13/09/2024
"For the first time, I could take my daughter to school on my own. I felt like a real mom."
This is the type of feedback that keeps motivating me to continue "Driving Dreams" through my non-profit, Nicky's Drive. When I started in 2012, I spoke to other non-profits and the biggest challenges were always FUNDING. I made a decision to keep Nicky's Drive small, self-funding through my keynote talks and the generosity of many corporates who believed in me and what Nicky's Drive offers to people with disabilities in South Africa: the funding of locally-produced & fitted hand controls.
It's not always easy. There are many projects that are beyond our scope or financial means. It's hard to say no when there is so much need. I know first-hand about how accessible transport is lacking in our country. An adapted car (seen as a luxury to many) translates to freedom when it comes to work opportunities, medical appointments and family responsibilities.
Nicky's Drive has given a lot to me too: a great sense of pride when I see the smiles on the faces of our funding recipients; a higher purpose and meaning to give back to the disabled community (who haven't always had the opportunities that I did); and lastly, it has given me a VOICE. I'm a Clinical Psychologist and prior to 2012, cringed at the idea of sharing my story on stage. I preferred to listen and ask "How does that make you feel?" π I knew that the only way to support Nicky's Drive was to step into a vulnerable space and share that story. I am grateful for that. β€