By Our Reporter
Disability is not inability, goes a popular adage. This was best demonstrated during the Sauti Canvas competition which came to a close on Friday as persons with disabilities took to the stage to showcase their talents.
Performing before a panel of five judges, over 20 participants with different physical and sensory impairments showcased their talents ranging from singing, to dancing, and playing instruments.
One such participant was Philip Odwera who was bound to a wheel chair because of a broken spine. Despite his disability, Odwera’s passion was palpable when it was his turn to perform. Holding the mic ignited a spark in him that made it feel like he had finally come alive. Singing an original composition, he owned the stage with a lively and vigorous showcase that had the judges swaying along. For his great performance, Philip Odwera was later crowned as one of the winners.
Other winners included Simon Namone, a pianist and singer; David Kagwe, a beatboxer; and a dance trio comprising of Nanono Hawah, Bawakana Samuel and Moses. The winners were each rewarded with Ugx 1 million.
Held under the theme “focus on abilities”, this year’s edition of the Sauti Canvas contest was aimed at transforming attitudes and norms around the participation of young people with disabilities in the music and arts culture in Uganda to be more inclusive and offer them opportunities to develop and market their talents in arts.
Speaking during a mentorship session, singer Fik Fameica advised the contestants to stay positive and encouraged them to continue working on their craft.
“No one is perfect, and no one should ever tell you that you can’t,” Fameica said. “The secret to success is knowing your strong points and focusing on building that; focus on your abilities and develop them.”
The singer further pledged to collaborate with select contestants on a music project to give a boost to their careers.
The finale was a hybrid event with a mix of both virtual and physical showcases which were held at the Voice and Beats offices in Makindye.