"It is a milestone in the history of the Disability Expo that both the Gauteng Provincial Government and the South African Disability Alliance are officially endorsing it," says Ndiphiwe Ntuli, Group Specialist: Stakeholder Management, Airports Company South Africa. "This is highly significant, as it brings new relevance and credibility to the event, especially since the three organisations have a long history of co-operating and supporting one another."
Through the Province's partnership with Airports Company South Africa, it recently distributed R500 000 worth of assistive devices to people with disabilities throughout Gauteng.
Zain Bulbulia, acting Deputy Director General: Special Programmes in the Office of the Premier said the Gauteng Provincial Government welcomed the formalisation of its relationship with the Disability Expo and Conference. "We are extremely proud to be officially associated with this prestigious and vital event," he said. "The theme of this year's conference - 'Solutions for Delivery for People with Disabilities' - encapsulates everything the GPG strives for in providing services, accessibility and quality of life in Gauteng."
The GPG published its Gauteng 2055 (G2055) Discussion Document during the recent 2012/2013 budget vote in the Province. "Gauteng 2055 is the Province's long-term future plan, with youth as the primary stakeholders," comments Bulbulia. "This plan, called Vision 2055, seeks to make Gauteng one of the most highly competitive cities in the world. In simple terms, it will shape and influence the course of growth and development in Gauteng. The disability sector's input in this document is vital."
Bulbulia is optimistic about the strides made by the Province in carrying out its obligations to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (UNCPRD).
The establishment of the Disability Rights Directorate in the Office of the Premier, to accelerate equitable delivery to people with disabilities, is a key achievement. "We are continuing to implement the Inclusive Education Policy for learners with special educational needs, and also providing free healthcare to patients with disabilities who cannot afford it," adds Bulbulia.
The South African Disability Alliance (SADA) is the collective voice of the disability sector in South Africa. It comprises 12 assorted national organisations that represent the majority of disability sectors in South Africa.
Thanks to SADA member organisation, the QuadPara Association (QASA), it has facilitated the disability sensitivity training of airport staff at all Airports Company South Africa airports.
"For both SADA and the Gauteng Provincial Government to endorse the Disability Expo is a substantial accolade for the event," says QASA CEO and SADA Vice Chairperson Ari Seirlis. "We too, are proud of our long association with the show; it has played a significant part in QASA and SADA activities over the last decade."
Now in its eighth year, the Airports Company South Africa Disability Trade and Lifestyle Expo and Conference showcases disability lifestyle solutions to people with disabilities, their families, friends and caregivers.
"The expo is growing in popularity and scope as the country's premier forum for disability-related interests," adds Seirlis.
The exhibition will include entertainment and lifestyle choices; adapted vehicles; assisted daily living equipment and service (ADLS); communication aids; computers; easy reach devices; emergency medical supplies; hand cycles; hearing aids; hospital furniture; mobility aids; occupational products; patient handling devices; physio equipment; products and aids for the deaf and blind; prosthetic artificial limbs; showering devices / building products; sports equipment; training institutions; walking sticks; wheelchairs; wheelchair clothing and, much more!
The Conference component of the Airports Company South Africa Disability Expo takes place in the same hall as the exhibition, so delegates will not be far away from the trade show and the exhibitors. Last year the Airports Company South Africa Disability Expo and Conference attracted 200 delegates and 1 500 visitors, and more are expected this year.
On Saturday 8 September the expo will host several discussions with disability sector celebrities in the sports arena. A big screen TV will also display the final heats of the Paralympics.
For more information on exhibiting at or visiting the show, contact:
Bette McNaughton - Event Director. Tel (+27) 11 784 4279. E-mail: moc.stnatlusnocriaf@cmetteb. Website: www.fairconsultants.com.
For more information on the Airports Company South Africa Disability Conference, contact:
Catherine Larkin - CVLC: Tel: (+27) 11 789-7327. E-mail: az.oc.clvc@enirehtac.
