Meet Faeem Karodia (40) of Actonville, a deaf entrepreneur and deaf rights advocate who recently took the title of Mister Deaf International 2025 in the Philippines.

What work do you do?
I’m a self-employed pastry chef, working from home and baking cakes, biscuits and sweetmeats (Indian fudge).

Briefly tell us about your journey to the Philippines and the title of Mister Deaf International 2025
The Miss and Mister Deaf International 2025 pageant was held in Cebu, Philippines, from February 2 to 9. The finale gala evening was on February 7. My journey in Philippines was amazing. I gained good experiences and met deaf people from all over the world. My preparation went well and I enjoyed the support of my deaf friends and close family. The pageant was supposed to be hosted in Italy late last year but was, unfortunately, cancelled. It was then decided to move it to the Philippines in February.

How many contestants were there?
10 contestants – six Miss Deaf International, two Mister Deaf International and two Ms Deaf International. The contestants represented Kenya, Ethiopia, Russia, Thailand, Philippines and South Africa.

What is your experience travelling abroad as a deaf person? What services could improve the lives of the hearing impaired?
I’m very grateful for how we were accommodated abroad. Some people can communicate through sign language or writing down on paper or texting on a phone. I do believe there should be more awareness about Deaf rights and accessibility and that more people should learn international sign language. Access to qualified sign language interpreters would be beneficial but there is technology available on phone apps for deaf to use to communicate. Of more concern is how deaf people get services in emergency situations, like accidents, being robbed or should there be a house fire. We need to get live sign language interpreter services and have access to these 24/7, as well as Video Relay Service telecommunications to enable people with hearing disabilities to communicate via sign language over video. Also, the Deaf community needs better government funding for communication tools. The one in SA, CONVO, is closing due to lack of funding.

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Why do you love living in Benoni?
I’ve lived in Benoni all my life. There are many awesome places nearby. It’s very central to the rest of Ekurhuleni too. We have created good memories in Benoni, such as my cousin’s wedding in Benoni Town Hall.

Which are your favourite places to visit in Benoni and why?
Lakefield Pick n Pay for quick shopping and Korsman Bird Sanctuary for relaxing and walking/running for exercise.

Is there a support network for deaf people in Benoni?
Unfortunately not, but we have regional support through the Ekurhuleni Deaf Association. Their services include job opportunities, social workers and sign language lessons.

Why did you enter this pageant, and others in the past?
It was my dream to win the Mr Deaf SA title. I am passionate about modelling and being a role model to inspire other deaf people. This has been my journey in the Mr Deaf SA pageant – 2020 (cancelled due to the pandemic), 2021 (second place), 2022 (third place), 2023 (second place) and 2024 (won the title). I don’t give up on my dreams because dreams take you on a long journey. Be patient and humble and believe in yourself.

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