ARMAND GROENEWALD MDSA JOURNEY

When my mom was pregnant with me, she worked in a clothing store. There was a woman who had German measles (rubella), and my mom also became sick. Later, when I was born, I was deaf.

I grew up and attended several schools for the Deaf and hard of hearing, including Carel du Toit School, De La Bat School, Sonitus School, and Transoranje School.

I was born hard of hearing — I could hear and speak and wore two hearing aids. When I turned 40, I lost hearing in my left ear and decided to get a cochlear implant, which has helped me a lot.

I’ve learned so much, especially about speech and sound. I love listening to music and singing along — my favourite is gospel music, because it touches my heart and gives me hope. 🎶

I chose to participate in modelling because I want to make Deaf awareness grow across South Africa, not just in my hometown. I want to show everyone that Deaf people have talent and can achieve great things, just like anyone else. My goal is to be an example that Deaf people can do anything if they believe in...