About Us
Located in Mahebourg and founded in 2018 by mother and daughter Ferozia and Zahra Hosaneea, the Youth with Disabilities Empowerment Platform was inspired by Farzana Bachooa, sister to Ferozia.
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Ferozia, a Disability Rights Activist, with over 30 years of experience in the disability rights movement and inclusion, devoted most of her lifetime to the education of persons with disabilities. Zahra eventually followed into her footsteps. Together, they founded this inclusive platform, which represents a complete departure from the outdated medical approach of disability, which still largely prevails in Mauritius today. They both have the interests of persons with disabilities at heart and devotedly advocate for their inclusion in their community.
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Initially, the YWDEP sought to provide its beneficiaries with leisure activities. Eventually and with the benevolent funding of several sponsors, it was developed to provide more services to enhance the quality of living of persons with disabilities, particularly in the employment and entrepreneurial sector. It offers a wide range of services aimed at providing equal opportunities to persons with disabilities.
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The YWDEP consists of an upbeat team of young volunteers who work together to achieve its goals.
"My advice to other disabled people would be, concentrate on things your disability doesn't prevent you doing well, and don't regret the things it interferes with. Don't be disabled in spirit, as well as physically."
- Stephen Hawking
Our Mission
To advocate and promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities through empowerment trainings, workshops, social events and activities.
Our Vision
To empower our members to become leaders, advocates, entrepreneurs, self-employed and employees