College Beat - Silent Beauty
Navigating Life with Hearing Loss
By Zoila M. Goya
2023 National American Miss Virginia
Psychology Student, Gallaudet University
My story is one of resilience, identity, and advocacy. Born in Minot, North Dakota, to Ecuadorian parents, I grew up with a unique blend of cultures and challenges. My mother, an active-duty Air Force member, instilled in me the values of discipline, courage, and pride in her heritage. At just six months old, I was diagnosed with moderate to severe hearing loss and received my very first hearing aids. From that moment, I began a lifelong journey of navigating life in both the hearing and deaf worlds.
In 2023, I participated in my first pageant, the National American Miss, where I was crowned for Virginia. My crown represents far more than a title — it is a platform for advocacy. I believe I represent not only my state but also the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, bringing awareness to their unique challenges. My journey has not been without obstacles. I have faced discrimination for not being “deaf enough,” while also encountering a lack of support in the hearing world. Communication barriers and misunderstandings were frequent, especially during my educational journey, which at times felt isolating and demanding.
Zoila M. Goya 2023 National American Miss Virginia
Yet my determination never wavered. I graduated from Gallaudet University with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology — an achievement made even more inspiring as I simultaneously pursued my dreams in pageantry. My participation in the National American Miss pageant opened another door: an invitation to walk the catwalk during the prestigious 2024 New York Fashion Week. This opportunity not only celebrated my individuality but also amplified my mission to show that differences are strengths, not limitations. For me, what others perceived as weaknesses became my superpowers. My mother always reminded me, “You have the best of both worlds,” a belief I carry with pride and purpose.
Yet my determination never wavered. I graduated from Gallaudet University with a Bachelor’s degree in psychology
An achievement made even more inspiring as I simultaneously pursued my dreams in pageantry. My participation in the National American Miss pageant opened another door: an invitation to walk the catwalk during the prestigious 2024 New York Fashion Week. This opportunity not only celebrated my individuality but also amplified my mission to show that differences are strengths, not limitations. For me, what others perceived as weaknesses became my superpowers. My mother always reminded me, “You have the best of both worlds,” a belief I carry with pride and purpose.
Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in clinical counseling, I channel my passion for communication, advocacy, and public speaking into my academic and professional pursuits. My goal is to create spaces that are inclusive, supportive, and accessible for individuals with hearing loss and other disabilities. I understand the importance of representation — of showing others that their challenges do not define them, but can fuel their purpose.
Balancing my Latina identity with my experiences of hearing loss has shaped my resilience and pride. I have learned to advocate for myself in every environment, overcoming barriers with determination and grace. My journey is a testament to the strength found in self-advocacy, cultural pride, and perseverance.
My story goes far beyond my crown. It reflects my belief that personal challenges can be transformed into powerful platforms for change. My voice — both literal and metaphorical — is a beacon for those who need to be heard. My message is simple yet powerful: “Because at the end of the day, advocacy matters. And like I always say: Be an advocate. Be a voice.”
I stand as a symbol of silent beauty — a reminder that true strength lies not in the absence of challenges, but in the courage to rise above them, embrace identity, and inspire others. My crown calling is not just a personal achievement, but a mission to ensure that every voice — no matter how softly spoken — is heard.