A hardworking disabled woman was highly praised for her brave ambassadorial role on behalf of the disabled community by the Speaker of the Limpopo Legislature, Dr Tshenuwani Farisani, and the Mayor of Thulamela Municipality, Khosi Thivhulawi Makumbane.

Avhahumi Masindi (37) of Sokuotenda Village, outside Sibasa, has put her disability aside to achieve what she has set out in life.

"She is a true example of self-reliance and she did not allow her disability to stand in her way to success. I am very proud of her because she is leading the way, while showing other disabled community members that it is possible to succeed, despite having a disability," said Farisani.

Makumbane added: "We are proud and lucky to have somebody like Avhahumi in our municipality because she is a symbol of hope to all of us. She did not relegate herself to an inferior position because of her disability, but she worked her way up, to prove that disability is not a stumbling block to success. She is an angel whose contribution to community development needs to be seen. I wish all the disabled people could learn from this hardworking and dedicated toast of our municipality."

Avhahumi was born crippled, as both her lower limbs are non-functional. She has been confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life. But amazingly, she is running one of the fast emerging catering companies in Limpopo. She has also provided two formerly unemployed community members with permanent job opportunities.

"I cannot just sit and wait for the disability grant without doing anything to improve my life. The disability grant is not enough to cater for all my personal needs and I realized that I had to do something to supplement my income. Most of the community members look down upon disabled people because they think we are useless. It is only our bodies that are deformed, but our minds are razor sharp."

Avhuhumi established Mvudi Valley Trading cc in May last year. "I always wanted to be my own boss, despite the fact that I am disabled. Our new government has provided us with equal opportunities and it is our responsibilities to work hard for the development of our own societies …"

Mvudi Valley Trading cc specializes in catering and supplying different material to the public and private sectors. "We barely go for a week without winning any bid. I make sure that I deliver quality services to my clients so that they give me another chance to work for them in future."

Avhahumi encourages other disabled members of the community to put their disability aside and work hard for community development. "The time for sleeping is over and we need to be strong enough to realize our dreams. Disability has never been an excuse for lack of self-development."

She says the secret behind her success is proper customer care, effective time management and good communication skills. "You have to be very social to succeed in the business industry. You must be ready to listen to your clients and accept positive criticism to build up your business."