Since its establishment in 1978, the QuadPara Association of South Africa (QASA) has championed the rights and independence of individuals with spinal cord injuries. With over 35,000 registered members, QASA works tirelessly to ensure that quadriplegics and paraplegics have access to the services, skills, and opportunities needed to live full and independent lives.
QASA’s mission is clear: to develop the full potential of its members through comprehensive support, advocacy, and empowerment initiatives. The organization plays a vital role in influencing disability-related policies and legislation, providing critical peer support, and facilitating employment opportunities.
Core Programs and Services:
- Digital Villages:
QASA partners with industry leaders to offer ICT and vocational training. Digital Villages have been established in key regions including KwaZulu-Natal, Pretoria, and Soweto, aiming to equip members with the skills needed to thrive in today’s digital economy. - Bags of Hope:
In collaboration with Coloplast, QASA distributes post-hospital support kits. These kits help newly injured individuals transition from hospital to home with the necessary tools and information to begin their journey to independence. - Education and Employment Support:
The organization supports its members by providing learnerships and SME promotion programs. It also maintains a comprehensive CV database to connect members with job opportunities, thereby promoting financial independence and career development. - Self-Help Centres:
With 15 regional centers, QASA ensures that members receive localized support in areas ranging from daily living skills to counseling and community integration.
Current Campaign: “Corner to Corner”
QASA is currently spearheading the “Corner to Corner” campaign, an outreach initiative aimed at reducing road-related spinal injuries. This program has organized interactive sessions at petrol stations in Gauteng and the Western Cape, where members engage with the public about road safety. Through this initiative, QASA has not only raised awareness of preventable injuries but has also distributed safety materials, including branded stickers, and secured public pledges to drive safely.
The campaign will be expanded in 2025, targeting newly injured individuals across South Africa. Its goal is to quickly connect these individuals with essential support services, mobility aids, and a network of peers committed to fostering long-term independence.
Why QASA Matters
QASA’s work is critical to the broader disability rights movement in South Africa. By focusing on prevention, peer empowerment, skills development, and strong advocacy, the organization is not only reducing the incidence of new injuries but also building a foundation for a more inclusive and accessible society. Through its modern campaigns and region-wide outreach initiatives, QASA is reshaping the way disability is addressed—transforming lives and empowering communities across the country.
