Justina Miles went viral for her incredible performance!
20-year-old Miles performed “Lift Every Voice and Sing” in American Sign Language (ASL) during Sheryl Lee Ralph’s pre-show performance. She returned during the halftime show to sign Rihanna’s performance, her rendition of Rihanna’s “BBHMM” immediately going viral.
Miles was valedictorian at the Model Secondary School for the Deaf in Washington, DC. Today, she’s a Bowie State University nursing student who just wanted to be an inspiration to others. “…[don’t] let any obstacles prevent you from achieving your dreams, and to always believe in yourself to go beyond,” Miles told CNBC Make It.
This isn’t the first time Miles went viral for her skills. In 2020, she rose to internet fame after signing Lil Kim’s 1996 hit during the TikTok “Crush On You” challenge, which has been watched over 1.1M times.
“It’s an important moment not only for me to share this experience with the whole world,” Miles said, “But to really bring that empowerment to millions and millions of Black deaf people all over the country who’ve never really seen that before. I feel that is truly lifting every voice, even my voice.”
According to the National Association of the Deaf, she’s performed ASL renditions of music at various concerts throughout the country. However, when she isn’t performing, this Philadelphia native is a track star! She was part of the USA team that went to the 2021-22 Deaflympics in Brazil, where she won a silver medal for the 4×100 women’s relay, according to CNBC.
“I value the opportunity to make it possible for all deaf people to enjoy these songs, and not have them miss out on the full Super Bowl experience,” said Miles.
Keep reaching for the stars, Justina!
Photo credit: WWD/Insider