Archived - Miss Black Deaf America

The Miss Black Deaf America pageant is a competition for young Black Deaf and Hard of Hearing women in areas of platform, talent, style, and interview. Since its inception in 1983 during the second National Black Deaf Advocates Conference in Philadelphia, PA, the pageant has crowned more than 20 Miss Black Deaf America winners.

In addition to the competition, the MBDAP program also promotes young ladies with education and leadership opportunities for their professional and personal growth and prepares them to be role models for today’s young girls. MBDAP winners receive its scholarship towards supporting their educational goals. 

To request Miss Black Deaf America’s appearance, presentation, or performance, please contact Secretary at secretary@nbda.org. Chenae Laldee is the current Miss Black Deaf America.

Miss Black Deaf America Pages

Notable Former Miss Black Deaf America Titleholders

  • Ronnie Mae Tyson, 1983 Miss Black Deaf America, First MBDA Winner
  • Claudia Gordon, 1990 Miss Black Deaf America, First Black Deaf female attorney
  • Kristi Merriweather, 1991 Miss Black Deaf America, First Coordinator of Youth Empowerment Summit 

Past Miss Black Deaf America Titleholders

  • Ericka Baylor, 2011-2013 Miss Black Deaf America
  • Briana Johnson, 2009-2011 Miss Black Deaf America
  • Jonelle Thames, 2007-2009 Miss Black Deaf America
  • More MBDA Past Titleholders