Addressing the digital divide and its implications on access to technology for the creative living with disability is an area with so much potential for success stories, yet the reality is that not much ground has been covered in terms of exploring this opportunity for growth in our arts sector.
It is worth noting that the creative streak is not necessarily limited to able bodied people only, supporting steps to inclusivity when it comes to technology and the People Living with Disability (PLWD) community is still very limited. Most of the stories and profiles on disabled artists highlight their need for access to technology so that they can produce competitive art in the market. History has shown that individuals who live with disability are able to view the world from a unique perspective, and when they share this perspective, it is not only beautiful in its newness to the rest of society, it presents a moment of awe when there is the realisation that one should never really judge a book by its cover.
International news highlights artistic gurus such as Stevie Wonder who have broken the disability barrier showcased their talent on an international platform, in spite of their disability. In local reference, Paul ‘Dr. Love’ Matavire still hits the right notes and gives an infinitely entertaining vibe to anyone who listens to his music in the moment and journey with the talented musician in their story telling lyrics. However, one should also take note that creativity is not only in music, it has the potential to be expressed in many more artistic forms, if the opportunity to do so is presented.
Creative genius for disabled people in Zimbabwe also lies in textile and graphic designers, creative writing, poetry, culinary art and fashion. There is an opportunity to do more in empowering the disabled within our community, and one way that can be done is by supporting creative talent through providing support in terms of exposure to resources, networking with potential patrons who can then champion the cause offering effective back-up through purchasing their creative products.
With current global trends progressively becoming housed online, one way of supporting the disabled creative is by bridging the digital divide as a way of encouraging these creative to take their artistry to the world. There are ways to mitigate the effect of the digital divide on local disabled creative and this can be achieved by a collective effort and dedicated drive in supporting talent.
- Identifying disabled people who have expressed an interest in creative art, (written, song, poetry, sculpturing, painting, textile design, graphic design, storytelling)
- Allocation of resources through the Ministry of Culture and Sports, in collaboration with the Special Office that represents the disabled community to research on how best the creative industry can include and make room for talented disabled people.
- Identifying sustainable training opportunities in communities, specifically focusing on talent scouting and development.
- Measuring impact and giving recommendations for best practice for these initiatives
- Partnering with academic institutions and other affiliate organisations whose vision also empowers disabled creatives in the industry
- Inclusion of excellence awards in national prestigious ceremonies to give disabled creatives a reason to believe in their art.
- Legal resources which are accessible to disabled creatives for their protection and to champion their cause.
- Call on tech savvy individuals in Zimbabwe to produce apps and supporting plug-ins that may be used by disabled creative in amplifying their trade. Having these topics cross shared to mainstream media can grow audience and present a good opportunity to partner with likeminded individuals in presenting an opportunity for disabled creative in Zimbabwe.
Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step and of course, umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu.
