Ziyanda Phakathi and Nokuthula Tyangasi are planning to host members of the disabled community at the event. PHOTO: Danica Hansen
DURBAN-based non-profit organisation (NPO), Intuba Yethu, is hosting a fun walk on Saturday, July 31, followed by a talent show at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium. The walk begins at 07:00 and is expected to draw to a close by 10:00, while the talent show is expected to begin at midday.
Intuba Yethu, which means, ‘our opportunity’, was launched in November last year, by a group of local youth who wanted to provide a platform for those with disabilities. They hope to tackle imbalances in the community and ensure those with disabilities are heard and seen for all they are.
In line with this goal, founding member, Ziyanda Phakathi, said the upcoming event aims to promote unity.
“There aren’t many social events that comfortably accommodate people with disabilities. We came up with this initiative to try to involve them and give them a chance to integrate with other people that don’t have disabilities. The event also offers the broader community the chance to learn more about our community,” he said.
The walk also serves as a fundraiser – all proceeds will be donated to local schools for the disabled. There is a R100 entry fee for adults and a R50 entry fee for children under the age of 12.
“We are asking participants to wear a touch of blue or white as those are the Intuba Lethu colours,” added Phakathi.
There is a 7km route starting at uShaka Beach, and a 5km route starting at Suncoast, with participants for both routes crossing the finish line at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium.
“The idea is for people to walk and socialise. It’s open to everyone – we want to encourage people to come together to celebrate and be a part of a community of people with disabilities. We are trying to accommodate everyone – those who don’t want to tackle the longer walk can opt for the 5km,” said Nokuthula Tyangasi, marketing manager for Intuba Yethu.
For those who don’t want to attend the walk, the talent show will kick off at 13:00 at Gate G at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium.
“We have a few performers lined up from our organisation, and we would like to open the stage to singers, dancers and performers who would like to participate and showcase their talent,” said Tyangasi.
Participants are encouraged to share photos from the day with the hashtag, #WeStartTogetherWeFinishTogether. For more information, contact Tyangasi on 067 119 7164.
