Le Roux Becomes First Deaf Woman To Win Miss South Africa 

Mia Le Roux has created history by becoming the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa.

Her victory comes after a tumultuous competition marred by controversy.

During the pageant, one of the contestant, Chidimma Adetshina, withdrew from the pageant following allegations of identity fraud leveled against her mother.

The incident sparked a national debate about online harassment and xenophobia.

In a powerful acceptance speech, Ms. Le Roux expressed her hope that her win would inspire those who feel marginalized to pursue their dreams. She pledged to advocate for individuals facing financial hardship and disabilities.

Le Roux’s triumph is a beacon of hope and inclusivity, casting a spotlight on the challenges faced by many in South African society.

She narrated her ordeal as a victim of “black-on-black hate”, highlighting a particular strain of xenophobia in South Africa known as “afrophobia”.

The beauty pageant, 28 years old, was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and has a cochlear implant to help her perceive sound.

She said it had taken two years of speech therapy before she was able to say her first words.

Roux a model and marketing manager said: “I am a proudly South African deaf woman and I know what it feels like to be excluded.

“I know now that I was put on this planet to break boundaries and I did it tonight.”