Disability is too often seen through the lens of limitation. Mr and Miss Alexandra Heritage’s Ability Beyond Limits challenged that view, showing Alexandra that inclusion is about dignity and empowerment.

The disability awareness initiative, organised by Mbalenhle Ngwenya, first princess of Mr & Miss Alexandra Heritage 2025, was held on November 15 at the Alexandra Heritage Centre. It was intended to foster a culture of acceptance and understanding, encourage accessibility and equal opportunities, and empower individuals with disabilities to thrive.

Young people were central to the initiative. They used the event as an opportunity to tackle the stigma surrounding disability and negative attitudes head-on.

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“The participation of young people was crucial because they are future leaders, change makers, and advocates for disability inclusion,” Ngwenya said. “We involved them to innovate solutions, build movement, promote inclusive culture, and foster intergenerational learning.”

For participants, including Layla Bills, the 2025 queen and social butterfly of the Sipho Sethu Art Project, the event served as an opportunity to grow. “I personally learned a lot of things, met knew people, and found myself a safe space full of joy, love, and support.”

Although the event was dedicated to children living with disabilities, their representation was incredibly low. This is a concern noted by Linda Akromah, the founder of the Reconstructive Support Fund (RSF) – an organisation that ensures children with treatable disabilities receive access to life changing surgery.

Akromah said it highlights the ongoing need to push harder for true inclusion in community activities. “We, as RSF, would like to emphasise the importance of encouraging children with disabilities to take part in competitions such as these. Representation helps build confidence and challenges stigma.

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“It was an honour to be part of a programme that keeps children positively engaged outside of school, but we hope to see more children with disabilities being included and celebrated.”

She further commended the enthusiasm and the spirit of young people, adding that RSF appreciates the initiative and would like to encourage the organisers to continue opening doors for all children, especially those with disabilities, to participate fully and proudly.

Young people also engaged in indigenous games. Hlengiwe Ngubane, the founder of Mr & Miss Alexandra Heritage, said these showed just how well young people needed them.

She noted that, looking ahead, they plan to host similar events in the future.

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