Seychellois crowned second princess at Miss Deaf Africa pageant |24 May 2012

Originally 10 countries were to send contestants to the pageant in South Africa, but on Saturday eight beautiful young women from seven countries – the host country had two contestants – paraded in front of a packed hall of guests, including Seychelles tourism representative for Africa David Germain, during the glamorous event.

Elnette Botha from Western Cape in South Africa was crowned Miss Deaf Africa 2012 while her compatriot Lauren White from Johannesburg received the crown for first princess. 

Speaking on her return in the country earlier this week after the excitement-packed event, Monica said she is so happy and very proud, adding she was not expecting to win any prize.
“I have made my family and my country proud,” she said.

“My achievement clearly shows that deaf people can do a lot and can go very far if they are given the opportunity,” added Monica.

She dedicated her success to her family, her country and all deaf girls who are aspiring to try their luck in the pageant in the future.

She said her plan now is to prepare herself well for the Miss Deaf World pageant coming up in July in the Czech Republic.

As prizes Monica has won a laptop computer, jewellery, perfume, beauty creams and a hamper of other goodies.

Miss Deaf Africa Botha has won a trip to Seychelles, among other prizes.
Monica was accompanied to the pageant by the chairperson of the Association for People with Hearing Impairment (Aphi) Anita Gardner.