In a world where the digital age reigns supreme, where the realms of technology and innovation know no bounds, there exists a remarkable individual who defies not only the limitations of technology but also the confines of physical disability.
Meet Grace Salanje, a trailblazing woman whose extraordinary journey in the world of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) beats her physical challenges, inspiring to reach for the stars.
Grace, the last born in a family of seven children, stands out as the sole individual who has pursued higher education in her family and holds an advanced certificate in ICT.
At the tender age of 26, she is already a beacon of inspiration as she is one of the fastest one-handed typists who use a phone, laptop and computer to work. With a powerful vision, she studied and graduated at Lilongwe Vocational Training Centre and develops computer websites.
Grace says: “I was highly interested in technology that I had the desire to learn more about computers. I started using a technological device, which is a laptop, when I was in form 3 and this made me to have the urge to know more.
“Considering my condition, I felt that I would not be able to execute other types of jobs. It is not that I was looking down upon myself. Nonetheless, my passion in this field made me choose to study ICT against all odds.”
Despite receiving good education with the help of Tidzalerana Shelter Organisation, the job market still remains elusive to her. Not satisfied with erratic opportunities to knock on her door, Grace has committed herself to a noble cause.
Within the hallowed halls of Forum of Development for Youth with Disabilities, she teaches her fellow individuals with physical disabilities computer skills. Her dedication to empowering others through education towers like a guiding star, a testimony of her untiring spirit and resilience in the face of adversity.
She says: “Many say that ICT is very hard, and I truly agree with them. However, I didn’t want to focus on the negative side of it but rather the benefits of the course. I knew and believed my passion and that’s what lifted me higher.”
Grace’s extraordinary bravery, courage and ingenuity in balancing her scientific work with self-care and her disability has earned her recognition.
She was among women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) who were awarded on 27th April 2023 at the “Her for Tech” Magazine launch at Amaryllis Hotel for her enigma.
She also featured in the same magazine for her outstanding contributions to the science sector. She attributes her success story to self-belief.
Grace’s hunger for success transcends self-motivation. She also draws inspiration from the visionary leadership of the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) Vice-Chancellor Address Malata.
Likewise, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Daka Space Technologies Limited, Chisomo Daka stands as a beacon of inspiration in her eyes, underscoring her strong admiration for accomplished leaders in her unwavering quest for success.
While Grace has achieved much, she recognises there is still a need for support. She calls upon the Malawi government and well-wishers to make efforts to assist people living with disabilities, especially by providing accessible technology.
Said Grace: “I do teach other people at the organization computer skills such as how to type yes but that covers the theoretically part only and not practical because I’m lacking electrical devices to use in teaching practical work as my laptop is faulty for a year now and I will be grateful if other people step in and help. Imagine someone who is visually impaired yet is technologically innovative but cannot succeed because there are no user-friendly devices available for them to use.”
Additionally, she mentions that limited funding at the organization affects her plans for independence, preventing her from starting something of her own.
Grace therefore encourages her fellow individuals with disabilities, urging them to embrace their abilities. “Disability is not inability,” she asserts. “We must not undermine ourselves. We can achieve great things and amaze the world.”
Grace’s journey is a testament to the power of determination, courage, and ambition. Her story serves as a powerful message to both the abled and disabled, showing that the hunger for success knows no physical bounds—it is achieved through hard work, resilience, and self-belief.
