I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have taken part in Miss Deaf SA for a second time, and honoured to have been named first runner-up this year.
This achievement would not have been possible without the support of my family, friends, sponsors, organisers, and all who encouraged me along the way.
While I would have appreciated greater publicity for Miss, Mrs and Mr Deaf SA, I value the platform it has provided to showcase the talents, abilities, and voices of the deaf community.
As this year marks the final chapter of the pageant, I am both saddened by its closure and grateful to have been part of its legacy.
We were advised that a new pageant will be introduced for future events, and I sincerely hope it will continue the important work of empowering, uplifting, and creating opportunities for the deaf community.
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As a deaf woman, I continue to advocate for greater visibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities in employment and society. Like many others, I have dreams of building a successful career, owning a car, and a home – goals that should be accessible to all, yet remain more difficult to achieve due to communication barriers.
I hope my journey encourages greater awareness and support for deaf individuals and inspires more inclusive workplaces and platforms in the future. Being first runner-up is an honour I cherish, but my greatest hope is that it contributes to lasting positive change for the deaf community in South Africa.
With greater awareness and exposure, we can help open doors for future generations and show that deaf people are capable, hardworking, and deserving of the same opportunities as everyone else.
As one chapter closes and another begins, I wish the new pageant every success. May it continue to shine a light on the deaf community, celebrate our achievements, and create even greater opportunities for those who will follow in our footsteps.
Editor’s note: While the organisers of Miss, Mr & Ms Deaf South Africa could not be reached for comment, Zerelda Albrecht shared an official message that was circulated to all participants, stating that the 2026 gala would mark the final reign of Miss, Mr and Ms Deaf South Africa in its current form.
While this concludes the pageant as it has been known, organisers indicated that winners will continue to represent South Africa internationally, and that a new phase of the initiative is being introduced to create expanded opportunities and a broader platform for the deaf community.
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