On the 12th of July it was an important day when it comes to the modelling calendar in South Africa.As all eyes were on the Southern African country,which was hosting Miss and Mr Deaf World Pageant.It was the first time for the pageant organisers to host Mr Deaf World as previously only Mrs Deaf World Pageant was hosted.
Phumulela Mapukata prominently known by his family and friends as Purrah,who derives from South Africa made history by becoming the first ever Mr Deaf World.
Phumulela is a 24 year old model who won the Public Choice category during the 2017,Mr Deaf South Africa.
He grew up in Idutywa in Eastern Cape,South Africa. In a family of 5 children,him being the youngest and the only child who was deaf.
He said the most challenging part during the contest was communication. As countries across the globe have different sign languages this became difficult for him when it came to communication with other models and people around him.
"Communication was a real challenge because every country have their own sign language which made it difficult to understand each other,"he informed.
Despite all odds he managed to come out as the winner.
He however said it wasn't in his mind that he will be announced as the winner.
"I never expected to be called out as the winner,as I thought that Ukraine and China both had higher chances of ending up as winners Mr Deaf Europe and Mr Deaf Asia.
"I was nervous before the finale pageant but my spirit was still good when they called my name,I was shocked and I was at a loss for words.Since it all sinked in now,I am very happy and proud to achieve this honour,"clarified Phumulela.
As for words of inspiration,he encouraged the deaf community not to give up in their dreams but to look forward in achieving their goals.
And he added up that he hopes to be an inspiration to his future successor.
"My message to the Deaf is to thank you all for all the support so far. It does not matter where you come from or what your circumstances are you can unexpectedly rise to the top like I did if you work towards your goals.
"Self-believe and have goals in your life to work towards it and achieve it. God has plans for your life, you must just trust Him and His ways with your life," encouraged Phumulela.
Lastly he thank the MDSA (Mr Deaf South Africa) and
Tourism Friendly for the sponsorship and support they gave him.
By Rubaya Tapiwa
No comments:
Post a Comment