28/08/2024
Meet Queen Brenda Nyangoma; The Reigning Miss Deaf.
Miss Brenda Nyangoma who hails from Fort portal City in Western Uganda is the reigning Miss Deaf Uganda having been crowned the first official Miss Deaf Uganda on 21st September 2023. The Beauty queen whose childhood was filled with love and support from family, who encouraged to pursue my passions throughout her childhood that has led her to finally becoming the Miss Deaf Uganda shares her experience as the face of Miss Deaf Uganda
Miss Brenda recounts one of her standout moment as being the time when she first learnt sign language and connected with the deaf community having grown up hearing and losing her hearing at the age of 9.
“Learning sign language and communicating using signs felt like finding my tribe!"
She says she lost her hearing due to quinine injection an anti-malarial treatment that has been discontinued due to its ability to trigger disabilities among children. Miss Brenda narrates that the incident was challenging, but was so happy that her family's support and the deaf community's embrace helped her thrive. She learnt to adapt and find strength in her new identity.
The queen who is twin revealed to us that she has often look up to her parents, and her dearest twin sister who have been her biggest cheerleader and have always encouraged her to pursue her dreams. She believes that her family’s hard work, sacrifices, and unconditional love is what has inspired her to be the best version of herself.
On why she contested for the Miss Deaf Uganda pageant, Miss Brenda says she wanted to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, advocate for Sexual reproductive Health Rights for Deaf young girls and women.
“I want to use this platform to show the world our beauty as Deaf young women, our talents and the potential we possess in creating a world that works for all.
As the reigning Queen, Miss Brenda is looking up to promoting inclusivity, accessibility, and Deaf awareness. And she is volunteering and supporting several organizations to create opportunities for Deaf youth and women she is currently supporting some organizations including The MakeWay Youth Panel, Reach A Hand Uganda and Uganda Deaf Football Association were she has been part of events like the Youth Action Baraza, Sign Language Workshops, SRHR advocacy events among others. These she believes promote unity and empowerment within the deaf community and hearing at large.
She advices her fellow young girls and women, to embrace their uniqueness, find their voice, and not let anyone or any situation limit their potential.
“Deaf young women and girls should surround themselves with supportive people and pursue their passions with confidence!” She stresses.
