— Abuja comes alive as fashion, disability advocacy, and child empowerment intersect at monumental event
Abuja, Nigeria – August 4, 2025
The Federal Capital Territory witnessed a remarkable display of inclusion, creativity, and courage as ‘The Engraced Ones’, a rising star in the world of disability advocacy, hosted the Inclusive African Children Runway 2025 — an unforgettable event that gave children with disabilities a platform to shine, express themselves, and challenge societal perceptions through fashion, drama, and dance.
Held at the prestigious FCT Exhibition Pavilion, Garki, Abuja, the runway event not only turned heads but also turned the spotlight on the pressing need for inclusive representation of children with special needs in every sector of society.
In a moment of profound recognition, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), through its representative Mr. Lawrence Idemudia, Director of Social Integration, commended The Engraced Ones for their groundbreaking work in advocacy, empowerment, and inclusive community engagement. Representing the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mr. Idemudia described the event as “a beacon of hope and a practical demonstration of the kind of society we all should strive to build — one that uplifts, empowers, and includes every child, regardless of ability.”
“Events like this contribute greatly to changing perceptions and breaking down social barriers that often limit the aspirations of children with special needs,” Mr. Idemudia remarked.
“As children, you are symbols of courage, creativity, and confidence. You are ambassadors of a new Africa where everyone belongs, every voice matters, and where every child has the right to dream, to be seen, to be heard, and to thrive.”
The atmosphere was electric with emotion and celebration as children with disabilities confidently walked the runway — not as victims or subjects of pity, but as trailblazers, creatives, and future leaders. Adorned in vibrant African attire, the children dazzled the audience with poise and elegance, a testament to their resilience and untapped potential.
The founder of The Engraced Ones, Mrs. Biboara Deborah Yinkere, in her inspiring address, reaffirmed her organization’s mission to challenge stigma, promote acceptance, and empower children with disabilities through advocacy, education, and skills training.
“This event is not just a fashion show,” Mrs. Yinkere said.
“It’s a movement. A movement that says children with disabilities deserve the spotlight, deserve support, and deserve the right to pursue their dreams like every other child.”
She explained how The Engraced Ones have steadily carved a niche in disability advocacy by organizing awareness programs, offering vocational training, and supporting families raising children with special needs. Through their work, they are rewriting the narrative and reshaping public perception of what disability means in an African context.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of assistive devices and sewing machines to children and their families by the NCPWD — a gesture that not only uplifted spirits but also demonstrated the Commission’s unwavering support for practical empowerment.
From moving drama sketches to spirited dance performances, the event seamlessly blended entertainment with advocacy, each performance echoing a clear message: disability is not inability.
The Inclusive African Children Runway 2025 also saw the participation of high-profile dignitaries, celebrities, and disability rights activists, many of whom walked the runway with the children in a symbolic show of solidarity. It was a powerful visual — VIPs hand-in-hand with young children with disabilities — reinforcing the message of unity, acceptance, and shared humanity.
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities and The Engraced Ones jointly called on government agencies, development partners, corporate organizations, and community leaders to mainstream disability inclusion in their policies, programs, and everyday practices.
“We cannot afford to limit our support to symbolic gestures. Inclusion must be holistic — in education, healthcare, employment, politics, sports, and the creative industry,” Mr. Idemudia urged.
The Inclusive African Children Runway 2025 didn’t just celebrate fashion; it celebrated dignity, dreams, and determination. It stood as a rallying cry to Nigeria and the rest of Africa: it’s time to embrace a new vision — one where no child is left behind.
As the curtains fell on the evening, what lingered was not just the beauty of the fabrics or the rhythm of the drums, but the glow of pride on the faces of children who, for one night, stood tall, proud, and visible in a world that often overlooks them.
By TQM News
