On the 25th of June 2025, the district of Gwanda in Matabeleland South came alive with colour, creativity and celebration. In an extraordinary exhibition organised by Maggie’s Unique Designs, talented creatives with disabilities from across the province showcased their remarkable beadwork creations. The event was held under the uplifting theme: “Creativity Knows No Limits: Unveiling Talent, Building Dreams.”
This exhibition was more than just a display of art, it was a powerful reminder of the talent and determination that exist within the community of persons with disabilities. Artists from Gwanda, Beitbridge, and Umzingwane proudly presented their works to members of the public, proving beyond doubt that disability is not inability. Each piece told a story of resilience, vision, cultural identity and craftsmanship.
This was a moment to honour their creativity, celebrate their progress and promote their work to the world.
The exhibition was officially opened by the Town Clerk of the Municipality of Gwanda, Ms. P. Nkala, who praised the artists for their dedication, talent and courage. In her heartfelt speech, she expressed deep pride in what the creatives had achieved and encouraged the public to go beyond admiring the art, to buy and invest in it. “What is being exhibited today,” she said, “is pure talent, hard work, and passion. These creatives have defied all odds and serve as a true inspiration. This event is not just a show, it is a powerful statement, a historic moment for our province.”
Ms. Nkala called on everyone to support local talent and promote sustainable livelihoods by purchasing artworks. “By buying these beautiful pieces,” she continued, “we build a stronger, more inclusive and kinder community where we uplift each other. These artists deserve to earn a living from their work.”
Behind the success of the exhibition is Maginess Ndlovu, founder of Maggie’s Unique Designs. In her moving speech, Mrs. Ndlovu expressed her deep commitment to empowering creatives with disabilities and spoke of the intensive training her organisation provided to the 21 artists whose work was on display. Through months of workshops, mentorship and technical skill-building, these artists were equipped to take their craft to the next level.
Mrs. Ndlovu described the beadwork on display as more than just decorative art, it is a celebration of Zimbabwean identity. “Each piece is a visual splendour,” she said. “The intricate craftsmanship reflects not only talent but also cultural history and creative expression. These works are vibrant narratives of colour, pattern and form. They speak volumes about who we are as Zimbabweans.”
She also stressed the role of beadwork in preserving cultural heritage and creating economic opportunity. “Beadwork is a medium of storytelling. It is both personal and communal. It holds memory, tradition and future all in one. When we support it, we are not just buying art, we are preserving our identity and directly contributing to the socio-economic development of our nation.”
Mrs. Ndlovu expressed her profound appreciation to Culture Fund of Zimbabwe Trust and the European Union Delegation to Zimbabwe for their vital support. Their contribution, through the CreativeACTIONs 2 program, made the exhibition possible and demonstrated a strong commitment to nurturing Zimbabwe’s arts and culture sector. Special recognition was also given to Nkomwa Foundation Trust, an organisation dedicated to supporting persons with disabilities, whose ongoing involvement has been essential to the journey.
Now that the artworks have been exhibited, the focus shifts to marketing, promotion and financial sustainability. The artists have expressed deep gratitude to Maggie’s Unique Designs for unlocking their potential and giving them a platform. But they also emphasized the need for broader and ongoing support from both local and international communities.
The creatives are eager to see their work go beyond exhibitions and become a reliable source of income. This requires investment in strong marketing strategies, brand development and digital platforms that can expand their reach. It also means building networks, opening opportunities for commissions and finding markets where their creations can be appreciated and sold.
This is not just a passion, it is a livelihood and one that can grow into a thriving creative industry that includes everyone. The call is simple: Let’s buy their work, share their stories, and help make their art visible to the world.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Percy Vela, the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe’s Provincial Manager, praised the exhibition as “a breathtaking showcase of talent and the unwavering spirit of our disabled artists.” He went on to declare that this was not just the end of an event, but the beginning of a new era of inclusion and support in the arts sector.
Mr. Vela announced an exciting new initiative from the National Arts Council: “Art Without Limits”, a grant program specifically tailored to support creative persons with disabilities. This program will offer financial support, access to markets, exhibition opportunitie and resources to help artists grow.
In addition, the council will launch a mentorship network, connecting emerging creatives with disabilities to established artists and industry professionals. “Inclusion is not just a word,” Mr. Vela stated, “it is a living practice. Every artist, regardless of their circumstances, deserves the opportunity to shine. At the National Arts Council, we are not just facilitators of art, we are facilitators of dreams.”
The event was also attended by Mr. Promise Dube, Acting Deputy Director in the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture, who has been instrumental throughout the journey in supporting creatives. Pastor Amos Nkomo of the Zion Christian Church also gave his blessings to the artists and encouraged continued community involvement.
Members of the public came from all across Matabeleland South and beyond to witness and celebrate this incredible moment. The energy, support and appreciation shared by all who attended reflected the power of unity and the importance of inclusion.
The exhibition in Gwanda was a powerful beginning, but it must not be the end. It is now our shared responsibility to ensure that the talents of creatives with disabilities are recognised, valued, and rewarded. Let’s keep buying their work, sharing their stories and creating spaces where they can grow, thrive and earn a living from their art.
To Maggie’s Unique Designs, Culture Fund of Zimbabwe Trust, European Union Delegation, Nkomwa Foundation Trust and every individual who played a role, thank you for believing in inclusion, in empowerment and in the power of art. Together we can continue to prove that indeed, creativity knows no limits.
