By Theka Ramokone
Organised by the Reakgona Disability Centre (RDC), Cinema Without Limits went beyond a simple screening of Can You See Us—it was a celebration of creativity, resilience, and inclusivity. The initiative showcased how film can empower students living with disabilities while amplifying underrepresented voices, using storytelling to break barriers, foster empathy, and inspire audiences to see ability beyond limitation.
Event organiser Boitumelo Mainganya, a UL alumnus known as Gaddafi the Poet, explained the vision behind the event.“Cinema Without Limits is more than just an event; it’s a platform for promoting inclusivity, social cohesion, and awareness around disability issues,” he said.
“By opening this experience to all students, we aim to encourage meaningful interaction, conversation, and empathy between students with and without disabilities,” Boitumelo added. “We want students to walk away with a deeper understanding of disability issues, to see beyond labels, and to appreciate the richness that diversity brings to our community.”
Guest speaker Tebatso Mashishi, known for his role as Kgosi on Muvhango, inspired attendees with a heartfelt message. “Resilience, self-belief, and the courage to break down societal barriers carried me through,” Mashishi said. “I faced many challenges and overcame countless stereotypes, but with determination, I reached my goals.”
He encouraged students to believe in themselves, “Every student should believe in their potential and remember, ‘Impossible is nothing.’ Embrace your unique strengths and chase your dreams no matter your abilities. We all have the power to challenge perceptions and help build a more inclusive, empowered future.”
Students reflected on the event’s impact. Tsholofelo Maliba, a fourth-year LLB (ECP) student with a partial visual disability, shares, “Cinema Without Limits creates a space where everyone feels welcome, especially those often excluded by traditional cinemas. It’s a step toward real accessibility and inclusion.”
Kholofelo Tjale, a first-year Bachelor of Administration student with a physical disability, added, “The event was inclusive, though audio descriptions for visually impaired attendees were missing. Accessibility should cover all needs. Events like this challenge stereotypes and show that disability is not inability. We need more of them on campus.”
The event concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, allowing students to interact directly with Tebatso Mashishi and reflect on the powerful messages shared. Attendees also took photos with the guest speaker, capturing the spirit of inspiration and unity that defined Cinema Without Limits. The session provided a memorable close to a meaningful event, leaving students motivated, informed, and more connected to the values of inclusivity and empowerment.
Photo by: Forgive Hlongwane
Photo by: Forgive Hlongwane
Photo by: Forgive Hlongwane
Photo by: Forgive Hlongwane
Photo by: Forgive Hlongwane
