South African viewers are eagerly waiting for the upcoming Miss Universe pageant, where Mia le Roux, the reigning Miss South Africa, will make history as the first deaf contestant in the competition’s 73-year existence. S3 channel head Sane Zondi noted that following the huge viewership for Le Roux’s Miss South Africa crowning, with 1.8 million people tuning in, expectations are high. “Viewers have very high hopes that she will make the country proud and make the world once again take note of South Africa,” Zondi said, according to IOL.
This year, Miss Universe will be hosted by U.S. TV personality Mario Lopez, and the commentary will feature Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, Miss Universe 2020 Andrea Meza, Puerto Rican TV personality Carlos Adyan, and Brazilian actress and former Miss Universe contestant Julia Gama. Contestants from 127 countries will compete, bringing an incredible showcase of talent, culture, and ambition.
Le Roux is currently rehearsing in Mexico, where she’s soaking up the vibrant culture and preparing for the much-anticipated national costume reveal. “It has been a jam-packed schedule, but I have enjoyed seeing some of Mexico and how beautiful it is, experiencing some of its culture, and meeting contestants from around the world,” she shared. “I am working hard but also taking the time to savour every moment and memory. I want to thank South Africans for their messages of support—it has meant the world to me, and I will be carrying all of you with me when I walk on the Miss Universe stage.”
Miss South Africa Organisation CEO Stephanie Weil expressed pride in Le Roux’s journey, emphasising the powerful message of inclusivity she brings to Miss Universe. “She is an inspiration as she continues to represent every excluded individual with the goal to bring a future of hope and opportunity to them,” Weil said. “We are rooting for her to take the crown.”
