Strictly Come Dancing star Tasha Ghouri says she has 'already won' and has 'mojo back'

'I’ve already won,' inspring Strictly Come Dancing contestant Tasha Ghouri, who was born deaf, said after stunning her fans with her performance with partner Aljaž Skorjanec

Tasha Ghouri is within touching distance of lifting the Strictly glitterball, but she doesn’t need a trophy to feel like a champion – thanks to her amazing fans and dance partner.

The Love Island star, 26, and Aljaž Skorjanec, 34, became the highest scoring pair in the BBC show’s history as they headed towards last night’s semi-final. Tasha, who was born deaf has proved an inspiration for fans with hearing problems.

She said: “I’ve already won by doing the most amazing magical dances with Aljaž. That’s what matters to me. Winning Strictly isn’t on my priority list. Winning for me is knowing that I’ve represented so many people and helped them with their confidence.”

Tasha, who wears a cochlear implant, is following in the footsteps of fellow deaf Strictly contestant Rose Ayling Ellis. The actress, 30, who lifted the glitterball trophy in 2021, got another gong this week when she was made an MBE.

Like Rose, Tasha has received lots of messages from people from the deaf community who have been boosted by seeing her on Strictly. She said: “It’s so lovely that I can go on a TV show and represent so many people. I want to inspire all the young Tashas to feel confident and strong.”

Her chances of winning the contest were almost dashed last week when she and Aljaž ended up in the bottom two. But they won the dance-off against Montell and Johannes. In last night’s semi, they danced the waltz to Aretha Franklin’s (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman and the salsa to Something New, by Girls Aloud.

Tasha said all of her Strictly routines have helped boost her confidence. She said: ”It has been about finding Tasha again. I’ve had such an amazing, busy two years. but I felt like I lost that little part of myself. But I feel like I’ve found that spark again doing Strictly – because dance is such a joy.

“Every day I have a smile on my face, like I’ve got my mojo back. I’m going into the New Year with a bang and hopefully exciting things will happen." Tasha has her sights set on a career as a TV presenter.

She will “definitely” miss spending time with Aljaž, but it won’t be a final goodbye. Tasha said: “I feel like we’re going to stay friends for life.” And she is looking forward to seeing more of boyfriend Andrew Le Page, 29, who she met on last year’s series of Love Island.

Tasha said: “Andrew has supported me so much...he’s always there on the sofa, ready for a cuddle.” So will Aljaz be on hand for any future wedding dance plans? Never say never,” teased Tasha. “I guess Aljaž would have to do a little waltz maybe.”