Meet Miss Deaf SA finalist Janie Erasmus

Tell us more about yourself? Who is Janie Erasmus?

I’m a Centurion girl and live with my two dachshunds. I completed matric in Eldoraigne High School after nine years at Sonitus school for children with hearing challenges. I’m a qualified somatologist and currently work in the financial office of a firm. I received my first cochlear implant at the age of 9 and the second one at 18 years – it made a huge difference in my life – so much that I can be independent today.

Why did you decide to enter Miss Deaf SA?

I have always dreamt of being Miss Deaf South Africa – this title will give me the platform to influence, educate and work for the deaf community – building the bridge to the hearing community and thereby creating harmony for all of us.

What do you hope to achieve with the title if you win?

I want to be an ambassador for the deaf community in South Africa and at the International Miss Deaf competition. My mission would be to educate the hearing community in order to have a better understanding of people with hearing disabilities – to educate corporates in terms of their service delivery to the large deaf community of our country – creating an equal society

What motivates you to keep on going during tough times?

I never give up. I entered the Miss Deaf South Africa competition twice before and on both occasions I was crowned 1st princess – hopefully this year is third time lucky.

What is your top fashion tip?

Your eyebrows frames your face – very important.

What is your favourite spa in Pretoria?

Bella Luna Spa in Centurion and Desire Skin Intelligence in Moreleta Park – they are absolutely wonderful!

Are you involved in any charities?

I’ve trained deaf girls and helped them obtain a certificate in beauty – teaching them how to do massages, make-up, waxing and facials. This certificate gave them the ability to obtain stable jobs in the beauty industry and I would love to be involved in more of these ventures in future.

What philosophy do you live by?

Everything is possible – as long as I try and make a start.

What legacy do you hope to leave behind?

I want people to remember me as a person who was beautiful from within – who cares for people in need and made a difference in the lives of many people

How can people vote for you and follow your journey?

To vote for me. sms MDS 07 to 47439. Voting line closes 25 September. People can find me on the Miss Deaf South Africa website under 2015 Finalists and on Facebook Janie Erasmus. Please like my photo – I will really appreciate the support!

*The judging for Miss Deaf SA kicks off on on 26 September with a week long publicity tour, culminating in a crowning and gala evening that takes place on 2 October in Pretoria.