Aletta Shikololo
Abraham Kashongwi, also called DJ Pan, believes a wheelchair cannot dictate what the future holds for him. Currently celebrating the achievement of 32 000 followers on his Instagram account @Djpan_rna, DJ Pan who describes himself as “just a cool guy in a wheelchair”, runs a mini record label named Pan Music Production, where he produces music, makes and sells beats, graphic designs, and photography.
He has garnered a lot of attention from various local artists and according to him, DJ Chronic and Andrew on the Beat are his daily motivation.
“Disability and music are two things that have kept me pushing for better. According to my condition, I am unable to get a job but that hasn’t stopped me from creating my own. I didn’t complete my school as I got injured after I completed Grade 10, and just lost hope in school,” he said.
Hailing from the Omusati region, DJ Pan is also working on an EP set to be released later this year. He said challenges mean nothing to him; he accepts what he cannot change and move on.
“My passion matters. People have reached out to me about my career choice, telling me how amazing I am and how they would love to work with me. I believe one day I will be on stage holding the producer of the year award.”
DJ Pan is encouraging young people to never stop believing in themselves, no matter the condition or how empty their pockets are.
He expressed that young people who live with disabilities lack confidence and faith, and said anyone can become what they want to become as long as they work hard, because nothing comes easy.
“When I started this studio, my dream and that of my friends Black Reign Crew was to get our youth off the streets and focus them on writing and making music.
I produce at least two free beats a week and I’m willing to arrange a free studio session for any kid who’s willing to stay off the streets and change their lives to become part of my family and chase their music-making dreams.” – ashikololo@nepc.com.na