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Yvonne Ncube, Showbiz Reporter
MANY people with disabilities prefer to withdraw from society, denying themselves the opportunity to showcase their talents and qualities, but Sakhile Ndlovu, a rising actress from Bulawayo, has refused to be defined by the odds.

She says people often stare at her, perplexed as to why an adult has a child’s body, but she has never let that stop her from pursuing her dreams.

The 21-year-old stands at 1,24 metres tall.

“When I’m in public, people react differently to my height and I can easily tell that they have so many questions as to why an adult is in a kid’s body,” she said laughing.

“Growing up, it had an impact on my confidence, but it all changed as I learnt to love myself just the way I am.”

She said she realised her passion for acting after participating in school drama competitions.

“I fell in love with posing as a different character than I was in reality and found myself taking part in dramas at school. That’s when I realised that acting was part of me and how passionate I was about it. From that point, I vowed to myself that after my Advanced Level studies, I’d definitely pursue what I love (acting).

“So last year, I saw a post on Facebook from Purple Brain productions searching for artists to be part of their upcoming musical theatre drama called Love: Her Game of Chess. I immediately prepared myself for the auditions and by the grace of God I qualified. They gave me this interesting character called Sandra. Sandra is very talkative, nosy and bubbly.”

Ndlovu said this will be her first time performing ever since high school. “I’m super excited to be part of Chantelle Phindile Moyo’s production as she’s the one who wrote and directed the play. I believe this production will be a stepping stone to greater dimensions,” said Ndlovu.

The young actress asserted that her vision is to inspire people in a positive way while also exhibiting that disability does not imply inability.

“As an entertainer, it’s my responsibility to have a positive impact on people’s lives. I know I’ll be successful because I’ve already accomplished it on the inside. Young people, particularly young women, should see the potential that exists within them, and that no matter what life throws at them, it will not prevent them from doing what they are intended to do and realising their ‘big sized dreams’.

“Many people may think I’m disadvantaged because of my height, but I’m not because when life gives you lemons, you make grape juice out of them and this is what I’m going to show the world. Nothing can stop you from achieving your goals; only you can limit yourself by being unaware of who you truly are.” – @SeehYvonne