In a heartwarming demonstration of community spirit, staff members of the African Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI) came together to support Miss Jamila Abdullahi, a vibrant young woman living with a physical disability. Their collective effort resulted in the donation of a new wheelchair, a life-changing gift that will significantly improve her mobility and independence.
The initiative was a true reflection of AWWDI’s ongoing commitment to empowering women and girls with disabilities, not just through advocacy and support, but through tangible actions that directly enhance the lives of those they serve.
A United Effort to Transform a Life
Recognizing the challenges Miss Jamila faced in her day-to-day mobility, several AWWDI staff members personally contributed funds to purchase a wheelchair for her. This unified effort saw contributions from across the organization, including:
- Mr. Jayeoba Kolawole (Program)
- Mr. Oshioriamhe Oshiobat Otono (Communications)
- Mr. Idewo Emmanuel Oluwasegun (Finance)
- Mrs. Foluke (Program)
- Mrs. Roseline (Program)
- Miss John Julie (Monitoring & Evaluation)
These staff members, each driven by a shared mission to uplift women with disabilities, banded together to ensure that Miss Jamila could lead a more independent life. Their contributions made a world of difference, allowing her to navigate her environment with greater ease, comfort, and confidence.
A Special Presentation by the Executive Director
In a moving ceremony that took place at the AWWDI headquarters, the wheelchair was presented to Miss Jamila by Mrs. Patience Ogolo Dickson, AWWDI’s Executive Director. Surrounded by the very staff members who made the donation possible, Mrs. Dickson spoke passionately about the importance of community support and the role it plays in the organization’s mission.
“This is more than just a wheelchair. It’s a symbol of what we can accomplish when we work together as a community,” Mrs. Dickson said during the presentation. “We believe that women and girls with disabilities should have the tools they need to live with dignity and independence, and we are committed to making that happen, one step at a time.”
Miss Jamila, who is also a valued member of AWWDI’s Self-Help Group (SHG), expressed her gratitude for the thoughtful gesture. The new wheelchair, she noted, will enable her to attend more community events, engage in daily activities with greater ease, and ultimately enjoy more freedom in her day-to-day life.
“I am so grateful to AWWDI and the wonderful staff who contributed to this gift. This wheelchair will make such a big difference in my life, and I am excited for what the future holds,” Miss Jamila remarked with a smile.
Empowering Women and Girls with Disabilities
The donation of the wheelchair to Miss Jamila is just one of the many ways AWWDI is working to empower women and girls with disabilities across Nigeria. The organization believes that every woman and girl with a disability deserves access to the resources and support they need to lead full, independent lives. From advocacy to skill-building programs, AWWDI’s initiatives are centered on creating opportunities for self-reliance and social inclusion.
This particular act of generosity highlights the organization’s core values of empathy, community, and empowerment. By stepping up to meet the specific needs of Miss Jamila, the staff at AWWDI showcased the kind of dedication that drives the organization’s mission forward.
“We are a team that understands the importance of actions over words,” said Mr. Oshioriamhe Oshiobat Otono, one of the contributors. “It’s not enough to talk about empowerment; we must also take steps to create real, tangible change in the lives of those we serve. This wheelchair is just one example of what we can do together.”
A Call to Action: Join the Mission
AWWDI’s staff members hope that this donation will inspire others to join the cause. As Mrs. Dickson pointed out during the presentation, there are still countless women and girls with disabilities in need of support, and every contribution helps to foster independence and create a brighter future.
“We have seen the impact that even a small contribution can make,” Mrs. Dickson said. “Today, it was a wheelchair for Miss Jamila. Tomorrow, it could be foodstuffs for a struggling family or guide canes for the visually impaired. Every little bit counts, and we invite anyone who shares our mission to join us in making a difference.”
The organization has launched an appeal for donations, encouraging individuals and businesses alike to support their ongoing efforts. Contributions can take many forms, including wheelchairs, guide canes, sanitary pads, foodstuffs, or financial donations. Every donation, no matter how small, has the power to transform lives.
Those interested in supporting AWWDI’s mission can reach out directly to the organization for more information on how to get involved.
The Power of Community
As AWWDI continues its work, the organization remains committed to addressing the unique challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities in Nigeria. The donation of Miss Jamila’s wheelchair is just one example of the power of community and the profound impact that collective action can have on an individual’s life.
By fostering a sense of togetherness and purpose, AWWDI has built a network of dedicated staff, supporters, and partners who are committed to breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive society.
“Our mission is clear: to uplift, empower, and create opportunities for women and girls with disabilities,” Mrs. Dickson emphasized. “And with the support of our incredible staff and community, we are confident that we can continue to make a real difference.”
Looking Ahead
As Miss Jamila embarks on a new chapter of greater independence, the staff at AWWDI are already looking ahead to the next opportunity to make a positive impact. With a renewed sense of purpose and a growing network of supporters, the organization is determined to reach even more women and girls with disabilities in the coming months.
The donation of this wheelchair is not the end, but rather a new beginning – for Miss Jamila, for AWWDI, and for the countless women and girls whose lives they continue to touch through their unwavering dedication and support.
