“I now do not miss any opportunity to shine after being crowned Ms. Blind Rockers 2021,” proudly proclaims Ms. Sami Lawati.
A twenty-year-old born blind, Sami hails from the village of Khareldada in the IIam district. She worked as a health counselor during the COVID-19 pandemic, but since her work was done virtually, she lacked confidence and independence regarding her capabilities.
Lawati began her transformative journey with the Blind Rocks during Mr. and Ms. Blind Rocks beauty pageant. Like many blind and visually impaired individuals, she initially believed that they were only fit for certain roles assigned by society. Despite having a keen interest in the beauty pageant world, she always thought it was not possible for someone like her. She was unaware of interpersonal skills, self-grooming, dance, and the joy of living life to the fullest.
After taking part in Mr. and Ms. Blind Rocks, she gained more confidence in her life. The workshops and training sessions provided by Blind Rocks significantly improved her body language and interpersonal skills. Lawati says, “Initially, I doubted myself when considering such activities as pageants, but now I say, ‘Of course, I can do it, blindness is not my limitation.'”
Today, we see Sami evolving into a more confident and inspiring woman. She delivers speeches on raising awareness of different disabilities and works as a trainer to empower other blind and disabled people. Her master of ceremony (Emcee) skills, highlighted through her confident voice and body language, have been evident at several public events.
This journey even led her to write a song with an empowering message, which has now become the Blind Rocks song. Additionally, she serves as a board member of the Blind Rocks.
Lawati joyfully expresses, “Now I travel independently, with positive perceptions of my capabilities. I firmly believe that everything is possible with the right support, and Blind Rocks has helped me achieve and realize this.”
In addition to her own transformation, her journey has also contributed to change the public perception towards the blind and visually impaired people in society.