Lesedi Self Help Association: Advancing Dignity and Inclusion for Children with Disabilities in Hammanskraal

In the heart of Hammanskraal stands a modest building with a name that carries hope: Lesedi Self-Care Centre. Lesedi, meaning light, has become exactly that for children living with disabilities, and for the caregivers who pour their hearts into creating a place of dignity, protection, and possibility.

This year, the United Nations commemorated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities alongside the global observance of Human Rights Day. Yet beyond the formal occasion, the day was dedicated to shining light, Lesedi’s light, on children who deserve to be seen and cherished. Families arrived slowly, some walking, others pushing wheelchairs along uneven paths, all drawn toward a celebration crafted with love.

Mr. Khudu Mbeba, the UN Coordinator for Disability and Inclusion, stepped forward to welcome the community. 

"This centre is more than walls,” he said. “It is a home of possibility. A home of light. But a light only shines when many hands protect the flame.”

He urged neighbours, parents, teachers, and faith leaders to see Lesedi as theirs, to walk through its doors not only on special days, but on any day, ready to help, teach, feed, read, or simply comfort.

“We are all custodians of these children’s dreams,” he added. “Let us nourish this centre. Let us make our children feel safe and loved.”

The management of Lesedi Self-Care Centre echoed his message. They spoke honestly of daily challenges, the strain of resources, the emotional weight, the resilience required to support children with diverse needs. Yet their stories were also filled with joy: the first time a non-verbal child suddenly laughed; the moment a little one recognised their own name; the quiet miracles that sustain their hope.

Representatives from the Department of Health also reaffirmed their ongoing commitment to the centre, emphasizing their role in ensuring that Lesedi remains a safe and sanitary environment where children receive the medication, monitoring, and care they need. Their message underscored that supporting the wellbeing of every child is not an occasional act, but a continuous responsibility.

Among the speakers was a long-time disability advocate sharing reflections from his book, “The Epitome of Disability.” His message reminded the community that disability is not a deficit but a profound expression of human diversity.

“Disability is part of the human story,” he said. “And every child here is writing their own chapter.”

As the programme drew toward its final moments, the atmosphere softened. Kefiloe Masiteng, Head of Office of the Resident Coordinator’s Office, stepped forward to hand over hampers filled with essential items—food, hygiene products, children’s supplies. A simple gesture, yet one carrying deep symbolism: giving back the love that Lesedi gives every day. “Retla ka lerato la Modimo, she said.

Under the bright Hammanskraal sun, the true celebration lived in the tenderness on the faces of parents who finally felt seen, the quiet pride of staff who often labour unnoticed, and the joyful laughter of children who, for a day, were defined not by their disabilities, but by their humanity.

As the event ended, the Lesedi Self-Care Centre stood as it always has, steadfast and hopeful. Yet something had shifted. Its light felt multiplied, carried now by everyone who had walked through its gates.

In Hammanskraal, where challenges are many, Lesedi remains a reminder that dignity is a right, care is a shared responsibility, and every child, no matter their ability deserves to be embraced within the warmest circle of community.