Life in Zimbabwe is difficult for all, particularly for those with disabilities.  Natives believe that disabled children are a burdensome result of witchcraft.  They are neglected, disowned and, in extreme cases, killed, in order to rid families of the “curse” that they bring.

When Prudence was born with arthogryposis, a disorder that severely deforms the joints, she was treated as no exception.  After being abandoned by her parents at an early age, she was raised by her grandmother Rachel who, unlike others, saw the girl as a gift from God. She taught her to sing while working out in the fields with her.  Eventually, Rachel could no longer care for Prudence and at age 7, the child was sent to live with her father.

Life at her fathers contrasted greatly with the happy childhood that Prudence had known previously. She was neglected by her stepmother who refused to touch or feed her, calling her a worthless “ant”.  However, when Prudence received a scholarship to King George VI School and Centre for children with Physical Disabilities (KG6), her life was transformed.

At KG6, Prudence found a home for herself.  She was given a wheelchair, went to classes and formed close friendships.  When a teacher persuaded her to join the choir, Prudence rekindled her passion for music and discovered her hauntingly beautiful voice.  Before long, she formed an Afro-fusion band called Liyana.

All eight members of Liyana shared a similarity– they wouldn’t allow their disabilities to oppress their dreams.  Liyana became the loving, supportive family that Prudence never had.  The band wrote and performed together and soon became local celebrities.  Their passion for music is evident from the infectious soundtrack that runs throughout the documentary but it is the final concert scene that truly encompasses the bands admirable dedication and spirit.

Music by Prudence interweaves personal interviews with footage of the band to create an inspiring and insightful documentary for all ages.  The film is a delight to watch and no viewer can escape either the sense of delight or the deep contemplation that comes with it.  Prudence, who now teaches at KG6, is a role model for those with and without a disability.  She encourages those with a disability to follow their dreams.  With this documentary, Prudence hopes to change life for the disabled in Zimbabwe and worldwide.

The Gala screening of Music by Prudence in the Irish Film Institute marked the beginning of Abära– Ireland’s first International Disability Film Festival.  The films included in Abära highlight the potential of people with disabilities and offer an insight into their extraordinary lives.  Two organisations, Dóchas Disability and International Development and Arts & Disability Ireland, have been working in collaboration to make this festival a possibility.  Abära runs from the 20-23 October takes place in the I.F.I. in Temple Bar and Axis Cinema, Ballymun.