
The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) is proud to announce the launch of the 2023 Casual Day Fundraising Campaign, taking place on 01 September 2023.
This year’s theme, #ShareASmile with Persons with Disabilities, aims to promote kindness, goodwill, and positivity in support of persons with disabilities in South Africa. The initiative is backed by ambassadors who are drawn from various backgrounds and regions across the country.
Casual Day provides much-needed funds for the work of hundreds of schools and organizations in the disability sector, including nine Provincial Associations of and for Persons with Disabilities (APDs) and five nationwide projects/programs. These projects/programs encompass Workplace and Entrepreneurial Projects/Programs, Universal Design and Access Projects, and Gender-Based Violence
Awareness and Training Programs. The theme for Casual Day 2023 is banking on a phenomenon that has been neglected for too long – one that must have been known to mankind from the beginning of time: the smile.
The NCPD has decided to employ that uplifting, comforting and inspiring facial expression as ally in this year’s campaign under the title SHARE A SMILE. A smile is indicative of the presence of love, kindness, goodwill, caring and many other positive traits in human hearts. The most important characteristic of a smile that the NCPD believe they can utilize, is that it is more infectious than any disease known to man. One smile unmistakeably affects any other human in sight of it, and can cause a smile to appear on that other face instantaneously.
The NCPD is a non-profit organization that works to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, to create an inclusive society where persons with disabilities can fully participate in all spheres of life and enjoy equal rights and freedom. Casual Day is the NCPD's flagship project and contributes to the funding of over 700 disability sector organisations and schools. Casual Day is an annual fundraising campaign that encourages individuals and organisations to purchase Stickers and Merchandise before the first Friday of September, with a donation of R20 earning every donor a Casual Day sticker.
What to Wear
The kindest thing you can wear is your #Share A Smile&; Casual Day Sticker and Merchandise – T-Shirts, Caps, Bucket Hats which are available the ONLINE SHOP HERE or via online order form here if you are a company. Donations received from stickers and supporter items directly benefit disability organisations throughout South Africa, be sure to get yours. Pair your sticker with some bright lipstick, facepaint, retro hairdos and smile inspired activities (how about hosting a comedy show in support of Casual Day at your school or workplace!).
Stickers are available for a donation of R20 from Associations of and for Persons with Disabilities (APDs), Government Departments, Schools, Alpha Pharm, ESKORT, Clicks, JAM Clothing, Jet, Loot Online, The Hub and Toys R Us or visit Casual Day ONLINE SHOP HERE
Tag us in your pictures on our social media channels, or hashtag #ShareASmile #CasualDay to win great Prizes:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CasualDaySA
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CasualDay_SA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casualday_sa
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/casualday-sa
Casual Day Ambassadors
Amina Farouk
Amina Farouk is an inspirational figure in the field of education, a teacher by profession, a mentor by passion, and an educator at heart. Born and raised in Durban, she currently resides in Gauteng. As an only child, Amina shares her home with her beloved cats Milo and Chino, as well as her bird Leo. Despite facing physical disabilities, Amina has embraced life with unwavering determination and a positive outlook. She firmly believes in her motto: “Ability beyond disability.”
At the age of 8, Amina’s life took an unexpected turn when she became a survivor of a motor vehicle accident (MVA) that resulted in the loss of her right leg. Struck by a driver under the influence of alcohol, Amina’s leg had to be amputated from the hip at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg. Despite the challenges and pain she endured, Amina showed remarkable resilience, undergoing intense therapy and rehabilitation to regain a sense of normality in her life. Throughout her journey, she faced bullying and social exclusion, but she emerged stronger and more determined to make a positive impact.
Amina’s educational journey began when she entered the education sector at the age of 18. With a burning desire to transform children’s lives through the power of the classroom, she was committed to breaking the stigma surrounding disabilities and advocating for zero tolerance towards bullying. Her dedication and passion were quickly recognized, and by the age of 21, she was already the head of her department. By 24, she had become a deputy principal, demonstrating her exceptional leadership skills. Currently, she holds a residency at the prestigious Cambridge level, further amplifying her impact in the education sector.
In addition to her teaching career, Amina is the visionary founder of the “Teach with a Passion” mentorship program. This online platform aims to prepare and support student teachers across South Africa, equipping them with the necessary skills, methodologies, and continuous educational support to navigate the challenges they will face in the classroom. Through virtual interactions and guidance, Amina molds future educators, ensuring they are well-prepared for the realities of teaching.
Beyond her professional achievements, Amina enjoys embracing new challenges and exploring the wonders of nature. One of her hobbies includes motivational coloring, utilizing the highlighter technique to bring vibrancy and inspiration to her creations. Amina Farouk’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of perseverance.
As an educational sociologist, mentor, and motivational speaker, she uses her personal experiences to inspire and empower others. Amina’s unwavering commitment to her students, her advocacy against bullying, and her dedication to nurturing the next generation of educators make her a true role model in the field of education.
Connect with Amina on Instagram
Daphney ‘4 Fingers Short’ Twala
Daphney Twala is a remarkable poet and dancer who captivates audiences with her awe-inspiring performances, leaving them inspired and moved. As a valued member of the Casual Day family, she brings her unique talent and perspective to the forefront.
Originally from Limpopo, Daphney was raised by her mother alongside her four siblings. Her childhood was marked by numerous challenges, including facing bullying and discrimination due to her disability. However, she found solace and a means of expression through poetry and writing. These creative outlets became her escape from the prejudice she encountered.
In 2007, she moved to Middelburg to live with her sister, seeking a more accepting community away from the negativity she experienced in Tafelkop.
Unfortunately, even in Middelburg, Daphney encountered a lack of support. Despite the obstacles, her fortunes changed in 2012 when she was offered a position as a technician intern at Julian Raphasha & Associate Civil Consulting engineering firm. Through this opportunity, she had the chance to work on remarkable architectural projects and hone her skills.
Daphney’s career continued to flourish, and she reached another significant milestone when she received sponsorship from Media24 to pursue media studies, ultimately earning a qualification in journalism. She didn’t stop there, as she went on to become a successful co-host at Greater Middelburg FM radio. Her impactful presence extended beyond the radio waves when she served as a keynote speaker at Casual Day events, highlighting her passionate advocacy for equal rights for individuals with disabilities in South Africa and the region.
Currently employed at the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities, Daphney’s unwavering dedication to her work has always been complemented by her love for poetry. She had the opportunity to participate in a diversity concert hosted by the University of South Africa, showcasing her talents and spreading her powerful message. Additionally, she published her first poetry anthology titled “Purposely Designed,” further establishing herself as a versatile and ambitious artist.
Daphney Twala’s future holds great promise as she continues to make strides in her multifaceted endeavors. Her unwavering passion, talent, and commitment to championing equal rights make her an invaluable asset. The Casual Day family is thrilled to have her on board and eagerly anticipates her future accomplishments.
Connect with Daphney on Instagram
Julius Van der Wat
Julius Van der Wat has Spastic Quadriplegia Cerebral Palsy, his limbs are effected and has very limited voluntary movement. Despite this his motto in life is: “I have Cerebral Palsy, Cerebral Palsy does not have me.”
Julius is passionate about advocating for those with severe physical disabilities especially regarding accessibility, for example: access to public buildings and spaces as well as to information.
An avid sportsman, participates in Boccia a sport specifically for people with severe physical disabilities. He is proud to say that he represented Gauteng on national level nine times and has been a national champion in the pairs’ competition for his division three times. Boccia is a co-operative game which relies on everyone participating to work together to achieve great things; support from coaches, family, volunteers, referees and classifiers play a vital role. This game teaches us that together we can accomplish much more. Boccia is a recognised Paralympic sport.
In addition to his participation in sport he is also an Abstract artist and using a digital tablet as his medium.
Julius is also an assistant teacher at Helpmekaar College in Johannesburg. He is Co Director at a NPC – Abilities without Limits. They strive to educate the public about the Abilities and capabilities of Persons with Disabilities, especially those with Cerebral Palsy and wheelchair accessibility challenges. He is featured in primary school textbooks to help further educate the mainstream about Persons with Disabilities.
He was appointed as an ambassador for the Casual Day and Nappy Run campaigns owned and administrated by the National Council of Persons with Disabilities. Julius Van der Wat has Spastic Quadriplegia Cerebral Palsy, his limbs are effected and has very limited voluntary movement.
Despite this his motto in life is: “I have Cerebral Palsy, Cerebral Palsy does not have me.” An avid sportsman, participates in Boccia a sport specifically for people with severe physical disabilities. He represented Gauteng on national level nine times and has been a national champion in the pairs’ competition for his division three times. Boccia is a recognised Paralympic sport.
In addition to his participation in sport he is also an abstract artist and using a digital tablet as his medium. Julius is also an assistant teacher and Co Director at a NPC – Abilities without Limits.
Connect with Julius on Instagram
Esther Motlhabane
Esther Motlhabane, a remarkable individual with a zest for life, was born with Albinism and has embraced her uniqueness as a source of strength. At 31 years old, Esther’s personal motto, “I am a student of life, for life” serves as a constant reminder of the boundless opportunities for learning and growth that life presents.
Born in Hammanskraal and raised in Mabopane, Pretoria, Esther’s early years were marked by her shy nature. However, she discovered her passion for public speaking at a young age, realizing her talent for expressing herself and captivating audiences.
From reciting and writing poetry to participating in the school orchestra and talent shows, Esther eagerly seized any opportunity to take the stage and share her voice. Growing up, she faced limited representation of people who resembled her, but her grandmother, a black woman with Albinism, served as a powerful role model. Esther’s mother also played a pivotal role in affirming her beauty and potential, collecting pictures and stories of people with Albinism to remind her daughter of her worth and dreams.
Esther began her education in a township primary school before transitioning to Prinshof School/Skool during her teenage years. She pursued higher education at the University of Johannesburg, where she obtained a Diploma in Public Relations and Communication. Building on her academic foundation, Esther gained practical experience in various fields related to public relations and communication.
In 2022, driven by her thirst for knowledge, she decided to return to school to pursue an Advanced Diploma in Integrated Communication at Tshwane University of Technology. Esther successfully completed her qualification in record time and is set to graduate later in 2023. Alongside her studies, she is currently pursuing an LLB qualification at UNISA, emphasizing her passion for human rights and advocacy.
Esther’s expertise and inspiring story have attracted the attention of numerous organizations seeking her participation in speaking engagements and sharing her insights on advocacy and communication. In 2018, she was invited by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) to speak at their Casual Day Celebration, where she provided personal insights into her experiences growing up with Albinism and the challenges she has faced in society.
She has also appeared in a television promo for Casual Day, centered around the theme of celebrating diversity. In 2022, on International Albinism Day, Esther was invited to share her knowledge and experiences on the YouTube Channel “Totally Inspired” by Sibo Dube. Additionally, she served as the Public Relations Manager for the groundbreaking theatrical musical play “Lifted-Let the Blind Sing,” which showcased the talents of individuals with disabilities at the South African State Theatre as part of the Mzansi Fela Festival lineup.
Esther Motlhabane’s journey is one characterized by resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. Her dedication to human rights, media representation, and public speaking continues to drive her forward. As she pursues her LLB qualification and engages with diverse platforms, Esther remains an influential figure, empowering others with her story and advocating for a more inclusive and understanding society.
Nkosinathi ‘Jazz the Vocalist’ Sikhosane
Nkosinathi Sikhosane, known by his stage name Jazz the Vocalist, is a 27-year-old singer, songwriter, and poet. He is also a passionate humanitarian, he has cerebral palsy, a physical condition, that has fueled his advocacy for persons with disabilities, particularly as Queer African artists.
Jazz the Vocalist is an active member of the State Theatre Youth Choir and serves as an ambassador for Casual Day. Through his artistry, he endeavors to spread love and hope, aiming to convey the message that love transcends all boundaries and manifests in various forms.
Currently, Jazz the Vocalist is focused on his debut EP, titled “Black Unicorn”. This project delves into themes of self-discovery, identity, and love within the intricate fabric of their country. With his music, he aspires to touch hearts and make a positive impact, fostering understanding and acceptance within society.
Connect with Nkosinathi on Instagram
Mphoentle Masilo
Mphoentle Masilo, a vibrant and resilient 16-year-old, has never let her disability define her. Born with Osteoporosis Imperfecta (OI), she has faced challenges head-on and embraced opportunities to inspire and empower others.
For over 8 years, Mphoentle has served as a Casual Day ambassador, a role she cherishes deeply. Through this platform, she has had incredible experiences that have shaped her journey. Notably, she had the privilege of appearing on television, showcasing her talent in the popular show “Takalane Sesami.”
This exposure allowed her to share her story and spread awareness about her disability, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society. In 2020, she had a memorable interview on Impulse Radio, further amplifying her voice and contributing to the conversation on disability inclusion.
Participating in Casual Day has opened doors for Mphoentle to connect with other individuals with disabilities. Meeting older individuals who share her experiences has been a source of motivation and positivity for her. These encounters have not only provided valuable support but have also helped her navigate her own insecurities. Through the shared bond, Mphoentle has found comfort in her own skin and witnessed her self-confidence soar.
Mphoentle’s journey is a testament to her resilience and determination. Despite the challenges posed by her condition, she continues to embrace life with an unwavering spirit. Through her involvement with Casual Day, she has become a beacon of inspiration for others, encouraging them to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams.
As she continues to grow and make a difference, Mphoentle remains an advocate for disability rights and inclusion. Her unwavering positivity and determination serve as an inspiration to those around her, as she strives to create a more inclusive society where every individual is valued and celebrated for who they are.
Connect with Mphoentle on Instagram
Rochelle Veenemans
Rochelle, an exceptional 18-year-old singer, defies expectations and inspires with her remarkable talent and unwavering determination. Despite being Blind, she has shown the world that her voice knows no boundaries. Rochelle attends the school for visually impaired children in Pretoria, where she continues to nurture her passion for music.
At the tender age of four, Rochelle made her solo stage debut alongside renowned South African tenor Manuel Escorsio. Since then, she has become a regular performer at charity events and children’s music theatre productions. She fearlessly competes in various Eisteddfods, consistently leaving audiences in awe of her captivating performances.
Rochelle’s exceptional musical abilities have been recognized through numerous accolades and awards. In 2012, at just seven years old, she received a special award from the South African National Eisteddfod Academy for her breathtaking rendition of Bach’s aria, “Bist du bei mir,” in the grade 1 category. This achievement earned her an invitation to perform at the prestigious Young Performers Showcase at the Atterbury Theatre in Pretoria.
The following year, Rochelle won the overall Junior Section for Classical Vocal Music at the National Eisteddfod Academy, securing a special Gold Medal Award. Her mesmerizing performance of Mozart’s aria, “Voi che Sapete,” showcased her exceptional talent and left a lasting impression on both judges and audiences alike.
Rochelle’s journey has been marked by numerous highlights, including interviews on SAfm and RSG, and an invitation to perform at the South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind’s Diamond Jubilee Gala Concert at the Joburg Theatre. With a 70-piece symphony orchestra accompanying her, she captivated the audience with her rendition of Puccini’s aria, “O mio Babbino Caro.”
Over the years, Rochelle’s extraordinary vocal abilities have garnered her eight gold medals at the Afrikaanse Kunsvereniging Pretoria for her renditions of classical and oratorio works. Her dedication to her craft was further recognized in 2018 when she was awarded 100% and a gold medal for her rendition of “I Could Have Danced All Night.”
Beyond her solo endeavors, Rochelle has also been involved in various musical groups, including the girl group Devine Broadway Babes, specializing in contemporary Broadway musicals. Additionally, she was a member of the Klassika Vocal Ensemble, where she contributed to performances of Pergolesi’s deeply moving Stabat Mater.
Rochelle’s talent extends beyond singing, as she successfully passed her first ballet Grade 1 Class Award for the Royal Academy of Dance in 2020. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her achievements both on and off the stage.
In recognition of her remarkable talent and advocacy for persons with disabilities, Rochelle was appointed as the national Goodwill Ambassador for the Casual Day Projects in 2022. Her role allows her to inspire and uplift others while raising awareness for the inclusion and empowerment of individuals with disabilities.
While Rochelle focuses on completing her final year of school, she continues to embrace the belief that “anything is possible under any circumstance.” This motto serves as a guiding principle in her life, reminding her and those around her that determination, passion, and a positive mindset can overcome any challenge. As she looks to the future, Rochelle’s extraordinary talent and indomitable spirit are sure to leave an enduring mark on the world of music and beyond.
Connect with Rochelle on Instagram
Scado Mkhondo
Scado Mkhondo is an excellent communicator who has aspirations to pursue different avenues within the media space including advertising, acting, modelling, TV and Radio presenting.
Her dream is to be a public figure and to use her disability to inspire fellow South Africans to follow their dreams no matter what their challenges are in life.
Scado was born with a disability known as Ataxic Cerebral Palsy. She attended the semi-private school Muriel Brand for learners with special needs where her multi-lingual skills were developed, learning to speak Zulu, English and Afrikaans fluently.
She graduated from Damelin Bramley in TV and Radio Presenting, she also graduated from Star Quality in Drama. She’s developed a strong commitment to advocating for the equality of persons with impairments through media.
Scado is a Champion for the rights of Persons with Disabilities who uses her platform to be a voice for change. She especially loves advocating for the rights of Children with Disabilities.
Connect with Scado on Instagram
Thabo David Mofokeng
Thabo David Mofokeng, born on July 3, 1981, in Boksburg, has faced numerous challenges throughout his life but has remained determined to pursue his passions and make a positive impact on his community.
At the age of 1, Thabo was diagnosed with Yellow Jaundice, which resulted in a year-long stay at Leratong Hospital. At 4 years old, he experienced partial blindness in both eyes due to Glaucoma.
Raised by his grandmother, who had limited income, Thabo relied on state support for his education. He attended Thiboloha School for the Deaf and Blind in QwaQwa, Free State. Tragically, Thabo’s grandmother passed away in 1997, leaving him without a caregiver. Social workers placed him in the Tshireletsong Children’s Home in Bloemfontein.
When he turned 18, Thabo’s eye condition worsened, leading to a year-long break from school for intensive treatment. However, he persevered and enrolled in Grade 11 at The Philadelphia School for the Blind in Pretoria, where he eventually completed his matriculation.
In 2003, Thabo pursued his passion for assisting the physically challenged by attending Optima College for the Blind. He chose Orientation and Mobility (O&M) as his course of study. Following the completion of the one-year program, Thabo sought employment at the National Council for the Blind (NCB) but faced limited success. Instead, he turned to his other passion—dancing and music. He auditioned at the Sebikwa Art Centre in Benoni and secured a learnership at Mappp-SETA, where he studied dance, music, and African drumming.
Thabo’s achievements at the Sebikwa Art Centre were noteworthy, as he excelled in his studies despite being the only physically challenged learner at the time. After graduating, he landed a part-time job at Masutsa Dance Theatre in Qwa-Qwa, where he served as a resident choreographer and managed outreach programs for African Drumming.
In 2011, Thabo faced another setback when his Glaucoma worsened, resulting in complete vision loss in his right eye. This prevented him from continuing his work at Masuta Dance Theatre. Undeterred by the disease, Thabo founded his own group, Jazz Afro Arts Productions, which focuses on uplifting underprivileged communities through African drumming.
Thabo strongly believes in giving back to the communities that have supported him. With his small disability grant from the state, he finances Jazz Afro Arts Productions. The initiative has been able to volunteer its services to schools and community development programs. However, the current funding is
no longer sustainable, and Thabo seeks outside support to continue the important work of Jazz Afro Arts Productions.
Despite the challenges he has faced, Thabo remains resilient and committed to making a difference. His love for music, dancing, and community upliftment drives him to overcome obstacles and inspire others with his positive attitude and dedication.
Unarine Mulaudzi
Unarine Mulaudzi, proudly from Limpopo, embodies the spirit of leadership and determination. As the first member of her family to complete high school and earn a degree, she has paved the way for future generations. Unarine holds a Bachelor of Commerce Honors degree from the University of the Free State, where she established herself as an exemplary student and leader.
Throughout her academic journey, Unarine has taken on various leadership roles, leaving a positive impact on her peers and the wider community. Recognized for her involvement and dedication, she has shown a natural ability to connect with others and make a difference in their lives.
With a keen eye for organization and a wealth of knowledge, Unarine possesses excellent communication skills and a strong desire for personal growth. Her enthusiasm and commitment to continuous learning make her a valuable asset in any endeavor she undertakes.
In January 2022, Unarine joined the esteemed team of Casual Day Ambassadors, serving under the Association of and for Persons with Disabilities (APD) Free State. Within this role, she actively participated in Casual Day activities, including the promotion and sale of merchandise at her institution. Her contribution has helped raise awareness and funds to support individuals with disabilities.
Driven by her passion for community engagement and a desire to give back, Unarine has founded her own non-profit organization, the Unarine Foundation. Through this platform, she advocates for equality and inclusivity for children with disabilities in Limpopo communities. By organizing awareness campaigns and events, she strives to create a more inclusive society where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Unarine’s remarkable journey has attracted recognition and invitations to various events, podcasts, radio stations, and newspapers. Through these platforms, she shares her experiences, wisdom, and inspiring story, empowering and motivating the younger generation.
With her determination, leadership qualities, and commitment to making a difference, Unarine Mulaudzi serves as a role model for aspiring leaders and change-makers. Her dedication to creating equal opportunities for children with disabilities and her passion for community development make her an invaluable advocate for a more inclusive society.
Connect with Unarine on Instagram
Victoria Giuricich
Victoria Giuricich is a 23 year old aspiring model and rhythmic dancer who resides in Johannesburg, South Africa. Victoria was born with Trisomy 21.
After finishing her schooling at Brescia House School in 2017, Victoria successfully completed a 6-month certified model training course through The Model Academy, South Africa. Victoria dreams of becoming an international commercial and catwalk model, following in the footsteps of Madeline Stuart, the first international super model with Down Syndrome from Australia.
In 2018, Victoria was sponsored by EVE (Empowered Versatile Enablement) to attend a garment design course with popular South African designer Isabelle Lotter at her SIES!Isabelle Studio. Under the mentorship of Isabelle, Victoria created 3 unique garment designs and was given the exceptional honour of showcasing her designs in her very own private debut show at South Africa Fashion Week in October of 2018.
In September 2019 Victoria jetted off to Milan after having been honoured with an illustrious invitation from M Missoni (a high-end Italian fashion house based in Varese, and known for its colourful knitwear designs) to be one of their promotional models for their up and coming show at Milan Fashion Week!
On the same trip to Italy, Victoria entered the Ragazza Cinema OK Cinecitta World Pageant in Rome. Victoria was awarded the “Miss Cinecitta World 2019 Special Award” which was an award given in memory of a well-known Italian film director. During the pageant, Victoria danced on stage with popular Maurizo In!
Victoria absolutely adores dancing and is an eager level 4 rhythmic gymnast, training towards competing at events like The Special Olympics and The Trisome Games in the future. During the current national lockdown, Victoria has been doing online, live sessions with her coach.
She loves doing drama too and being on stage and performing comes naturally to her.
In February 2020, Victoria was a finalist in the Top Model South Africa Diversity category. This is the biggest platform for new models in South Africa and is affiliated with Top Model Worldwide. The Diversity category definitely hit South Africa by storm as models with varied abilities were able to enter for the first time.
Each of the 11 Diversity models were honoured with the “Top Model South Africa Diversity” title at the extravagant and spectacular Grand Finale at Sun Arena Time Square. It really is extremely refreshing and encouraging that the modelling and fashion industries in South Africa are coming on board with the rest of the world and embracing the fact that beauty is indeed incredibly diverse, thereby developing open minds and progressing towards inclusiveness, rather than the exclusive stigma the fashion industry has previously developed.
Victoria participates in community service through her church and has clocked 90 hours of volunteer work at Friends of Free Wildlife Animal Sanctuary in Johannesburg as an animal carer and chef!
Not just a model but an exceptional role model, Victoria is a wonderful example of a young lady who is working diligently and passionately towards achieving her goals and dreams in the fashion and modelling industry, as well as, in rhythmic gymnastics, whilst whole-heartedly embracing her diversity.
Her motto is: “You are enough! You have what it takes! Never stop smiling and shining!”
Connect with Victoria on Instagram
Leandré ‘Lallie’ Kibido
Leandré Vaughnic Mary Kibido, affectionately known as Lallie, hails from Pretoria and has always identified herself as a dancer. Born with Albinism, she embraced her passion for dance from a tender age of 5 and has since explored various dance styles, including hip hop, Latin American Ballroom, Spanish dance, and Ballet.
However, life presented Lallie with challenges, and there came a period when she stopped moving her body, temporarily losing her connection with her beloved art form. Despite the difficulties, she found her way back to dancing, rediscovering her connection with every beat and rhythm coursing through her entire body. This resilience and determination led her to reclaim her identity as a dancer, fully immersing herself in the world of movement and expression.
Lallie is continuously honing her skills and aspiring to professionalize her passion for dancing. She sees dance not only as an art form but also as a means of self-expression and empowerment. Through her performances, Lallie conveys her unique voice and perspective, transcending any limitations her condition might present.
Her favorite quote, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts,” by Winston Churchill, resonates deeply with her. Lallie believes that even when life knocks you down, it is the courage to rise again, to stand more firm, that ultimately defines one’s journey to success.
Connect with Lallie on Tik Tok
CASUAL DAY RADIO ADVERT 2023