Actonville resident advocates for deaf community

Mr Deaf South Africa 2020 finalist Faeem Karodia hopes to change the narrative about deafness.

The 36-year-old is one of 10 finalists in Ms, Mr and Mrs Deaf South Africa (MDSA), an independent deaf empowerment organisation founded in 1995.

Faeem lost his hearing at three months old due to both of his ear nerves being damaged. Despite his disability, he is passionate about baking and runs his own business as a pastry chef.

He said as a deaf entrepreneur who bakes for a living he wants to encourage the deaf youth to open their small businesses and learn to be independent.

Pedestrian struck and killed by a light motor vehicle in Benoni

The Actonville resident said he entered the pageant to aspire to be a good role model to the deaf community in South Africa – as there are a few deaf role models to inspire the younger generation.

“I want to create awareness and bridge the gap about the stigmas around being deaf. I feel I can make a difference in the lives of those who are deaf,” said Faeem.

He said winning the competition will allow him to create awareness, uplift youngsters who are deaf in building a better future for them and encourage them to chase after their dreams or goals.

“This is the first pageant I have entered and it is an honour to be a finalist. Through this journey, I want to show the world anything is possible if you set your mind to it,” he said.

“It is fun being involve in deaf communities. You get to meet other deaf people, learn their sign language and their background. It is motivational to learn how other deaf people were able to achieve greater heights.”

Faeem matriculated from St Vincent School for the Deaf in Rosebank in 2003.

The pageant hopeful said being in MDSA for almost two years has a lot of challenges, due to the pandemic.

“However, I have learned so much. The competition has helped me to build up my confidence, how to be proud of myself and who I am,” he said.

“I have also discovered that a lot of people are not aware of sign language. There is also limited access to higher education like universities, colleges, lack of employment and access to necessary resources.”

He said his parents have always been his biggest supporters as they have always supported him through the bad and good times.

“My biggest motivation is to break the stigma associated with being deaf. I want to show the world that deaf people can do anything except hear,” said Faeem.

He added that youngsters with disabilities need to believe in themselves so they can achieve their goals and be proud of who they are.

The finale will be held on September 11 at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Centre in Johannesburg.

To help Faeem win the title, SMS MDS15 to 47439, each SMS is charged at R3 or visit his Facebook page: Faeem Karodia – Mr Deaf South Africa 2020/2021 Finalist

ALSO READ: 

Actonville resident shines a light on surviving cancer, significance of Pride Month