Chidimma Adetshina, the Miss Nigeria, made history by securing second place at the Miss Universe competition and being named Miss Africa and Oceania. Despite facing trolls and identity challenges in South Africa, she won the Miss Nigeria contest and emerged as the highest-placed black African woman in Miss Universe since 2019. Adetshina plans to seek therapy to cope with her experiences as she embraces her dual Nigerian and South African identity.
Chidimma Adetshina, representing Nigeria, expressed immense pride in securing second place at the Miss Universe competition, while also earning the titles of Miss Africa and Miss Oceania. Following her commendable performance, she stated, “I’m so proud of myself and I just made history,” while accepting the runner-up position to Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig. Her journey to Miss Universe, notably influenced by challenges related to her identity in South Africa, underscores her resilience amidst adversity. Initially competing in the Miss South Africa pageant, Adetshina faced xenophobic trolling due to her Nigerian heritage, which has been a source of significant discouragement for her. The situation escalated with allegations of identity fraud linked to her mother, prompting authorities to question her nationality and stripping her of identity papers. Despite these challenges, she continued to pursue her aspirations and ultimately won the Miss Nigeria contest, earning her the right to participate in Miss Universe in Mexico City. Adetshina’s participation marked a significant moment, as she became the highest-placed black African woman in this competition since Zozibini Tunzi’s victory in 2019. Adetshina’s academic background as a law student demonstrates her commitment beyond pageantry, as she emphasizes her dual cultural identity, declaring herself “proudly South African” and “proudly Nigerian”. Despite mixed reactions from South Africans on her representation, she has remained steadfast in her identity. Following her Miss Universe success, she announced plans to seek therapy to address the trauma from her past experiences, demonstrating her commitment to healing and personal growth.
Chidimma Adetshina’s experience in the Miss Universe pageant reflects broader issues of identity, heritage, and the impact of social media on public perception. Born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a mother with Mozambican roots, she faced harassment and challenges that culminated in a quest for her rightful place in the beauty contests. The backlash she faced, which included allegations of fraud against her mother, highlights the sensitive intersection of nationality and personal identity in contemporary society. Adetshina’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but represents the potential for success against systemic adversity.
In conclusion, Chidimma Adetshina’s journey in the Miss Universe competition exemplifies her resilience in the face of adversity, personal challenges, and social media scrutiny. Her achievement, marked by a second-place finish and the acquisition of other prestigious titles, highlights the complexity of identity and representation in pageantry. Moving forward, Adetshina’s commitment to therapy and personal growth signifies hope for overcoming past traumas while serving as an inspiration to many.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
