#ThrowBackThursday: Defying the odds – Janie Erasmus, Miss Deaf World 2016
Janie believed right from the start she had what it took to win.
We take you back one year ago to what made headlines in Newcastle.
This feel-good story will make you proud to be a Newcastillian!
Read full story here: Janie Erasmus, takes on the world
Our very own Newcastle-born beauty queen, Janie Erasmus, made a name for herself last October when she was crowned Miss Deaf South Africa.
She shocked everyone nine months later, on July 16, when she was crowned Miss Deaf World during a ceremony in Prague.
The hours she spent hard at work in modelling and dancing classes as well as exercise in preparation for the pageant, certainly paid off.
Janie believed right from the start she had what it took to win.
Also read: Janie Erasmus, a true home grown beauty
“I had goosebumps when the crown was placed on my head. I felt so proud to be a South African.”
Winning the crown of Miss Deaf SA and Miss Deaf World, boosted her confidence to help realise her dreams and goals of making a difference in the lives of others, she said.
“I have learned several new skills, such as public speaking and how to communicate via social media. I have seen many big doors opening for me, giving me new platforms to change perceptions about deaf people in a hearing society.”
Looking at the future, Janie said once her reign as Miss Deaf World came to an end, she would continue helping others.
