Selorm’s journey: defying odds to take up space in the Digital world

Selorm (left) with his Trainer

Thirty-two year old Selorm Tsivanyo is defying limitations to his physical movement by taking on innovative entrepreneurial skills in hopes of opening new doors to better his livelihood.

Selorm, a native of Abutia in the Volta Region, where he spent the last 14 years working as a shoe repairer, has Cerebral Palsy.

He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at an early age.

Cerebral Palsy, a neurological disorder is caused by a non-progressive brain injury or malformation that occurs while the child’s brain is under development. Cerebral Palsy primarily affects body movement and muscle coordination.

Selorm, despite the seeming physical limitations decided to embrace all odds and braze the storms of challenges with agile strength and determination in his journey to becoming an entrepreneur.

Selorm said he envisages a brighter future for himself and has therefore decided to take steps towards achieving the feat.

Today, he joins a host of other young trainees at the Ho Node Hub, where he is receiving training in business and technical skills to enable him build innovative products.

The dreams, hopes and aspirations of people such as Selorm is deemed as a wakeup call for a turnaround in perceptions surrounding persons with disabilities in the country. Several persons with disabilities including celebrated software Engineer, Farida Bedwei, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at one, are shining examples of why such socio-culturally sanctioned limitations should be done away with.

An elated Selorm said he had never felt out of place at Ho Node Hub and has also commended the welcoming environment where he receives daily skills training.

Managing Director of Ho Node Hub, Mr. Courage Asase, said the ‘Tech and Innovation Space’ operates with a no-limit boundary and provides several opportunities for everyone to fill its digital and tech innovations gap.

“We understand that today’s society must strive to create even platform for all persons to access their gifts and talents. That’s a major motivation that binds us to chart a path of more inclusive society “

Mr. Asase said Technological and Digital Innovations were not only exclusive to certain demography but was also a burgeoning ground for supporting talented people with disabilities.

He said with the right motivation, encouragement and opportunity people will thrive in the tech space – regardless of the challenges.