Albinism Day highlights success against prejudice
SPEAK to anyone about model and TV presenter Refilwe Modiselle and those who’ve crossed paths with her will tell you she’s the ultimate inspiration and perhaps the first person to end stereotypes about people with albinism in South Africa’s fashion industry.
They will also inform you that she is one of the prime examples of how to be “comfortable in your own skin”.
Better yet, surf the internet for the name Thando Hopa and you’ll marvel at the model’s catwalk skills and her ability to create magic in front of a camera lens.
But these are not the only young renowned individuals who have placed people with albinism on the map and created awareness around the condition.
Today marks International Albinism Awareness Day. The day also brings to the forefront challenges in Malawi where albinos are hunted for their bones and body parts.
Many South Africans, on the other hand, are standing up against prejudice and proving that living with an inherited genetic condition that reduces the amount of melanin pigment formed in the skin, hair and eyes does not warrant being treated differently.
Those who are on a mission to dispel stereotypes and myths about albinos include young actress Michelle Mosalakae, a Rhodes University graduate who made her debut as Zakithi, a traditional leader on the Mzansi Magic’s soapie, Isibaya, a few months ago.
Her arresting looks have created vast interest and propelled debate on what beauty really is and how society views what makes a beautiful person.
Free State-based motivational speaker and entrepreneur Palesa Mosiea, 32, has also inspired many. She obtained her driver’s licence yesterday after being told all her life that she wouldn’t drive.
“I’ve had to cross hurdles to be where I am today. I’m a living testimony of how we should never give up as people with albinism,” she says.
Mosiea, a thriving businesswoman, says she owned four cars before she obtained her learner’s and driver’s licences and had a personal driver.
“If it hadn’t been for the banks and insurance companies that took a chance on me after many similar organisations turned me down, I would still be without a car. It is time traffic departments in this country gave us a chance. The government also needs to wake up and realise that we are not disabled but capable.”
Mosiea uses a special custom made lens that helps her see clearly on the road.
She attributes her success to the support of her family.
“When I was young, I was torn between not being white enough and black enough. I was bullied and ridiculed until I stood up for myself,” she says.
Mosiea is now actively involved and advocating what she says is her favourite project, rebranding albinism.
It is thought that one in 4 000 South Africans lives with albinism. It is also known that the condition affects some plants and animals. Attacks on and killing of those with albinism occur on the African continent and locally.
In March, Esethu Jabula was found dead in a shallow grave in Bizana, Eastern Cape. His head, stomach and a hand had been removed.
In 2015, four people appeared in a KZN court after they murdered a woman for muthi (medicinal) purposes.
Founder and executive director of the Albinism Society of South Africa Nomasonto Buthelezi said although the killings occur, the attitude of more South Africans is changing with time.
She, however, said those with albinism still need jobs and exposure to various sporting codes.