Together, lets
Build awareness
for all
P- People for
A- Awareness on
D- Disability
I- Issues
Welcome to PADI
Empowering Lives, Inspiring Change
Since 1987, PADI has been a voice for people with physical disabilities, breaking barriers and building a more inclusive world—one story, one seminar, one leader at a time.
Meet Our Founder
DISABILITY RIGHTS LIFETIME ACHIEVER
Ms Sandy Heyman, sadly passed away on 17 October 2024 a day before her 82nd birthday, will not be able to receive her Lifetime Achiever’s Award in person. Prior to her passing, Ms Heyman was informed of this prestigious recognition and expressed both humility and excitement at the honour, reflecting her deep commitment to the disability sector. Her absence leaves a significant void in the disability community, underscoring the profound impact she had throughout her career. Ms Heyman’s dedication and tireless efforts to promote the rights and awareness of persons with disabilities have paved the way for greater inclusivity and understanding within society.
Born with Cerebral Palsy, Ms Heyman dedicated her life to promoting awareness and advocating for people with disabilities. In 1987, she founded People for Awareness on Disability Issues (PADI), an organisation that champions the rights of individuals with disabilities through educational seminars and skills training. PADI employs three persons with disabilities.
MS SANDY HEYMAN, SADLY PASSED AWAY ON 17 OCTOBER 2024 A DAY BEFORE HER 82ND BIRTHDAY
Supported by the Gauteng Department of Social Development, PADI once had branches in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal, although financial constraints led to their closure. Over its 35 years, the organisation has impacted approximately 5 million people through its programmes.
Ms Heyman actively collaborated with other organisations and served as the chairperson of the Gauteng Provincial Association of Disability Organisations (GPAPD). Her significant contributions to the sector have been widely recognised, including completing a 50 km wheelchair walk in 1963 to raise awareness for disability rights. She has also been featured in numerous newspaper articles highlighting her impactful work.
Despite her age, Ms Heyman remained deeply involved in advocating for disability rights through PADI, continuing to provide essential educational
seminars and skills training to support the care and inclusion of persons with disabilities. Her legacy will continue to inspire future advocates and organisations in their pursuit of equality and empowerment for persons disabilities and influence the sector for years to come.
Awareness That Transforms
PADI is here to shine a light on disability issues, empower individuals, and foster independence through education and action.
Getting Involved
Interested in getting involved or hosting a seminar? Contact us to arrange an interactive session for groups up to 70 at your venue—school, lecture hall, or conference room. We ensure everyone can participate and connect. Our office also hosts seminars for up to 12, perfect for corporate teams seeking a distraction-free environment. This transformative experience benefits all aspects of life—work, school, and beyond!
