Rising Beyond Physical Barriers: Kidist’s Journey to Possibility

According to the World Report on Disability by the World Bank and WHO, an estimated 15 million people in Ethiopia live with disabilities, representing nearly 18 percent of the population. These include individuals with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental impairments, many of whom face barriers to education, healthcare, and full participation in society.  

In Hossana town, Kidist, a 16-year-old girl, has experienced these challenges firsthand. Born with clubfoot deformity, where both her feet were twisted inward, she faced mobility limitations from an early age. As a young child, her spirit remained undaunted. She smiled, played with her siblings, and embraced her childhood with joy. But as she grew older, her disability became more visible in her daily life. Walking, attending school, and participating in routine activities became increasingly difficult. Comments from peers and her inability to keep pace with others affected her confidence. Slowly, the vibrant, playful Kidist her family knew began to fade, replaced by self-doubt and isolation. 

Overcoming barriers with support 

For years, Kidist struggled with physical, emotional, and social challenges. Her limited mobility restricted her independence and her participation in school and community life. Without medical intervention and with her family unable to afford treatment, her condition risked worsening. In 2022, her life began to change when she was identified for support through SOS Children’s Villages in Ethiopia’s “Advancing the Rights of Children and Young Adults with Disabilities in Hossana City” project. Through community mobilization and screening campaigns, young people like Kidist were connected to essential services. With the project’s support, Kidist traveled to Addis Ababa for corrective surgery, stayed 15 days for recovery, and completed follow-up care to restore her mobility. The surgery opened new possibilities for her future and rekindled the joyful, confident spirit everyone had once known. 

Reclaiming life and confidence 

Today, Kidist walks independently, attends grade 7 with strong academic performance, and actively engages with her peers. Her confidence has grown, and she feels fully included both at home and in school. 

“I am so grateful for the support,” she says. “My smile has returned. I am confident, socializing well with friends, and I can go wherever I want without much difficulty. My family and I are very happy with the change in my life.” 

Kidist’s journey is a powerful reminder that children and youth with disabilities are the heroes of their own stories. With the right support, they can overcome barriers, reclaim independence, and participate fully in their communities. 

About the project 

The “Advancing the Rights of Children and Young Adults with Disabilities in Hossana City” project, supported by SOS-Kinderdorf Schweiz, aims to enhance inclusion and participation for 250 children and young people with disabilities, half of whom are girls. The initiative works to improve accessibility, provide direct support, raise awareness on rights and inclusion, and ensure children can access education and community life fully. By strengthening local organizations and community networks, the project empowers children and young people like Kidist to thrive and realize their potential. 

*To respect the person's privacy, their real name has not been used.