Miss Universe South Africa 2024 withdraws from the Miss Universe 2024 pageant ahead of finals night on November 17. Mia Le Roux withdrew from the pageant due to health reasons. The Miss South Africa Organization made the official announcement on Friday.
View this post on Instagram
On Instagram, they wrote, "It is with deep regret that we share the news that Mia Le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024, has had to withdraw from the Miss Universe competition due to health concerns." They added Mia's sentiments in the statement, wherein she said, "I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support from South Africa during my time at Miss Universe. Making this decision has been incredibly challenging, knowing the dreams and hopes that have been placed upon me. However, I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to focus on my health and recovery so that I may continue to serve my country with full strength."
The organization ended the statement by writing, "Mia has shown incredible courage and grace throughout this difficult period. Her health and well-being are our utmost priority, and we stand by her side, dedicated to ensuring she regains her strength ad returns to full health. Our hearts are with her as she takes the necessary steps towards recovery.
Mia made history as the first deaf Miss South Africa
Prior to her withdrawal from the competition, Mia already made history as the first deaf woman to be crowned as Miss South Africa. She was also making waves in the competition due to her advocacy. She used her platform to highlight the experiences of the deaf and hearing impaired. She has a highlight on her instagram titled, "Deaf Education," where she talks about issues like deaf fatigue.
READ MORE: Meet The Miss Universe Candidate Who's Part Of The Deaf Community
In a conversation with Forbes Africa, she revealed that she was diagnosed with her profound hearing loss when she was one year old. She also shared how grateful she was able to get her cochlear implant when she was two years old, after her community pooled the funds for her. This inspired Mia to live her life with purpose, such as pursuing her bid as Miss South Africa.
Mia may have ended her Miss Universe journey, but she's already changed the game and made her mark forever. Mia is also not the first delegate to make an early exit from this edition. On November 1, the Miss Universe organization shared the announcement of Miss Universe Panama Italy Mora's withdrawal.
Miss Universe is set to have their finals night on November 17 at the Arena CDMX in Mexico.
