I was invited.
I was given a seat at the table.
I was included.
But was I really seen?
Because being included does not always mean that you belong.
A ramp may help me get through the door, but can I move freely once I am inside?
A sign-language interpreter may help me understand, but am I being listened to?
A workplace may employ me, but am I given the opportunity to contribute, grow, and lead?
A school may admit my child, but are they truly learning, participating, and being valued?
Inclusion is being allowed in.
Belonging is knowing that you matter once you are there.
For too long, society has measured progress by whether people with disabilities are included.
We need to ask a bigger question:
Do they belong?
Because belonging means more than access.
It means dignity.
It means opportunity.
It means being heard.
It means being valued.
It means being able to contribute without constantly having to prove that you deserve your place.
At WezeshaAfrica, we believe that Africa’s People With Disabilities deserve more than just a place at the table.
We want you to know that we are building the table with you in mind. We want you to be one of the artisans helping to build a table of both inclusion and belonging.
We are endeavouring to create an Africa where nobody simply gets included…
…but where everyone can truly belong.
Leaving Nobody Behind.
Otherwise, why are we here?
Food for thought
Think about the last time you were included.
Did you feel like you belonged?
And if the answer is no…
what would have made the difference?
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