WeeklySA_AdminPOISE: For the upcoming pageant in Mexico, Le Roux looks forward to showcasing to the world the country’s core values of innovation, excellence and passion for craftsmanship…
By Priscilla Malinga
Miss South Africa Mia le Roux says she has given it her all in her preparations ahead of the 73rd Miss Universe pageant to be held in Mexico on November 16.
She was speaking at her farewell which was held at The Maslow Hotel in Sandton, with Le Roux’s doting parents, Schalk and Liesel, in attendance.
She describes the days of her reign as having been full of surprises, involving waking up every day to a scheduled routine and her loving every bit of it.
For his part, Le Roux‘s long-time boyfriend Luke Ten Oever has welcomed all opportunities she is getting, allowing her the time to rise and shine and chase all her dreams she deserves.
“Although all I want to do is to take her fishing, I understand the worlds needs her right now and all I can do is to support her,” says Ten Oever.
The media had the opportunity to view some of the special outfits created for her to wear during her time in Mexico by Africa Fashion International (AFI), which is the official fashion sponsor for Miss South Africa 2024. AFI has been a catalyst for progress in African fashion since it was founded in 2007 by Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe.
“This partnership between AFI and the Miss South Africa Organisation, both under the Motsepe Group of Companies, is a reflection of our commitment to celebrating African talent and showcasing it to a global audience,” said Motsepe.
The designers used Broke fabric because they wanted to go for elegance since they wanted Mia to look the part. They have been designing for about eight years and they had fun creating costumes for the Miss SA pageant.
Le Roux says that she is mentally and emotionally prepared for the rigours of the Miss Universe pageant. She is happy to be doing something she is passionate about, making differently abled communities inclusive.
As she giggles, she says she still tries to have normal days as she still wakes up in her pyjamas and bathes and washes her hair, even put on her own make up. The difference now is that her days are busy and there is always something to do. She misses waking up and lazing around, but she wouldn’t change what she is doing and what she is campaigning for, for anything.
“AFI Atelier’s wardrobe for Mia at Miss Universe showcases our core values of innovation, excellence and a passion for craftsmanship. Through this synergy we are reinforcing our dedication to empowering women, while shining a spotlight on Africa’s rising influence in global fashion, of which Miss Universe is a great platform for both,” added Motsepe.
The two outfits shown at the event – both by the AFI Atelier designers – will be worn by Le Roux in the days leading to the finale.
“The Miss South African Organisation team and I have been working on every aspect so I can be an elevated version of myself,” she told the gathered audience. I feel incredibly proud and honoured by this opportunity and privilege that has been entrusted to me. I cannot wait to highlight the beautiful diversity of our country and show that it is our biggest strength.”
She says she is trying not to feel too much pressure as she walks in the footsteps of previous Miss South Africa title holders on the Miss Universe stage and as the first ever deaf contestant to compete.
“My parents were unsure if I would ever speak and now I am using the very same voice to be heard like I have never been heard before. I am speaking for every excluded individual out there with the goal to bring a future of hope and opportunity to them. I am going to do my best to make them, and all South Africans, proud.”
She will also continue to shine the spotlight on her Miss South Africa advocacy campaign Mia Le Roux’s Movement, where she will be working with government, big corporations and NGOs to raise money for cochlear implants and continue promoting inclusivity among a number of projects. Bring it home South Africa is routing for you.
Miss South Africa is presented by Weil Entertainment in association with Sun International. S3 is the official broadcast partner.
