Albinism Day on Tuesday, 13 June.
International Albinism Day is meant to shed light on the congenital disorder, albinism associated with lack of color pigmentation in the skin, hair and eyes.
Speaking to Daily Sun, Boitumelo Tevin Mainganya who is well known as Gaddaffi the poet said for years he has had people tease him and sometimes would be reminded just how much his own existence can be dangerous as they are not safe.
“People will always speak, some will tease. I am not ignorant, I know what people who live with albinism go through, being called ‘inkau’.
“Sometimes our lives are in danger. You never know what’s going to happen. We can get kidnapped or killed for spiritual purposes.
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"But for me right now those things do not bother me. Not to say I am ignorant of what we go through but for I have reached a point of enlightenment where I know myself and I know what I bring to the world, therefore what other people say doesn't bother me," he said.
The step to enlightenment has brought Gaddafi out of people's critiques and into real issues like fighting for financial freedom and being in a work environment that serves him.
According to Founder of the Albinism Society of South Africa and Commissioner for Gender Equality, Nomasonto Mazibuko, those living with albinism battle for equal opportunities.
"We acknowledge that we have limitations and therefore are striving to be included. The theme for this year's celebrations is "Inclusion is strength..."
"We have strained every nerve to ensure that we fight for the right to eye care and the right to skin care in the health sector. We continue to fight for the right to equal education, for our children to be included in the mainstream educational system and their limitations considered," she said.
Mazibuko said many have been through the school years and endured the challenges there and others have seen their years through the Higher Education system and qualified.
"An opportunity in the workplace should become less of a battle but discrimination prevails,' she said.
