The Visually-Impaired Cultural Association (VICAG) was launched on Friday at the National Library.
The objectives of the organisation are to foster cultural relationships with other visually impaired persons; to advocate and inspire positive change in attitude among visually impaired persons and other; and to bond with persons who have similar interest in other countries.
At the launch, Labour Minister Manzoor Nadir urged the members of the executive to work for the common good of everyone in the association and try to make it a viable one. While noting that there will be challenges along the way, he said that the members have the ability to overcome the challenges. Further, he pledged the support of government. “Work hard, launch a good organisation and government will stand firmly behind you,” he added.
Lawrence Hanays, Chairman of VICAG, said it was a memorable day for members to realise a dream. Vice-Chairman Norma Callender said the group arose out of the need for an association that caters to the needs of the visually-impaired. She said it presents a chance for young people to become involved in dance, song, art and drama as a form of expressing themselves and a means of generating income for its members.
She urged that persons not focus on the disability rather the ability, and she appealed for support in the organisation’s activities.
In addition to Hanays and Callender, the other members of the steering committee are: Lillieth Clemonds, Secretary; Winston Stewart, Treasurer; Dorothy Yaw, Assistant Secretary/Treasurer; Camille Basdeo, and Savitri Chacturgan, Committee Members.
