In a brave expression of transparency, Miss South Africa Mia le Roux has opened up about her withdrawal from the Miss Universe Pageant:
South Africa (21 November 2024) — “Thank you so much for all of your kind wishes, your support and your prayers. I really do appreciate it. And I do believe in the spirit of Ubuntu,” shared a brave Mia le Roux as she started what we’re sure was not an easy video to record.
Last week, Miss South Africa withdrew from the Miss Universe Pageant for reasons related to health concerns. All eyes were on Mia as she stepped away from the coveted stage.
While many shared messages of love, concern and support; it’s no small feat to withdraw so suddenly from such a highly publicised event. In situations like this, speculation ensues, as does unfortunate cases of bullying. Not to mention; the pressure we’re sure Mia felt in the midst of it all.
But, this Miss South Africa is nothing if not brave. As such, she decided to do one of the bravest things a person can do—be fully transparent.
Mia decided not to leave matters vague and opened up to South Africa in a way that has left so many proud!
In her message, Mia explained her experience with vertigo, a dizzying experience and something she experienced in Mexico where the Miss Universe competition unfolded.
Balance and vertigo go hand-in-hand, and when one has a hearing impairment, there is a good chance one will have vertigo. As most know, Mia has a hearing impairment.
“It’s very intense and very pronounced and can also cause major issues with your balance,” Mia explained.
“Mentally I was very strong. I was ready, but physically my body was taking a lot of strain and I even had to seek medical help in Mexico City. And even after the medical help, my condition still wasn’t improving.
“On the night of the preliminary competition, I continued to push myself and I was ready in my national costume to showcase it proudly. But my body was just saying no and my vertigo intensified and became unmanageable ” she furthered.
Mia explained that backstage, she kept falling and eventually couldn’t stand securely without support. She soon found herself in urgent conversation with the production personnel as she did not feel she would be able to walk on stage safely.
Most of us are intimidated by stages, but just imagine the fear of knowing you will likely fall!
“I had to very quickly realise and be at peace with the fact that this was not the road that was meant for me.”
In an emotive manner, Mia confided that stepping away was not an easy choice; especially because she wanted to represent all the people who never thought they could shine on a platform like Miss South Africa or Miss Universe.
After visiting a specialist in Mexico, Mia explains that her condition has gotten a lot better. With time to think on her side and support from the Miss SA organisation, she was able to reflect on a much bigger conversation—accessibility.
“I am proud to be differently abled. And it is not enough to just open doors, but we need to have systems in place in order to foster true inclusivity,” she shared.
Mia adds that she hopes her experience will educate the world of pageantry and beyond in making spaces more truly accessible to all.
“I will keep fighting for myself and for everyone with dreams and passions who lack the systems to achieve them. Together we can create new standards and new norms and I am so proud to still be your Miss South Africa.”—Mia le Roux.
Mia has made South Africa enormously proud with her decision to be so transparent; inspiring more of us to push past the fear of judgement in the spirit of something that unites people far more—beautiful vulnerability.
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