Chidimma Adetshina: Miss Nigeria’s Historic Achievement at Miss Universe

Chidimma Adetshina, representing Nigeria, placed second in Miss Universe while also being named Miss Africa and Oceania. She faced significant challenges regarding her identity due to her Nigerian heritage and controversies in South Africa. After winning the Miss Nigeria competition, Adetshina aimed to inspire others and plans to seek therapy following her experiences of online abuse. Her achievement marks an important milestone for black African women in beauty pageantry.

Chidimma Adetshina, representing Nigeria, expressed immense pride after securing second place in the Miss Universe competition, as well as earning the title of Miss Africa and Oceania. Following her compete against Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, Adetshina stated, “I am so proud of myself and I just made history.” A significant aspect of her journey involved overcoming xenophobic trolling due to her Nigerian heritage, despite her upbringing in South Africa. Initially, Adetshina participated in the Miss South Africa contest, but was faced with controversy regarding her nationality and identity. This situation escalated when South African authorities suggested her identity papers might be revoked over allegations of fraud associated with her mother’s citizenship. Notably, Adetshina, as a child at the time, could not have engaged in any misconduct. Ultimately, she emerged victorious in the Miss Nigeria competition, earning her entry to the Miss Universe pageant held in Mexico City. Despite the tumult surrounding her identity, Adetshina maintained her self-identification as “proudly South African” and “proudly Nigerian.” Her performance resonated widely, garnering a commendation from the Miss South Africa organization, which shared the South African and Nigerian flags in celebration of her achievement. However, this inflamed criticism from some South Africans who felt she did not embody their representation. Moreover, Adetshina, a law student, disclosed her plans to pursue therapy to address the psychological effects stemming from the abuse she faced throughout the ordeal. Her remarkable achievement as the highest-placed black African woman in the Miss Universe competition since 2019 marks a significant moment in the pageant’s history.

Chidimma Adetshina’s journey to the Miss Universe competition is underscored by themes of identity and resilience. Born and raised in South Africa to Nigerian parents, she faced critical scrutiny and xenophobic attacks, particularly concerning her nationality. This controversy intensified when allegations arose regarding her mother’s citizenship claim. Following this backlash, Adetshina chose to compete in Miss Nigeria, successfully earning her place on the international stage. Her subsequent success represents a pivotal achievement for black African women in beauty competitions.

Chidimma Adetshina’s ascent to prominence in the Miss Universe competition symbolizes her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Despite enduring racial trolling and a challenging identity crisis, Adetshina has made history by achieving a prestigious placement in an international event. Her triumph not only highlights her personal strength but also represents a critical step forward for women of African descent within the beauty pageant arena.

Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk