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Christine Chama
" Self-acceptance is the key to happiness "
" I was born in Kabwe , Zambia with a condition known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta . The second of four children , I hold the honoured position of being the only girl . My family has been my greatest support , never making me feel that I was any different to my siblings .
Perception of people with disabilities
People in my community and country have very negative perceptions about people with disabilities . It is erroneously believed that they are always looking for someone to help them ; they cannot sustain themselves ; cannot work , neither do they want to work because they prefer to be dependent on others . I want this perception to change and as a person living with a disability , I am determined to be the change I want to see . It all starts with me as a person . How I conduct myself , present myself to people and interact with them . How I make myself be inclusive and take the opportunities that are available . Positive perceptions about people living with disabilities should start with us .
Growing up in my community
It was difficult living in my community because people with disabiities were not a common sight . If I look around my neighborhood now , I think I ' m the only person living with a disability so you can imagine how people would stare when I ’ m walking along the streets . Some would run away from me because I ’ m different from them .
Growing up with a disability had numerous challenges because there were not many people who were willing to interact with me . Myths also perpetuated this . Some believe if you interact with a person living with a disability , you will eventually have a disability yourself , or you ’ ll give birth to a child with a disability .
Opportunities to educate
My own situation has given me an opportunity to educate people . I ' ve taken it upon myself to use my voice to help others understand people with disabilities and how to accommodate them in every sphere of life . We may be different in some ways , but we are human with emotions just like any other person .
I ’ m often told that I ' m a source of inspiration to others . When I receive feedback from people , I am motivated because this is a clear indication that I am on the right path . My life is a lesson to many , and I feel honoured to be able to change perceptions about people with disabilities through the way that I live my life .