Bizweni Changes Everything
The children cared for at the Bizweni Centre are those who frequently fall through the cracks
The last census to tabulate the number of children with severe disabilities in South Africa in 2001, estimated an amount of approximately 474 000 such minors.
The General Household Survey in 2009 classified nearly 2.1 million children (11.2 percent of the total child population) as disabled.
The real figure is no doubt far higher.
In 2020, The Mail & Guardian stated that special care centres nationwide provide support for just
11 000 children.
This indicates that 97.7% of children with disabilities do not receive any form of education, therapy or care.
We are passionate about the rights and needs of children with disability.
We are making a difference.
Estelle’s story
When 6-year-old Estelle first arrived at the Centre, she was completely dependent on a wheelchair for mobility. However, thanks to the vital therapy services provided by one of our skilled Occupational therapists and the unwavering support of our staff, she began to make marked progress. Her individual therapy plan focused on her unique needs, helping her develop the strength and skills to transition from the wheelchair to using a walking frame. As she gained more independence, her confidence blossomed, and her smiles became more frequent, reflecting her growing mobility.
Estelle’s progress has impressed everyone at the Centre. With these sessions, she not only improved physically, but also gained a sense of self-belief. Today, she walks independently and she even enjoys jumping on a trampoline, supported by her teacher’s hands.
This transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and expertise of the therapy team and the caring staff, who have created an environment where she feels safe, supported, and encouraged. She is now going from strength to strength, proving how important these services and the care of those around her have been in her journey.
Viewe’s journey
Viewe joined the Bizweni Centre in September 2023 with a diagnosis of severe Global Developmental Delay (GDD) and failure to thrive. He presents with a condition that mimics cerebral palsy—most likely a genetic syndrome—characterised by significant central hypotonia. At the time of his admission, Viewe was severely underweight and malnourished. His physical weakness and lethargy made it difficult for him to participate meaningfully in daily activities or benefit from any therapeutic input.
Recognising the urgency of his condition, our team engaged closely with his parents to provide education and support. A referral was made for the insertion of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG), which was successfully placed in April 2024. Although the transition to tube feeding posed challenges for the family, they adapted admirably with ongoing guidance and encouragement.
Since then, Viewe has made remarkable progress. With improved nutritional intake, he has begun to gain weight steadily, and alongside this physical transformation, his energy levels have increased significantly. He is now actively engaging in our therapeutic programme and making noticeable gains in his functional development. Gone are the days when Viewe slept through his classes. Today, he is alert, responsive, and filled with joy. He has captured the hearts of everyone who works with him – his infectious smile and heartwarming belly giggle brighten our days and inspire hope.
Thanks to the support and interventions provided through Bizweni Centre, Viewe’s journey has taken a hopeful turn.
He is no longer just surviving – he is thriving, and his future is full of possibility.
*names have been changed to protect their identities.