EDITH Masango (24) has made history by being Zimbabwe’s first visually-impaired person to defy her handicap and take up acting after she was featured as Jane in a short film, The Colour of Blood, which will most likely be screened at this year’s Zimbabwe International Film Festival.
BY TAFADZWA KACHIKO
Masango, who was identified by the film’s director Justice Chapwanya-Mukoena, said taking up acting has enabled her to correct misconceptions about visually-impaired people.
“Acting on that part which was normally reserved for those who could see and pretend to be blind was so interesting. I therefore speak to the world that people with my condition should not be limited or limit themselves,” she said.
“People who stay with the blind should respect them and treat them fairly and give them hope that there is life after visual impairment.”
The promising actress said she was born partially blind before losing her sight entirely in 2012 after giving birth when she was diagnosed of retinispigmentosa.
She said it was her first time to act in front of a camera and has interest to be actively involved in acting.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
“I see myself going very far imparting messages to the people on how they must treat us and how my fellows ought to present themselves,” said Masango.
Chapwanya-Mukoena described Masango as a very good actor and would always avail acting opportunities to her.
“When I was chosen to direct this film by the producer Nakai Matema I made some changes on the script and introduced a visually-impaired girl. I strongly felt that it would be more realistic to bring someone who is actually blind a move which was welcomed by the producer and my colleagues,” he said.
The film, which was produced under the Zimbabwe International Film and Festival Trust’s Short Film Project (SFP), deals with the theme of making choices.
Although Masango holds a course in Secretarial Studies, she had not been able to secure a job because of her condition.
