Living with Parkinson’s and Dystonia, Brian Malinga Refuses to Give Up on His Future

Photo Credit: Brian Sakhile Malinga

From self-taught 3D modelling to advocacy work, Brian Malinga is refusing to let disability stand in the way of his dreams. Now all he needs is one opportunity to show what he can do.

Pretoria, South Africa (05 August 2026) – Many South Africans will agree that securing employment in our country is no walk in the park. For 38-year-old Brian Sakhile Malinga, who lives with Parkinson’s disease and Dystonia, it comes with added barriers.

Though he has worked a few small jobs, including a supporting role as a radio presenter and other temporary opportunities, his heart’s deepest desire has long been to secure a permanent job. And while the job opportunities have been limited, his remarkable resilience is impossible to ignore.

“Since 2022, I have continued applying for jobs without success. Rather than giving up, I decided to keep developing myself,” Brian shares.

“I taught myself new skills, including 3D modelling, music production, sound engineering, digital marketing, and online business. Along the way, I also completed several short courses, including a Software Development learnership. Every course I took, and every project I worked on, was funded using my disability grant.”

He is also currently saving towards doing some repair work on his wheelchair as well as modifying his vehicle so he can drive independently.

“I don’t really know where my strength comes from. Maybe I’m just good at convincing myself of the promise that things will get better,” Brian tells us.

At the heart of his relentless spirit is a genuine desire for stability.

“I am looking for an opportunity where I can build experience, grow professionally, and make a meaningful long-term contribution,” says Brian, who also dreams of owning a home and raising a family one day.

Beyond his personal journey, Brian is a passionate disability advocate. He envisions a South Africa free from poverty and dishonesty. A country where equality is a reality and differently-abled people are fully recognised and valued as human beings.

“Dreams aren’t meant to expire and be abandoned,” Brian says, explaining why he refuses to give up on his own or championing those of the marginalised.

The world may be far from ideal, and navigating it with Parkinson’s disease and Dystonia may be twice as challenging, but Brian continues to fight for the future he knows is possible.

He firmly believes meaningful change starts when employers open their doors to people of all abilities, welcoming disabled people as capable contributors with value to offer.

“I am not asking anyone to lower their standards because of my disability,” Brian says.

“I am simply asking for the chance to demonstrate my abilities. Sometimes, all a person needs is that one single opportunity.”

To get in touch with Brian, connect with him via email at [email protected] or on Facebook or Instagram.