By Mia Anthony
Sheikh Mohamed, one of the three hearing-impaired Guyanese models set to compete for the titles of Mr and Miss Deaf International in Tanzania, has said that the opportunity to represent Guyana on an international stage is a dream come true.
Mohamed, Anthonio Johnson and Reshma Seemangal are thrilled at the prospect of showcasing their talents at the second annual Deaf Cultural Arts Festival at the Nyerere International Convention Centre. Stabroek News recently interviewed the trio, facilitated by interpreter Lawrence Hallahan, and their excitement was palpable.
Well-acquainted with the industry, Mohamed previously represented Guyana on the international stage in Las Vegas back in 2016. He achieved 5th place in the top ten during that event. He expressed his desire to provide a new opportunity for Seemangal who has never experienced international travel. He hopes both she and Johnson will have the chance to meet and connect with deaf individuals from around the world.
Seemangal and Johnson were chosen to represent Guyana at the international leg of the pageant based on their exceptional performances in the local Miss and Mr Deaf Competition in 2022. Seemangal is eager to represent her country admirably, expressing her enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Johnson said the 2022 pageant taught him valuable skills such as walking, smiling, dressing, and presenting himself. He sees his journey to Tanzania as an opportunity to learn even more and further enhance his abilities.
Mohamed highlighted how pageantry has allowed him to meet diverse people and expand his knowledge of modelling. His aspiration is to advocate for deaf representation in various industries, beginning with pageantry and modelling. He stressed the importance of inclusive representation, especially in schools, advocating for hearing individuals to learn sign language as a crucial step in improving communication.
The three are united in their goal to challenge stereotypes and create a more inclusive space for deaf individuals, encouraging them to embrace the arts and express themselves without fear. Seemangal is passionate about supporting deaf children within the school system and her church, while Johnson emphasises the urgent need for the inclusion of deaf individuals in society, particularly focusing on assisting children in various ways, including financial support and skill development in modelling.
To realise their ultimate dream of representing Guyana internationally, they require assistance in purchasing flight tickets to and from Tanzania. They have sought sponsorship from various organisations and ministries, including the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Republic Bank, and Bank of Guyana. They are eagerly awaiting responses, hoping for the support that would enable them to showcase Guyana and their group on a broader stage, allowing marginalised groups more opportunities to participate in various activities.
Any organisation that is interested in supporting and donating to the trio can reach out to Sabine McIntosh, Director at Deaf Association of Guyana, at the provided contact numbers: 687-3597 or 225-4489.
