August 12, 2024: A 28 year old woman has become the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa after a divisive competition. Mia Le Roux, who was diagnosed with profound hearing loss when she was aged one, expressed her hope in her victory speech that her success will inspire those who feel excluded to pursue their ‘wildest dreams, just like I am’.

She also said that she wished to help those who were ‘financially excluded or differently able’.

Ls Le Roux was declared the pageant winner after finalist Chidimma Adetshina, aged 23, withdrew due to criticism regarding her Nigerian origin and allegations regarding her mother’s identity.