MOSSEL BAY NEWS - There are very few methods of exposure that work as well as first-hand experience - or is this case, first-sight experience.
Disability Accessibility Mossel Bay (Dam) proved this with its hosting of an unforgettable Dinner in the Dark event on Friday 29 May.
The guests stepped into complete darkness for an evening, which was aimed at building empathy, understanding and awareness for people living with visual impairments.
They were challenged to enjoy a full meal without the use of their sight, while the importance of accessibility and inclusion in Mossel Bay was being highlighted.
This unique experience had the participants relying on their remaining senses as they navigated conversations, identified food textures and flavours, and attempted everyday dining tasks in total darkness.
The evening was light and filled with entertainment. MC Blackie Swart kept the guests singing along to old favourites while challenge after challenge was rolled out. Local singer Vernon Barnard talked about autism and sang a beautiful song dedicated to his son, who was diagnosed with this disorder. The guests were also wowed by a surprise appearance by Elvis Presley - that is, Konrad Olivier’s take on him.
Konrad Olivier entertains the crowd as Elvis Presley.
Another massive highlight of the evening was the R5 000 raised through a special cake auction.
The cake that went for R5 000 on auction.
Ronel Maree (Dam’s project leader and sign language and deaf-blind interpreter) said the event was designed to provide a glimpse into the daily experiences of living without sight and to spark meaningful discussions not only about the barriers, but more importantly, about what can be done to overcome these.
“Many people don’t realise how difficult simple activities can become when spaces and services are not designed with accessibility in mind,” Herman Louw of the Dam team added.
Throughout the evening, the guests were guided by volunteers and visually impaired facilitators who shared personal stories about navigating public spaces, transportation, businesses and digital services in Mossel Bay. Several guest described the experience as eye-opening.
The event highlighted practical steps the town can take to become more inclusive for residents and visitors with disabilities. The Dam 5-star rating and accreditation system is designed to do just that.
Suggestions included installing tactile paving at pedestrian crossings, improving audio signals at traffic lights, ensuring restaurants and shops provide accessible menus, and offering disability awareness training for customer service staff.
The event was expertly led by Maree, with the support of the Dam team: Louw, Amanda Booyens, Patrick Saayman, Callie van Huysteen, Shireen Losper, Juanita Barnard and Diane Hobbs, and many kind volunteers.
As the awareness grows, those involved hope the event will inspire residents, businesses and local leaders to work together towards a more accessible and inclusive Mossel Bay for all.
For more information or to get involved, contact Maree on WhatsApp, on 068 708 0838?. ??
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
