Local beauty queen stands up for the deaf community
My goal for this event is to bridge the gap between two communities to learn our deaf culture and our beautiful language - SASL.
Monequ Edwards (23), from Primrose, is an advocate for the deaf community’s rights and inclusion.
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She attends Digital School of Marketing and occasionally helps out at her father’s business.
Volunteering is close to her heart.
She is a finalist for Miss Deaf South Africa 2023, a platform she utilises to campaign for equal rights for the deaf community.
“I am excited to participate this year and assist others. I have always wanted to compete in pageants and give back to the deaf community.
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“As a finalist for the pageant, I take pride in advocating for the rights and inclusion of the deaf community.
“I strongly believe in promoting awareness and equal opportunities for deaf individuals, as they deserve recognition, respect, and full inclusion in all various of society,” said Monequ.
“My main focus is accessibility. It is critical to break down communication barriers and provide deaf people with access to information, education, employment, and social opportunities,” said Monequ.
“Advocating for accessibility, which means that we can build a more inclusive society in which deaf people can actively participate and contribute their talents and abilities.
“This can be accomplished through the use of sign language interpreters, subtitles, and other assistive technologies,” she said.
“I have taken part in a variety of charitable activities, including serving in the Itemba Feeding Scheme.
“I also spend time with deaf elders at Thembalami Care Centre and Max Ordman Deaf Association, and visiting MCK Special School in Lenasia.
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During these visits, I volunteered my time to engage with these individuals and provide support. I also donated second-hand clothes and prepared homemade treats to bring smiles to their faces.
On May 6, I organised a fundraising event to help cover my transport and accommodation expenses for the upcoming publicity week and gala night of the final pageant in September 2023.”
Monequ said that her mission is to raise deaf awareness, assist and inspire people.
“I also want to assist deaf entrepreneurs in navigating the difficulties of being an entrepreneur.
We can promote small businesses in our community and facilitate networking. It is critical to show both deaf and hearing people that there are no boundaries to what deaf people can achieve.
“Following my pageant, I am committed to assist deaf individuals in overcoming obstacles. I want to motivate them by giving motivational speeches, encouraging them not to give up and that their ambitions are achievable.
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However, my dedication does not stop there. By giving back to the community and creating kindness and support, I hope to aid hearing people and inspire others to do the same. I want to make a difference in the lives of both deaf and hearing people.
“That is exactly how my family raised me. They taught me to be courteous to everyone and to appreciate what I had since you never know how much other people are going through.
“That’s how my family became accustomed to assisting others. When people are feeling hopeless, I want to make them feel alive again. I wish to encourage children to spread positive energy to others,” she said.
“The recent recognition of South African Sign Language (SASL) as the 12th official language is a big step towards including everyone, preserving culture, and protecting linguistic rights.”
