Music By Prudence

About the Project

Music By Prudence is the uplifting story of a Zimbabwean singer-songwriter Prudence Mabhena, 21, who was born severely disabled. Her arms are twisted and useless. Without legs, she has never walked. As a child she was told she was useless, no better than an ant. But by the time she is 21, she has overcome discrimination, rejection and poverty. She is transformed.

Sunrise over the bush. A fresh morning star spilling vitality over scrambling, dry rocks. The African plain: supple and green. Clouds (celestial rapids) racing over an otherwise halcyon sky. Against these, the voice of a woman: clear and strong. “Liyana,” she sings. “Yes,” they respond. “Where are you?” she calls. “We are here,” they answer. “Come,” she beckons. “We are coming.” Her voice is stirring, but also still, in contrast to the rushing sky. It’s the voice of a leader, someone in a place of power and wisdom and uncommon peace. Then into the picture rolls its owner: a young African woman in a wheelchair - Prudence. Her arms are twisted and useless. Without legs, she has never walked. The movie’s final scene is a concert by Liyana. The crowd applauds and whistles, then the screen darkens, leaving only Prudence’s lustrous, smiling face. Recalling the opening sequence, her face is in perfect symmetry to the African sky, rushing and streaming towards hope.

The Fledgling Fund Impact

The Fledgling Fund is proud to provide audience engagement support for Music By Prudence. This powerful story is relevant all over the world as those with disabilities not only fight to be recognized, but struggle for their human rights. Prudence's story is one not of despair, but one of joy and hope that we can all connect to and empathize with. We are excited to watch as the audience engagement campaign unfolds and Prudence and the filmmakers take this story to those who need it most and those who can begin to make changes.