Mia le Roux crowned first deaf Miss South Africa

Mia le Roux has made history as the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa. This remarkable achievement comes on the heels of a turbulent competition, marked notably by the withdrawal of Nigerian-born finalist Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina, who stepped back amid a wave of social media bullying and safety concerns.

Chidimma, born in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a mother of Mozambican descent, faced intense scrutiny and harassment over her Nigerian heritage, despite being a South African citizen and meeting all eligibility requirements for the prestigious pageant.

The backlash highlighted a troubling narrative around nationality and acceptance, as many questioned her place in the competition due to her roots.

In a heartfelt statement shared on her Instagram, Chidimma expressed gratitude for the support she received throughout her Miss South Africa journey but ultimately prioritized the safety and well-being of herself and her family. “After much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition,” she wrote, emphasizing her appreciation for the experiences garnered during her time in the spotlight.

Mia le Roux’s crowning comes at a pivotal moment, as she stands not only as a titleholder but as a beacon of hope for those who feel marginalized. In her acceptance speech, she passionately committed to advocating for individuals facing financial hardships and disabilities, echoing her own experiences of overcoming adversity.

Diagnosed with profound hearing loss at just one year old, Mia’s journey to success included receiving a cochlear implant and undergoing years of speech therapy, culminating in her emergence as a confident 28-year-old model and marketing manager.

Mia proudly identifies as a South African deaf woman, stating, “I know what it feels like to be excluded.” Her victory serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and the need for an inclusive society that embraces diversity in all forms.

This year’s Miss South Africa pageant has not only crowned a winner but has ignited conversations about identity, acceptance, and the ongoing fight against prejudice in its many forms.