Veetha Sewkuran's Vision for Inclusion

Transforming Challenges into Empowerment:

Veetha Sewkuran, president of the KwaZulu Natal Blind and Deaf Society, has always been driven by transformation. Her greatest dream has been to see the Society grow into a fully inclusive, self-sustaining centre of empowerment. Veetha expanded, “A place where blind and deaf individuals are not just supported, but educated, trained, and employed, allowing them to live independent and dignified lives.”

Under her guidance, this vision is steadily becoming a reality. Veetha, although she holds the post of president as an unpaid volunteer, has revitalised the century-old organisation, guiding it from turbulence to renewed purpose and stability. Her inspiration, she explains, has come from the people she serves. “My inspiration has always come from the blind and deaf individuals whose courage, resilience, and determination remind me every day why I do this work,” she shares warmly.

“It also comes from my colleagues and volunteers at the Society, who give selflessly to uplift others. My inspiration, in essence, comes from seeing lives change, from turning challenges into possibilities, and from the belief that every person, regardless of ability, deserves to take their rightful place in society.”

GUIDING WITH PURPOSE AND PERSEVERANCE

When Veetha assumed leadership of the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society, she inherited an organisation facing immense challenges. “I walked into a time of deep crisis,” she recalls. “A forensic audit revealed significant financial irregularities, which led to criminal and civil proceedings as well as a Labour Court case. It was one of the most testing periods of my professional life.”

At the time, the Society was struggling to maintain public trust, donor support, and staff morale. Yet Veetha remained steadfast. “Whilst dealing with the legal and structural issues, I had to ensure that essential services to the blind and deaf community continued ninterrupted,” she explains. “That meant protecting jobs, managing limited funds, and restoring confidence among stakeholders." Her approach was rooted in transparency, ethical leadership, and teamwork. “In an NGO, you have to work together with your colleagues, staff, and volunteers,” she reflects. “To be inspired, one has to inspire. Your staff and volunteers must feel motivated to work with passion and pride. Only then can you create a supportive and unified environment.”

Through clear communication and unwavering resolve, Veetha led the organisation out of turmoil. “These experiences tested every facet of my leadership,” she admits. “But they also defined it. I learned that true leadership is not about comfort or convenience, but about standing firm in adversity, making courageous decisions, and leading with integrity even when the odds are against you.”

Her efforts bore fruit. The Society regained its footing and began to flourish once more. Under her leadership, it has launched accredited skills development programmes, including SETA-accredited computer literacy and sewing courses for blind and deaf youth. “Seeing our youth gain confidence through training and find work is incredibly fulfilling,” she says. “It proves that ability is not limited by disability.”

Beyond education, the Society has introduced life skills training, such as culinary programmes for the blind, and expanded its Adult Literacy and Training Centre. Veetha’s focus on partnership has also been instrumental in growth. “We have built strong collaborations with corporate sponsors, government departments, and community networks,” she explains. “Together, we are creating opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen our collective mission.”

Flagship events like the Eye Can Walk, Talk Sign, and Blind Navigator Rally have helped the Society raise vital funds. “These initiatives do more than sustain the organisation financially,” says Veetha. “They bring people together. They remind society that inclusion is everyone’s responsibility.”

A MESSAGE OF HOPE AND RESILIENCE

For Veetha, success is measured not only in programmes but in people. “My greatest achievement lies in witnessing transformation,” she says with conviction. “It is in seeing a once timid learner become a confident graduate or a once dependent adult now employed and thriving. Those moments show the true impact of compassion and service." Her leadership philosophy rests on three core values: choice, chance, and change. “I always tell young women to believe in themselves even when others do not,” she says. “Educate yourself, because education is your key to the world. Serve with purpose and remain resilient. I live by the three Cs: you have to make a choice, to take a chance, to make a change.”

Her words carry weight, not just as advice but as a reflection of her own journey. Leading as a woman in a male-dominated environment came with its own set of challenges. “There were moments when my decisions and authority were questioned,” she recalls. “But I refused to be discouraged. I knew why I was here and who I was serving.”Through persistence and unwavering faith, Veetha has cultivated a culture of compassion, teamwork, and excellence at the KwaZulu-Natal Blind and Deaf Society. “We have built an organisation where every person, whether blind, deaf, or sighted, feels valued, respected, and empowered to make a difference,” she says.

Finding balance amidst her demanding role has been essential to sustaining her energy and focus. “Leading the Society is deeply rewarding but also demanding,” she reflects. “I make a conscious effort to balance service with self-care. My strength comes from faith, family, and gratitude. I take time to pause, reflect, and stay grounded.

Sometimes that means quiet prayer, sometimes time with loved ones. These moments keep me centred and remind me why I do what I do.” For Veetha, true balance is also about being fully present in each moment: “Giving my best to my work, my family, and myself.”

THE ROAD AHEAD

As she looks to the future, Veetha remains steadfast in her mission to expand the Society’s reach and impact. “We are building a Society where no one is left behind,” she says proudly. “Where blind and deaf individuals are recognised for their potential. Every challenge,” she says, “is an opportunity to make a difference. And when you serve with heart, the difference you make can last a lifetime."

Veetha Sewkuran's Vision for Inclusion

Veetha Sewkuran, president of the KwaZulu Natal Blind and Deaf Society