CELEBRATING ABILITY: CLUNY FARM HOSTS INSPIRING DISABILITY EISTEDDFOD

By Sipho Ncube.

• Inclusive Talent Celebration: People with Disabilities from across the Central Corridor showcased their talents in music, dance, poetry, and drama at the Regional Disability Eisteddfod.
• Inspiring Individual Stories: Participants like Mandla Leluta and Michael Dewet shared heartfelt reflections, highlighting the occasion’s empowering impact on self-expression and inclusion.
• Strong Community Participation: The occasion united over a dozen organizations dedicated to supporting People with Disabilities, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in promoting dignity and creativity.

Cluny Farm in Kyalami, Midrand, buzzed with energy and excitement on Wednesday as People with Disabilities from across the Central Corridor gathered to celebrate their talents at the Regional Disability Eisteddfod.
Hosted by the Gauteng Department of Social Development in partnership with the Cluny Farm Centre, the event provided participants with a vibrant platform to showcase their skills in music, dance, drama, and poetry — all despite the chilly weather.
“We are here today to celebrate you and your talents,” said Social Work Manager Tsholofelo Matima. “Enjoy this day as we prepare you for the upcoming provincial campaign in October.”
The day featured an array of inspiring performances. Mandla Leluta (49) from the Takalani Protective Workshop in Soweto expressed his appreciation: “I love this day because it allows us to express our God-given talents without feeling marginalized.”

For Micheal Dewet (31), a first-time participant from the St. Giles Residential Facility, the excitement was infectious. “I’m part of a group dance performance today. We’ve been practising for a week, and we’re ready to give our best,” he said.
The Eisteddfod brought together several organizations supporting Persons with Disabilities, including:
•⁠ ⁠Takalani Home Protective Workshop
•⁠ ⁠Sally’s Protective Workshop (San Salvador)
•⁠ ⁠Connie Mngomezulu Protective Workshop
•⁠ ⁠St. Giles Association Residential Facility
•⁠ ⁠Bona Lesedi Protective Workshop
•⁠ ⁠Modimo O Moholo Protective Workshop
•⁠ ⁠Aim Centre Protective Workshop
•⁠ ⁠The Gateway Protective Workshop
•⁠ ⁠Eldorado Park Protective Workshop
•⁠ ⁠Hope Centre
•⁠ ⁠Coronation Care Centre Protective Workshop
•⁠ ⁠Johannesburg Council for the Disabled (JOCOD)
The occasion was a true celebration of creativity, courage, and community spirit — a powerful reminder that talent knows no bounds.