By Memory Mudzani
The Albinism Dare to Dream Initiative says it has begun preparations for this year’s International Albinism Awareness Day (IAAD), with a focus on promoting dignity, confidence and inclusion for people living with albinism.
The organisation’s executive director, Brenda Mudzimu, said the 2026 theme, “Proudly in My Skin,” seeks to encourage self-acceptance and challenge stigma.
“The theme is about helping people with albinism to embrace who they are without shame or fear. It focuses on restoring confidence, dignity and self-worth in a society where many have been made to feel different or less worthy,” Mudzimu said in an interview.
She said the organisation is implementing programmes aligned with the theme, including the Mr and Miss Albinism Zimbabwe 2026 pageant, empowerment workshops, advocacy campaigns and community outreach initiatives.
“Through these platforms, we are promoting visibility and celebrating identity. Our programmes are designed to remind persons with albinism that they should not feel compelled to apologise for their skin tone,” she said.
Mudzimu noted that the theme was chosen to promote inclusion and address persistent challenges faced by people with albinism, including discrimination and harmful stereotypes.
“Many people with albinism in Zimbabwe continue to face rejection and exclusion. Some children grow up feeling isolated due to societal attitudes,” she said.
She added that barriers such as stigma, misinformation, limited access to healthcare and unemployment remain prevalent.
“As an organisation, we are addressing these challenges through community education, mentorship programmes and advocacy for access to essential services such as sunscreen and eye care,” Mudzimu said.
She said initiatives like the pageant are aimed at building confidence among young people with albinism and promoting leadership.
Mudzimu called on communities to play an active role in fostering inclusion.
“Communities can contribute by treating people with albinism with respect, challenging myths and creating equal opportunities. Lasting change requires collective effort from families, schools, workplaces and society at large,” she said.
International Albinism Awareness Day is commemorated annually on 13 June to raise awareness about the rights and challenges of people living with albinism.
