The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) today announced that it has joined forces once again with The Walt Disney Company Africa to bring awareness to and celebrate children and youth across the country.
Inspired by the Marvel retail campaign of the same name, the Marvel Heroes Unite initiative kicks off this month with a call for all South Africans to show their support for youth with disabilities. From 16 May 2023, fans are able to purchase specially branded wristbands from www.ncpd.org.za for R30.00 each.
On Youth Day, 16 June 2023, those who have purchased the wristbands are invited to wear them, showing their support and celebration of inclusion and equity for children and young persons with disabilities. Schools in particular are invited to show their support with learners encouraged to wear their wristbands on 15 June 2023, with a chance to win prizes for both the schools and individual learners. Wristbands will be available to purchase throughout the remainder of 2023.
Participants are welcome to share their support on social media by using the hashtag #NCPDHeroesUnite #Marvel and tagging @vavaiyouth on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. It is through these channels that you can enter the photo competition with fabulous prizes to be won.
Driven by the youth-focused project of the NCPD, Vava iYouth, the campaign seeks to further build on the long-term objective of facilitating full economic and social participation, rights and enjoyment for youth with disabilities. Funds raised from the campaign will go towards funding, education and training, as well as seeking opportunities for self-representation for this sector of the population. Ultimately, the long-term goal is ensuring that youth people with disabilities have equal access to resources and opportunities, leading to meaningful and fulfilling participation in society.
“Marvel Super Heroes showcase attributes such as heroism, relatability and community, with an openness in an interconnected world,” says Luke Roberts, General Manager, Consumer Products, Games and Publishing, The Walt Disney Company Africa Consumer. “We are excited to lend our support to the NCPD, after two successful collaborations under the Disney Princess banners, and bring this powerful campaign to life, all in an effort to showcase and celebrate young South Africans with disabilities.”
“The Heroes United campaign is a reminder that when we join in unity we can achieve great things and make the world a better place for everyone. It demonstrates that age, gender, race or ability do not have to be barriers to working together towards a common goal. Indeed, real life heroes do exist, they are ordinary people who show kindness and who are not afraid to advocate for social justice. So, let’s stand hand-in-hand and work to create an inclusive society that values and celebrates diversity.” Ado Bakasa, NCPD Coordinator Youth Affairs: Vava iYouth.
Inspired by the diverse, heroic, inspirational Marvel Super Heroes, the campaign seeks to show that the attributes that make the characters who they are – strength, endurance, kindness, courage, etc. – are found in all of us. In addition, it is when our characters unite that they are able to overcome all obstacles. Retailers are currently celebrating Marvel Heroes Unite across the country.
Marvel Heroes Unite wristbands are available online at https://ncpd.org.za for R30 and bulk orders are available to organisations and schools who would like to support. All funds will go directly to the NCPD.
About the National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD)
NCPD was established in 1939 to shape South Africa into a country where persons with disabilities have access to equal opportunities and rights. For the past 84 years, we have run awareness programmes, advocacy, promoted universal access and facilitated economic participation for and with persons with disabilities. Our mission is to drive equitable social and economic inclusion of persons with disabilities. Our vision is a diverse South African society built on equality and equity, in which persons with disabilities are recognised as an integral part of society. Collaboration for Social and Economic Inclusion for persons with disabilities through our programmes and services. This is all done through service delivery, advocacy and campaigns for awareness and funding.
About The Walt Disney Company EMEA:
The Walt Disney Company has been in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) for over 80 years and employs thousands across the region. Between Disneyland Paris and its other iconic brands, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, 20th Century Studios and ESPN, The Walt Disney Company EMEA entertains, informs and inspires millions of consumers in more than 130 countries through the power of unparalleled storytelling. Disney+, the company’s direct-to-consumer streaming service, is currently available in 60 markets across EMEA.
At The Walt Disney Company, conducting our business in a responsible way and investing in the health and well-being of people and the planet is essential for our continuous growth and development. Disney’s collaboration with NCPD is an example of how we can leverage our storytelling to help make a difference. Our commitments, goals and progress are reported annually in The Walt Disney Company CSR report here. If you would like more information on Disney and its social purpose, you can visit www.thewaltdisneycompany.eu
