Joel Lelimo (39) from Namahadi was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, , which causes bones to break easily. Because of this, Lelimo is unable to walk – but he has not let that hold him back from his dreams.

Lelimo has obtained more than one certificate from projects run in the province, including in entrepreneurship. He has also been involved with learnership projects such as loveLife, and told OFM that he goes all out to achieve his goals. “I am always ready and available to start anything new that will help shape my life, even if many people see it as impossible for me,” he said.

If it wasn’t for his disability, Lelimo would have wanted to become a professional soccer player. “Soccer is my favourite sport. I would spend a lot of time watching the boys playing on the local sports ground,” he shared. “My late brother was my hero – he was very talented, and I wanted to follow his footsteps.”

Lelimo faces barriers in his environment that make it difficult for him to get around or access places. Many buildings, including shops and government department buildings, were only built with easy access for people who can walk, and don’t have wheelchair ramps or have doors that are too narrow for wheelchairs to pass through. He also worries about the unemployment rate. “Some people who live with disabilities struggle to get jobs and that is a serious challenge,” he said.

Despite these obstacles, Lelimo stays confident and keeps aiming for his dreams.

OFM News/Tumelo Khotha/Christine/Dane