The art of music is one of the oldest and most popular forms of artistic expression. The love of music is shared by many; it unifies us as a society by transcending language, culture, and most importantly, our physical abilities.
The ‘Seen but Seldom Heard’ project, implemented by the Bright Future Community Development Centre, aims to support persons living with albinism and other disabilities through skills development and mentorship and by providing a platform for these artists to perform and showcase their musical talents.
The project also aims to heal, reconcile, and educate the public and to dismantle the boundaries held against persons living with albinism and other disabilities through the art of music. Several social ills faced by persons living with disabilities were challenged throughout the implementation of the ‘Seen but Seldom Heard’ project, such as segregation, social isolation, discrimination, intolerance, oppression, and more.
The organisation writes, “Persons with albinism deserve to have their rights to life and security protected, as well as the right not to be subjected to torture and ill-treatment. Education and awareness-raising campaigns can help combat superstition and stigma associated with albinism”.
With the financial support of the National Arts Council, the ‘Seen but Seldom Heard’ project has made a cultural, economic, educational, and therapeutic impact in its surrounding communities. Bright Future Community Development Centre has promoted unity in diversity and inspired communities to co-exist in their respective cultures and beliefs while supporting persons living with disabilities and albinism.
The project has also empowered artists living with disabilities and albinism to be independent creatives who can develop and sustain a profitable future in the arts. A wide range of career opportunities was created through the ‘Seen but Seldom Heard’ project. Participants were able to improve their talents and skills through the comprehensive skill development sessions that were held.
