By Charmaine Ndlela
South African pride Lisa Msiza, a University of the Free State (UFS) and University of the Witwatersrand alumna, who was crowned Miss Deaf South Africa in October 2024, is preparing to raise the national flag even higher at the Miss + Mister Deaf Universe Pageant in Gallipoli, Italy, on 6 December 2025.
Born in Soweto, Msiza’s journey is defined by academic excellence and unwavering advocacy for Deaf rights.
The upcoming international stage offers her a powerful platform to inspire globally.
Miss + Mister Deaf Universe, a non-profit pageant for Deaf participants, promotes talent, challenges discrimination, and fosters inclusion.
This year, more than 25 contestants from around the world will showcase their abilities.
Msiza’s achievements speak for themselves. In 2022, she was named an Abe Bailey Trust Scholar, exploring culture and politics in the UK and Scotland.
She also became the first Deaf recipient of the Golden Key Award at UFS.
Social impact leader, deaf rights activist and former beauty pageant, Uyanda Sibiya, praised her determination.
“Miss Deaf Lisa Msiza is pursuing more qualifications, not out of ambition but because employers don’t recognise her South African Sign Language–mediated journey,” said Sibiya.
Miss Deaf South Africa Lisa Msiza, accompanied by her family and well-wishers, at OR Tambo International Airport before departing for Italy. PHOTO: Supplied
Msiza expressed deep gratitude to those supporting her dream.
“I am very grateful for this opportunity. It is a dream to stand on the world stage and show the beauty, strength, and talent of the Deaf community. I am excited to meet other women from around the world, share our stories, and do my best for my country. I will try my very best to make South Africa proud,” said Msiza.
Determined to be a role model, she hopes to “offer reassurance that Deaf individuals are not alone in their struggles” and encourage them to chase their aspirations.
As the first Black Miss Deaf South Africa to compete internationally, Msiza aims to push boundaries and hopes to become the first Black global titleholder.
“By using my title, I aim to inspire others in the Deaf community to believe in themselves, pursue their dreams, and break barriers. I also want to educate the public about Deaf culture and the importance of accessibility, community, and understanding,” she said.
“I want to inspire the world and prove that every Deaf person’s dream is possible.”
Miss + Mister Deaf Universe, a non-profit pageant for Deaf participants, promotes talent, challenges discrimination, and fosters inclusion.
Miss Deaf SA Lisa Msiza at OR Tambo International Airport ahead of her departure to Italy. PHOTO: Supplied
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