Mia le Roux’s victory marks a significant step forward in inclusivity and representation, inspiring countless others by breaking down barriers and challenging perceptions.
As she embarks on her reign, Mia’s story is one of resilience, determination, and the power of embracing one’s unique identity.
In this interview, we delve into her journey, the challenges she’s overcome, and her vision for the future as a role model for all South Africans.
IOL: “What made you decide to enter the world of beauty pageants and tell me about the journey?”
Mia: “I noticed that there was a change in inclusivity, women who were not previously included were entering, giving them the platform to make change in South Africa. I had always felt excluded and had to fight for my space. I took the chance in order to inspire and make a change to pave the way for those who have previously been excluded.”
IOL: “How difficult were your school years growing up in Oudtshoorn?”
Mia: “I was in a mainstream school and overall it was hard as I felt alienated. It’s not that the children were mean to me, but they didn’t know how to relate to me and didn’t give me a chance, so they avoided me. I was a lonely child lonely and very shy.”
IOL: “You have mentioned that you never felt you were good enough but then you decided that you are enough - what made that change happen for you?”
Mia: “There wasn’t any special moment. It’s just when you've been brought down so many times, as I had, felt unworthy for so long, I decided that I have big dreams and that I had to fight for them. It's about my journey and what's best for me and my courage to fight for what I want.”
IOL: “How difficult for you is it in society and social environments - do people pick up cues or do you have to explain that you have a hearing impediment?”
Mia: “When I’m in a new environment and I don’t know anyone, I have to use my voice and tell them to face me and only one person to speak at a time. Fortunately, I have very good friends and a wonderful boyfriend. They take on the role of being my guardian and are protective over me.”
IOL: “Tell us about your boyfriend.”
Mia: “My boyfriend is a wonderful special person. He is dyslexic and has ADHD. He is an incredibly hard-working man with a strong work ethic. His neurodiversity makes him special and beautiful. He is extremely creative and patient and thinks outside of the box.”
IOL: “You lip read - how difficult is it when you are surrounded by people who are speaking different languages - which you will experience when you represent us at Miss Universe?”
Mia: “I don’t think it will be more difficult to communicate as many people speak different languages. The challenge will be to have someone next to me to repeat what is being said - as they don’t usually allow for interpreters, but we will address that with the Miss Universe organisers when the time comes.”
IOL: “Will you take an interpreter with you when you travel internationally?”
Mia: “Yes, we are discussing that, but we have not made any plans as yet, as I am only three days into my reign as Miss South Africa.”
IOL: “You are now in an immensely powerful position to educate South Africans on interacting better with hearing challenges. You have said: ‘My advocacy for my year of reign is inclusivity. I want to create a sense of belonging for everyone who felt excluded’.
“Tell us what your plans are for the next year and are there any particular charities you would like to champion?”
Mia: “I would like to see captions on news bulletins - to have access to know what is happening and to empower people who are deaf. I am starting to discuss workshops in schools with principals to teach people how to be inclusive at school and CEO’s about different types of exclusion, It’s going to be a project for life and becoming Miss South Africa is setting the foundation for me.
“I am not supporting one particular charity, but would like to work with many, focusing on rural areas. As I am from Oudtshoorn, I want to start there - in my home town.”
IOL: “Soon you will driving a Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé and residing in a luxurious apartment at Brookfield at Royal in Kensington - how do you feel about that?”
Mia: “It’s a lot to absorb - I’m soaking it in and processing it and am so grateful to be able to be living the life of Miss South Africa.”
IOL Lifestyle