LIMPOPO – Bridge of Hope, a programme aimed at promoting inclusion in the film industry for learners with disabilities, recently hosted a movie day for learners from three special schools in Tzaneen and Phalaborwa.

Inclusive cinema for all

The participating schools were Letaba Special School and Yingisani Special School for the Deaf in Tzaneen, and Nthabiseng Special School in Phalaborwa.

The learners watched Cinderella, with the screening incorporating subtitles, visuals, audio and storytelling techniques to ensure that learners with different disabilities could follow and enjoy the film.

Inspiring future filmmakers

Victor Phiri from Chen Women Empowerment said the programme aimed to raise awareness of the benefits of inclusive media in promoting acceptance and participation.

“Through this programme, we are trying to involve local communities, caregivers and educators in planning and implementing film screenings,” he said.

We did not only want the learners to follow and understand the movie, but also to know that they can produce movies themselves.

There are filmmakers who are deaf, as well as videographers, make-up artists and producers living with disabilities. We want learners to be inspired and not limit themselves.

Gaps in disability inclusion

Geoffrey Letsoalo, a disability coordinator at Greater Tzaneen Municipality’s disability desk, attended the event and said there was still a gap in inclusion, not only in the film and television industry but across many other sectors.

Learners at Nthabiseng Special School, including autistic learners, were able to follow the film using the audio and visual elements.

Building partnerships

The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture also supported the initiative, which was a partnership between Chen, Mzansi Golden Economy and Roswika Multimedia Production.

Phiri called for partnerships with film schools, the private sector, government and disability organisations to increase the participation and inclusion of people with disabilities in the film industry.