Jude Marcel to represent Seychelles at Deaf World pageant |19 March 2016

From 2009 since it has been taking part in the Deaf World pageant, it is the first time this year that Seychelles will be sending a male contestant in the event  which will be held in Prague from July  8 to 21.

25-year-old Jude  Marcel of Ile Perseverance will be taking part in the pageant for the Mr Deaf.

The chairperson of the Association for People with Hearing Impairment (Aphi) Anita Gardner said it is only three years now since the Deaf World pageant has included the Mr Deaf World component.

She pointed out that this year the local female contestant recruited for the pageant will be held up because of her university studies so they have recruited a male contestant.

Mr Marcel is currently working as a technician at the Audiology Unit at the Rehabilitation Centre at North East Point after following related training in Mauritius.

He did his first training in Mauritius and is quite happy with his work.

“Since the pageant was opened to male contestants I have been encouraged by Mrs Gardner and former Miss Deaf Seychelles Shana David to take part but I felt I did not have enough confidence to do so,” Mr Marcel pointed out.

“But over time and after all the excitement and photos that the female contestants have shared after they came back from the pageants organised  during the past few years, I believe these have given a boost to my self-confidence and urged me to make those discoveries for myself,” he  explained.

He added that he too wants to feel the excitement of the moment and make new friends.

“The experience really changed their lives and they have become more confident and sure of what they do  and looking at them has helped and encouraged me to take the decision to take part this year,” Mr Marcel added.

He explained that it entails a lot of preparation and grooming.

He said the photo shoots have already started as the best photos need to be sent  to the organisers.

“I am doing lots of catwalk practices and some fitness exercises as well as I want to be in my top shape in July,” Mr Marcel said excitedly.

The  Mr Deaf contestant will parade in swimwear, suit and their traditional clothes.

After the final, the contestant will also be taking part in the world fashion shows organised for them in different towns.

Mrs Gardner is very optimistic and has high expectations in the abilities of the 25-year-old.

“Jude will do his best I know. I have accompanied most of the contestants to the pageants and I have seen how their lives have been changed. They have made friends and gained lots of confidence. They have the world open to them and this is very important for their personal development,” Mrs Gardner pointed out.

Aphi is at the moment seeking sponsorship for Jude to buy his outfits.

Aphi will also be announcing soon the contestant who will be taking part in the forthcoming  Miss Deaf Africa which will be held in Cape Town from July 24 to 31.

Aphi avails of the opportunity to express heartfelt gratitude to Air Seychelles and Miriam Hoareau for always being its faithful partners and hopes for their continuous support.

Any sponsors wishing to support the contestants may get in touch with the association on 2749791/4610378.