Shuga Limb Foundation (SLF), an NGO of Akiin Shuga, lead singer of the popular Shuga Band
and disability advocate, is set to empower people living with disabilities (PLDs) through its ‘Gifted
and Talented’ Project.
The event, which seeks to celebrate and empower PLDs who possess extraordinary gifts and
talents, holds on 30 th May, 2016 at the Social Place, Sinari Daranijo, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Having sponsored the Children’s Day for PLDs for four consecutive years, SLF is charting a new
course in line with the global focus to promote Inclusion, Access, and Empowerment for Persons
with Disabilities.
It is widely noted that PLDs have a range of physical sensory, intellectual or psychosocial
impairments, which often interplays with various barriers that may hinder their full participation in
the Nigerian society.
According to Akiin Shuga,
“The objective of this worthy cause is to empower, promote and create opportunities for
sustainable livelihood and employment for People Living with Disabilities. The plan includes a
quarterly monitoring mechanism on sales, expenditures and profit margin for their ventures.”
Speaking further on his own story, Akiin Shuga recalls,
“I got my break in life when Alhaji O.K Alli bought me my first set of air brushes which I used in
designing cards. I later got a direct link to the makers of international cards back then in the
1990’s. This was my source of living before I ventured into music business fully.”
One of the beneficiaries, Toma, who’s confined to a wheel chair has a rare creative talent as a
Visual Artist, whilst painting with her feet. A selfless Art Instructor, Mr. Micheal Oluwatosin, took
an interest in her craft and nurtured her. Shuga Limb Foundation will be rewarding him for his act
of kindness, while also paying him for 3 months intensive training for the beneficiary.
The event on May 30 th will also be recognizing people who have selflessly supported PLDs, as
well as disability advocates and rare talents like Legendary Music Producer Cobhams Asuquo,
Nigeria Info OAP Adenike Oyetunde, Eng. Amusu, and others who have consistently used their
voices to impact society at large.
For the past few days, Akiin Shuga has been quite expressive on social media, taking audiences
through his journey, in a poetic storytelling sequence accompanied by powerful images of his
life’s journey. He defines ‘disability’ as “a mere word” that didn’t hinder him, but became a
springboard to his success.
The organisers have promised an exciting event, to be attended by distinguished guests and
personalities from all works of life, spiced up with lots of music and entertaining comedy.
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