By REGINALD KANYANE
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Women Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Lindelwa Dunjwa, expresses a heartfelt word of congratulations to Mia le Roux (28), who was crowned as the first hearing-impaired Miss South Africa 2024.
Dunjwa said le Roux’s victory will remain as an indelible symbol of hope and inspiration to the community of persons with disabilities in South Africa. She said the victory will inevitably encourage other young South Africans with disabilities to discover their gifts and talents to pursue their aspirations without hesitation or intimidation from those who are able-bodied.
“The committee noted the challenges around Miss SA 2024, but it appreciates that a right contestant triumphed and was crowned in the end and became the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa.
“That was a historic and memorable development in South Africa. The victory has become the victory of the entire community of persons with disabilities. As the committee, we also declare our pride about Mia,” said Dunjwa.
She further said le Roux was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and has a cochlear implant to help her perceive sound. Dujwa added that as the committee, they look forward to her advocacy and the positive change she will inspire during her reign.
“Your journey encourages everyone to pursue their dreams confidently and foster a more inclusive world for all,” said Dunjwa.
The Guardian 