A mother’s journey: Raising awareness for disability and domestic violence through a beauty pageant

Her mission transcends the glitz and glamour of the stage, serving as a heartfelt plea for awareness, understanding, and support for individuals affected by disability and domestic violence.

For Adel Louw, the journey began with deeply personal experiences. As a mother of two, she faced the daily challenges of raising children, one with a physical disability and another with dyslexia, ADHD, and Irlen Syndrome.

Rather than staying silent about her struggles, she chose to take a stand.

“I wanted to show my children that we can rise above our challenges and create a better future,” Adel shares.

Her entry into the pageant is not just about competing for a crown; it’s about using the platform to highlight critical social issues. By sharing her story and advocating for those who feel voiceless, Adel hopes to inspire others to join her cause.

In addition to her personal journey, Adel launched a campaign against domestic violence, focusing on a critical issue; 42% of households in South Africa are headed by single mothers, leaving young boys without positive male role models. Her initiative aims to connect mentors in the community with these boys, fostering the message that ‘real men do not resort to violence’.

One of the core themes of Adel’s mission is hope – hope for a future where individuals with disabilities are embraced by society and survivors of domestic violence are supported and empowered.

“Every person deserves to live without fear and to be accepted for who they are,” she emphasises.

Through her participation in the pageant, Adel seeks to build a more inclusive community where everyone is valued. Her campaign, Choose to Include, aims to further this cause by promoting acceptance and support for individuals with disabilities.

Adel tirelessly advocates for resources that assist families dealing with disabilities and domestic violence. She hosts workshops, collaborates with local organisations, and shares her story on social media to reach a broader audience.

Her message is clear, ‘Together, we can change perceptions and create a safer, more inclusive society’.

To amplify her impact, Adel is seeking donations to support organisations focused on disability advocacy and domestic violence prevention.

Funds raised will go directly to programs providing essential services such as counselling, legal assistance, and educational resources for affected families.

“Every rand helps,” she states, “Your support can help change lives and create a ripple effect of hope.” She also notes that some of the NPOs she assists can issue tax exemption certificates.”

Adel’s fundraising efforts are not just about financial contributions – they aim to foster community involvement. She encourages individuals to participate in local events, volunteer their time, or simply spread awareness about the issues at hand.

“Awareness is the first step toward change,” she says, emphasising that everyone has a role to play in this journey.

As she prepares for the pageant, Adel embraces the power of storytelling. She knows that sharing her experiences can resonate with others facing similar challenges. By opening up about her life, she hopes to break the stigma surrounding disability, showing that these issues affect people from all walks of life.

Each interview, appearance, and moment on stage offers Adel the chance to advocate for those in need.

“I want people to know that we are not defined by our struggles, but by how we rise above them,” she affirms.

Adel’s journey into the pageant world is a testament to resilience, hope and the transformative power of community.

By raising awareness about disability and domestic violence, she is not only advocating for change but inspiring others to find their voice. As she steps onto the stage, she carries the hopes and dreams of many, reminding us all that together, we can create a brighter future for those who need it most.

If you would like to support Adel in her mission, consider making a donation or getting involved in local initiatives that advocate for disability rights and domestic violence prevention. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals and families striving for a better tomorrow.

As Adel prepares for the pageant finals in March, her determination to be a voice for the voiceless and a beacon of hope for countless women is stronger than ever.

“There is always hope, let’s embrace it together.”

Adel can be contacted via email at adellouwmrsuniversesouthafricafinalist@gmail.com or on 083 389 0990.