Engraced Ones, a prayer support and advocacy group for parents of children with disabilities, has made a heartfelt call to the public to recognize and celebrate the abilities of children with disabilities, especially within the fashion industry. They urge society to see these children as assets, given their creativity and innovation, on par with their counterparts without disabilities.
This appeal was made by the convener of Engraced Ones, Biby Yinkere, during the sidelines of the ‘Inclusive African Runway 2024 Edition’ for children, held in Abuja on Sunday.
Biby Yinkere explained that her vision was inspired by the achievements of children with disabilities outside Nigeria, who have been able to showcase their talents. She emphasized that Nigeria should not be left behind in providing platforms for its own children with disabilities to shine.
She further elaborated that the Inclusive African Runway would play a crucial role in helping parents accept and nurture their disabled children, encouraging them to pursue their dreams.
“The major purpose of organizing this event is to create an enabling environment for children with disabilities to be accepted and to connect with other children, so they won’t feel deprived or neglected,” Yinkere stated.
This 2024 edition marks the second in the series, primarily bringing together children, especially those with disabilities, to showcase their talents in native attire designs that promote African and Nigerian cultures.
“Engraced Ones is a parent support group for special needs. Over the years, we have endeavored to show the world that our children with disabilities are not only human but also endowed with abilities. We have researched and discovered that children with disabilities in other parts of the world thrive in real fashion, modeling, and related fields. Rather than just talking about it, we decided to create an enabling environment to let everyone see their capabilities. That’s why we are here,” Yinkere explained.
She highlighted another key objective of the event: promoting local industries. “All the outfits showcased are locally made. This event is to show the world that we have talents in Nigeria and Africa. It is actually an African fashion show,” she noted.
Yinkere pointed out the diversity of participants, including children with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and other disabilities, alongside neurotypical children. “This is an inclusive fashion show. By bringing them together, rehearsing together, we are fostering friendships and creating bonds among them. They are seeing what these other children can do, beyond just their disabilities,” she said.
In her opening remarks, Yinkere acknowledged the support of various organizations in making the day a success, giving special recognition to The Leprosy Mission Nigeria (TLMN) for supporting several interventions in the lives of children with disabilities under the association.
Rakiya Hassan Abubakar, the National President of the Nigerian AirForce Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA), represented by Azumi Ladi Danat, praised the initiative and urged parents to guide their children in discovering and nurturing their talents.
Lois Auta, Founder of the Cedar Seed Foundation, also spoke at the event, urging the government to create an enabling environment for children with disabilities to study and demonstrate their capabilities.
“This initiative is a great idea for people to know that children with disabilities are capable and there is ability in disabilities,” said Rose Daniel, Vice President of the Network For Women With Disabilities. “Today, we see people from different cultures, backgrounds, and regions showcasing their culture. It’s a very good initiative. We want the government to include us in all their agendas because we are not second-class citizens. We are part of this country, and no one should be left behind, including children with disabilities.”
The event was a vibrant display of diverse Nigerian cultures, with children showcasing attire from various cultural groups and performing traditional dances. Adults with disabilities and parents of the children also took to the runway, displaying their talents and adding to the festive atmosphere.
A well-wisher from Bayelsa expressed her admiration for the event, saying, “I have never seen anything as beautiful as this, having children with disabilities on the runway with other children. It is a beautiful sight to behold.”
The Inclusive African Runway 2024 Edition was a resounding success, filled with energetic displays and fostering a sense of inclusion and celebration for children with disabilities.
