HODZEKO Arts and Culture Association recently held a one-day workshop in support of its anthology Voices of Resilience project, empowering persons with disabilities who showcased their talents and creativity.
The workshop brought together poets with and without disabilities, embracing a participatory approach that creates a transformative experience.
The workshop aimed to harness the creative talents of artists with disabilities, providing a platform for them to express themselves through poetry.
By bringing together poets with and without disabilities, the association fostered a sense of inclusivity and creativity.
The Voices of Resilience anthology project seeks to promote resilience and empowerment among artists with disabilities.
Through the workshop, participants were able to share their experiences and perspectives, showcasing their talents and creativity.
The workshop received support from the Culture Fund of Zimbabwe Trust and the European Union.
The Culture Fund’s CreativeACTIONs 2 programme, funded by the European Union, aims to strengthen Zimbabwe’s cultural industries by nurturing and empowering artists and cultural practitioners.
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Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association’s participatory approach ensured all participants felt valued and included.
The workshop provided a safe space for poets to explore their creativity, build confidence and develop skills.
Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association executive director Dumisani Ndlovu told NewsDay Life & Style that the workshop was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and creativity in empowering artists with disabilities.
The Voices of Resilience project is a testament to the power of art in promoting resilience and social change.
With the support of the Culture Fund of Zimbabwe Trust and the European Union, the association is making a positive impact in the lives of artists with disabilities.
“Hodzeko Arts and Culture is thrilled to celebrate the triumphant debut of our the Voice of Resilience Workshop. By embracing a participatory approach, we created a transformative experience that harnessed the creativity and talents of artists with disabilities,” Ndlovu said.
“We extend heartfelt thanks to the Culture Fund of Zimbabwe Trust, the European Union (EU), Zimbabwe Republic Police Officer Commanding Midlands province Patson Nyabadza and Officer Commanding Gweru Urban District Chief Superintendent Leon Marongedza for their pivotal support.
“Together, we’re advancing artistic expression, cultural diversity and resilience, and we look forward to the profound impact this initiative will have on our community.”
Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association board chairperson Mavis Koslek praised the organisers for a job well done and she was thrilled to take the collaboration to new heights through the forthcoming anthology and Braille project.
“I would like to thank you for attending the workshop and I am delighted to have shared knowledge and skills with the team and I am deeply inspired by the enthusiasm and active participation, which made the event truly unforgettable,”she said.
“I am thrilled to take our collaboration to new heights through our forthcoming Shona anthology and braille project. Congratulations in advance to those whose outstanding works will be featured. We can’t wait to showcase your talents.”
Participants were over the moon, describing the workshop as an eye- opener to persons with disabilities who were equipped with skills on how to express and showcase their unique creative skills.
“I would like to thank the team for the writing skills and techniques imparted to us. We learnt a lot and I want to thank them for a beautiful day,” said Maria Sibanda, one of the participants.
“I would like to thank Hodzeko for a successful event, which is the result of many sacrifices. A day worth spending. There is a lot to learn and we have to teach others as well. They did an amazing job.” said Miriro Mutasa, another participant.
The initiative not only celebrated the talents and potential of persons with disabilities but also underscored the importance of creating supportive environments that foster growth and equal opportunities.
Hodzeko Arts and Culture Association’s efforts serve as a shining example of the transformative power of arts and culture in empowering marginalised communities and promoting social cohesion.
