It was a dream come true when a disabled woman was presented with a cheque R1 000 to start a sewing business. Fulufhedzani Nekhubvi, who was involved in a fire accident when she was young, received the money from the Disabled Development Advisors (DDA), an organization aimed at empowering and assisting the disabled to start their own businesses. The cheque presentation took place at Khubvi village, north of Thohoyandou, on Saturday. The mastermind behind DDA, Humbulani Nengovhela, who has non-functioning lower limbs, said he decided to start the initiative after realizing that most disabled people resort to begging, instead of creating their own jobs. “It is heartbreaking to see disabled people begging at the corners of the streets while they might be able to do something on their own to generate funds. They can also supplement their disability grants by using their skills because there is no longer time for sleeping in this modern era. All people are integrated into one planet and those who work hard will succeed, regardless of physical appearance. I have realized that the disabled are zealous members of our community who can also help in the economic development of our nation. They only need support and guidance …” Nengovhela said Fulufhedzani submitted her well-prepared business plan to DDA. “There was no reason to deny her funds because she met all our requirements for funds allocation. There is also a potential for growth in her small business as she proved to be hard working, dedicated and disciplined. Not only the disabled can benefit from the DDA, but all community members, regardless of physical appearance, can get financial assistance, as long as they meet the specified requirements.” Obviously on cloud nine, Fulufhedzani said she would use the money to buy stock so that she may start with her business immediately. “I thank DDA because my dream of owning my own small business has unfolded. I will work hard to prove that DDA did not waste their money. Thank you, DDA, a thousand times. I call upon other disabled members of the community to wake up and wage war against unemployment and poverty through their skills …” The DDA can be accessed at 082 844 4583.