The Journey of Buhle: A Story of Empowerment and Inclusion

Meet Buhle, an 18-year-old girl from the Shiselweni region in Eswatini, whose resilience knows no bounds. Despite facing challenges due to her partial blindness, she holds on to her dreams tightly. Recently, her life took a remarkable turn when she became involved in a unique project funded by UNICEF and implemented by World Vision Eswatini. This is more than just a story; it’s a testament to the power of support and inclusion in transforming lives.

Buhle's journey began with a simple act of kindness: the provision of dignity packs. These packs contain essential items like soap, sanitary pads, and toothpaste, items that may seem small to some but are invaluable to Buhle. They bring dignity to her days, allowing her to navigate the world with confidence and pride. This gesture not only meets her physical needs but also communicates a message of care and inclusion, setting the stage for further empowerment.

Next came the gift of clothing, each piece carefully chosen to fit Buhle’s unique style and personality. With each new outfit, Buhle’s sense of self-worth grows, her confidence blossoming like a flower in bloom. No longer does she feel like an outsider; she is a vibrant part of her community. The clothing not only enhances her outward appearance but also reinforces her sense of belonging and acceptance.

However, the most transformative support comes in the form of education funding. Buhle received education support where her school fees were paid, totalling to over E6,000 (approx. $314), including her exam fees. This alleviated a significant financial burden on her family and allowed her to focus wholeheartedly on her studies,without worrying about financial constraints

Buhle also received a laptop equipped with special software called NVDA. This software is a game-changer, transforming Buhle’s world in ways she never thought possible. NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA) is a free and open-source screen reader for the Microsoft Windows operating system. Providing feedback via synthetic speech and Braille, it enables blind or vision-impaired people to access computers running Windows. This software was installed during a digitisation training that was conducted by the project at her school, demonstrating a commitment to leveraging technology for inclusivity and accessibility. With NVDA, Buhle can navigate the digital landscape with ease, accessing information and learning resources with just the touch of a button.

Moreover, as part of the project's holistic approach to supporting Buhle, she also received special shoes, which were donated to the school. These shoes are not just footwear; they are essential tools for a child living with a disability, enhancing mobility, providing stability, and preventing foot-related complications, particularly for someone like Buhle who faces challenges due to partial blindness. By ensuring she has the right footwear, the project not only promotes her physical wellbeing but also enhances her overall quality of life.

“These shoes aren’t easily found in shops, yet they make such a huge difference to these children. The project cut costs for parents and the school by purchasing these shoes and removed the hassle of finding them on our behalf. We’re truly grateful,” Cedzile, a teacher at Buhle’s school, said.

The impact of these interventions is profound. Buhle’s grades improved, her confidence soared, and her dreams have grown even bigger. With each passing day, she becomes more empowered, more determined to carve out a future that is uniquely her own. She is currently excelling in her studies at Eqinisweni High School, an inclusive school that embraces diversity and provides a supportive environment for all students.

“My grades went from 60% on average to a soaring 90%. These interventions really changed my life,” Buhle said, smiling.

But the project’s impact goes beyond Buhle; it ripples out into the community, inspiring others to embrace inclusivity and celebrate diversity. Through their efforts, UNICEF and World Vision Eswatini are not just changing lives; they are changing perceptions, breaking down barriers, and paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

“We’ve all seen Buhle’s self-esteem soar since the implementation of these interventions. The education support came at a crucial time in her life, providing hope and opportunity,” Teacher Cedzile highlighted.

As Buhle continues her journey, she knows that she is not alone. She dreams of being a social worker one day.

“I want to tap into a space where I am capable of helping other children living with disabilities with their emotional wellbeing,” she said.

With continued support, she can face whatever challenges come her way, knowing that she is supported, valued, and loved. And with each step she takes, she brings us one step closer to a world where everyone is seen, heard, and included.