The Miss South Africa 2024 pageant left South Africans teary-eyed as Mia Le Roux, who is differently abled, was crowned the new Miss SA. The heartfelt moment between the newly crowned queen and host Bonang Matheba was just the icing on the cake.
Just moments after Mia’s crowning, Bonang Matheba, ever the professional, approached her with a series of questions. Holding her hands, Bonang asked, ‘Are any members of your family here with you?’.
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When Mia replied, ‘I didn’t hear you,’ Bonang was quick to adjust. Guided to face Mia directly so she could read her lips, Bonang’s sincerity and adaptiveness were praised by viewers. Mia, with her remarkable lip-reading skills, answered deftly, showcasing her resilience.
Mia Le Roux made history as the first deaf Miss South Africa in the pageant’s history. In an interview, Mia mentioned, ‘The challenge I face is that I communicate differently, and I need to be catered for in how I communicate.’
Indeed, she highlighted the importance of one-on-one interactions and clear speech. With a cochlear implant and specialized technology linked to her smartphone, Mia is well-equipped for forthcoming interviews.
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South Africans were incredibly moved by the touching interaction between Bonang and Mia. Commenters said, ‘This moment between Bonang and Mia will go down in history as one of the most memorable moments in our country.’ Another added, ‘Bonang is so professional in all her work; this is beautiful.’
Indeed, the image of the two women holding hands and connecting deeply continues to warm hearts across the nation.
It’s safe to say that Bonang Matheba and Mia Le Roux created a moment we will never forget. Here’s to many more moments of inclusion, understanding, and breaking barriers!
