Benjamin grew up in Kwamashu, one of the biggest townships in Durban. He is the last born of 4 siblings. He was raised by both his parents but sadly lost his father while he was still in primary school. His mother and older siblings continued to support him until he matriculated, went to tertiary and obtained a diploma in electrical engineering. He was fortunate to find employment at the age of 28 in one of the biggest companies in KZN.
He had just been working for a few months and decided to visit home to check up on his daughter and family. While journeying to a family outing the vehicle he was travelling in, was involved in a car accident in 2018. Benjamin was in a critical condition and spent many weeks in ICU. Upon gaining consciousness, it was discovered that he had lost his sight. He was then referred to the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society by the hospital for further psychosocial support and Orientation and Mobility training.
Benjamin received a lot of counselling, support and education from the KZNBDS social worker. Through grief counselling and attending a support group with other blind persons, Benjamin had an opportunity to interact with people who have a similar disability and reached a point of accepting his new life. The Orientation and Mobility team stepped in and assisted him with skills of daily living, outdoor skills and using a white cane. Through the help and support of his family, KZNBDS social worker and the O&M team, Benjamin is now fully independent and is able to travel wherever he needs to go without relying on another person. He has embraced his life with a visual impairment
Benjamin is also part of a social group with others in his community who have a visual impairment. They get together from time to time, plan small outings and socialize as people who have a similar disability. This group of individuals is proof that one’s life doesn’t have to come to a standstill due to having a disability and that one can still live their lives to the fullest.
Benjamin has a daughter that adores him very much. He is a very supportive father to his child and is active in her life. He says that his daughter is not embarrassed about his disability as she introduces him to her friend whenever he goes to her school to support her when she participates in sports. She also explains to others that her dad is blind and uses a white cane to navigate his way and that they can shake his hand to greet him. This helps Benjamin to be included in his family and community life. It is through Benjamin’s supportive family and KZN Blind and Deaf Society’s Services that He is able to play an active role in his family and social life and is an inspiration to many people who are going through a tough time accepting their disability especially due to an accident or illness
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