Mia Le Roux, a deaf woman, became the first deaf Miss South Africa. She hopes her victory will inspire others who feel excluded to achieve their dreams. Le Roux aims to help those facing financial or disability-related challenges.
The competition was marked by controversy when finalist Chidimma Adetshina withdrew. Adetshina faced criticism and allegations related to her Nigerian origin and her mother’s identity. This controversy brought attention to Afrophobia, a form of xenophobia targeting other Africans in South Africa.
Adetshina, born in South Africa to Nigerian and South African parents, withdrew after an investigation by the Home Affairs Ministry raised concerns about her mother’s identity.
Le Roux, who uses a cochlear implant, shared her personal experiences with hearing loss and expressed her pride in representing deaf people in South Africa. She emphasized her desire to break down barriers and inspire others.
