2024 ABILITY EXPO: LASODA SHOWCASES TALENTS, CREATIVITY OF PWDs

… Urges Focus On Quality Products, Services For Competitiveness

Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) on Wednesday hosted the 2024 Ability Expo to showcase the remarkable talent, creativity, diverse skills and innovative abilities of PWDs and their significant contributions to society. 

From arts and crafts to vocational skills, creative skills like singing, dancing, rapping and drawing, the expo brought to the fore the limitless potential and resilience of PWDs to foster greater awareness and appreciation of members of the community.

The General Manager of LASODA, Mrs. Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, while speaking at the event held at the Academic Event Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, with the theme: “2024 Ability Expo: Showcasing Creativity”, commended the participants for their outstanding displays and urged them to prioritise the quality of their goods and services. 

Emphasising the need to maintain high standards for achieving keen competitiveness in both local and international markets by focusing on excellence and consistency, the General Manager noted that PWDs will not only enhance their marketability but also challenge stereotypes and break barriers in various industries.

She added that the initiative not only creates awareness but also facilitates social integration and economic independence for participants. “Talent hunts and exhibitions like today’s play a pivotal role in fostering an inclusive society by ensuring representation, empowering individuals and providing skill development opportunities”, Oyetunde-Lawal stated. 

The General Manager further noted that events like the Ability Expo help break down stereotypes and raise awareness about accessibility needs, stressing the importance of providing an avenue where people with disabilities can showcase their creativity and demonstrate that beyond disability lies ability.

Mrs. Oyetunde-Lawal encouraged members of the society to support Persons with Disabilities while recognising their boundless creativity and potential, saying “Let us end discrimination and create an enabling environment that acknowledges their talents and contributions”.

While calling for inclusivity and equal opportunities to foster confidence and enable people with disabilities to thrive, the General Manager made a renewed commitment that LASODA will continue to support and uplift the PWD community, ensuring their talents and contributions are recognised and celebrated.

The 2024 Ability Expo also featured a seminar facilitated by Mr. Akintunde Oguntoye, a retired Director with LASODA who exposed the participants to the necessary tools and knowledge needed to thrive in their respective fields. The facilitator provided valuable insights into best practices for product development, marketing strategies and business management. 

He underscored the importance of continuous learning and adaptation, encouraging PWDs to stay ahead in an ever-evolving market landscape through attendance at workshops and seminars for personal improvement.