Mia le Roux has been crowned Miss South Africa 2024, capturing the hearts of the nation with her grace, intelligence, and passion for social causes.
Le Roux, who was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one, has made history by becoming the first hearing-impaired winner in the competition's 66-year history.
University of Witwatersrand Centre for deaf studies' Claudine Storbeck says le Roux is raising awareness for those with hearing impairments.
“It's brought to the forefront just how big of a population of hard of hearing and deaf people there are and that they are not treated equally in our society”.
Western Cape Director for Deaf SA, Jabaar Cassiem Mohamed said it was heartwarming to see a person living with a disability enter the pageant.
“I could not believe that a deaf person was entered into the competition and also amazed that she won. It’s quite an amazing achievement and I’m quite very proud that South Africa sign language just becoming official.
“There are a lot of changes coming and the country is becoming more and more inclusive. So, I’m very, very happy for Mia that she has won the title of Miss South Africa,” he said.
On her crowning le Roux said; “Today, it is my turn to be your community, to be a voice for those who, like me, have experienced the challenges of being different and feeling excluded.
“I am here to serve as your representative, to champion the causes that matter to South Africans and to create a space where everyone can shine in their unique, beautiful way” .
The public reaction to le Roux’s win has been overwhelmingly positive, with social media buzzing with praise for the new queen.
Many have lauded her for her authenticity and dedication to making a difference in society.
MinniCrystal: “Congratulations..Mia Le Roux (Miss South Africa) we are so proud of you and making the deaf community proud”
Miss SA 2020, Shudofhadzo Musida said: “Congratulations Mia❤️ Thank you for leading the conversation on how the included can be more of inclusive of the excluded.
“We look forward to learning from you and basking in your beautiful aura”️.
Miss SA 2022 Ndavi Nokeri said: “Congratulations Mia ❤️👑 You are breaking barriers and it’s only the beginning ! So proud and excited for your journey”
Her fellow contestants have also expressed their support, with Thandiwe Mokoena saying: "Mia is truly deserving of this title. She’s worked so hard, and I know she’ll make us all proud."
As the newly crowned Miss South Africa, Mia Le Roux is set to embark on a journey that will see her promoting causes close to her heart, and preparing to represent South Africa at the Miss Universe pageant.
IOL Lifestyle