Prudence Mabhena appointed UNICEF goodwill ambassador

The appointment will see her work closely with UNICEF on issues of advocacy to protect children from all forms of violence against particularly children with disabilities.
Prudence was herself born with a condition called arthrogryphosis which has confined her to a wheelchair.
In a statement, UNICEF said: “Prudence has been given this befitting appointment in recognition of her genuine commitment to communicating strong and clear messages advocating the rights of children with different forms of disability.”
In being appointed the National Goodwill Ambassador, she joins music legend, Oliver Mtukudzi, who three months ago was appointed as the Regional Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF for using music to highlight issues affecting children in Zimbabwe and the region.
UNICEF country representative, Peter Salama, said: “This appointment is in recognition of Prudence’s bold endeavours to use her vocal talent to speak on behalf of millions of Zimbabwean children. Her voice has provoked positive actions for children and has helped move UNICEF’s work in Zimbabwe forward.”
Her music reflects on the neglect by her parents she experienced because of her condition and encourages love and protection for all children regardless of their physical condition.
In her Oscar-winning documentary film, Music by Prudence, she relives her many hardships in life to encourage and empower young people living with disabilities.
The documentary is about herself and offers messages of hope through their music, despite being neglected by family members, discrimination and living in poverty.
It scooped the best prize for a short documentary at the 2010 Academy Awards held in Los Angeles, the United States.
In accepting the appointment, Prudence said she was “humbled” by the appointment and “accept the responsibilities” which the appointment demands of her.
Since 2005, Prudence has performed as lead vocalist of Liyana Band, an Afro-fusion group composed of children with different forms of disabilities. The group has toured Sweden, Holland and Belgium.