Problem Outline
After intensive research conducted in 1997 by interprofessional/different stakeholders such as Doctors, Social Workers, Physio/Occupational Therapists and community residents, it was found that within the community of Diepsloot there were many people with a variety of disabilities, either Physical, Mental health and Intellectual impairments.
The population of South Africa has just above 7% of persons with disabilities, but a higher percentage of these people face employment challenges irrespective of their domains as mentioned above. This is mainly because society and workplaces have obstacles that unfairly restrict or limit persons with disabilities from accessing economic opportunities.
Rights of Persons with Disabilities
According to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD: 2007), disability results from the interaction between persons with impairments and attitudinal and environmental barriers. The UNCRPD (2007) recognises persons with disabilities as individuals who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual, neurological, psychological or sensory impairments which, in interaction with various barriers, may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
ORGANISATIONAL STRATEGY PILLARS
Vision
To create community understanding of the challenges faced by people living with disabilities through education and communication, thereby reducing social exclusion and achieving better integration of people with disabilities into society.
Mission
We intend to empower and promote the rights of people with disabilities and create a society in which persons with disability can fully participate. Bona Lesedi aims to deliver skills development and capacity building programmes for persons with disabilities that will promote opportunities for employment and self-employment, entrepreneurship, and the development of cooperatives as well as the starting of their own businesses.
Values
Bona Lesedi believes that people with disabilities, irrespective of age, gender, culture, background, and religious beliefs, possess many skills and abilities, and have enormous potential for lifelong growth and development.