Chidinma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina who represented Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant, made history by placing as 1st runner-up in this year’s pageant held in Mexico. In addition to her outstanding achievement, she was crowned Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, the highest ranking ever achieved by a Nigerian contestant in the history of the pageant. This historic victory has led to great jubilation throughout the continent of Africa and a defining moment for Nigeria.
Adetshina’s journey to this historic accomplishment was anything but conventional. Born in Soweto, South Africa to a Nigerian father of Igbo descent and a Mozambican Mother. Her upbringing was greatly influenced by her multicultural background. Currently a Law student, she combines beauty with intellect, embodying the qualities of a modern, empowered woman. Growing up in Cape Town she was exposed to a variety of viewpoints, which fuelled her enthusiasm for leadership and advocacy. Her early years were steeped in the richness of African cultures, navigating a fusion of traditions and values from her father’s Nigerian roots, her Mozambican maternal heritage, and the vibrant South African environment she called home. This unique blend of identities created a foundation of resilience, resourcefulness, and a fierce belief in diversity.
Adetshina has a profound awareness of the difficulties experienced by people who are marginalized or excluded due to their backgrounds as a result of her being part of several cultures. She has always believed that representation and inclusion matter.
During the Miss South Africa 2024 Pageant, Adetshina made her public debut. She immediately became a fan favourite due to her commitment to worthy causes, her beautiful smile, commanding presence and self-assurance. However, controversy quickly eclipsed her journey. Questions were raised about her citizenship and qualification, after an investigation by South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs. Allegations of identity fraud and irregularities centered on her mother’s 2001 South African citizenship gain. Although, the Miss South African organization confirmed that she met all the conditions to compete, the growing scrutiny and polarized opinions led her to withdraw, citing concerns for her safety and wellbeing.
Her journey would have been easily derailed by the pressure of this controversy. But in the aftermath of these difficulties, Adetshina’s resilience was demonstrated. Instead of giving up, she redefined her path and embraced her Nigerian roots, competing in Miss Universe Nigeria 2024. Representing Taraba state, she emerged victorious, earning the opportunity to represent Nigeria on the global stage. This shift was more than just a title change; it was an act of self-determination that allowed her to reclaim her narrative after an unsettling chapter.
Adetshina provided a potent insight on her identity while competing in Miss Universe Nigeria 2024. She asserted firmly,
"As I am still fighting for my identity, I am still proudly South African , and I am still proudly Nigerian, and it's really ok to be diverse"
Despite the challenges she faced this statement perfectly encapsulated her acceptance of her nuanced ancestry and her belief that diversity is beautiful.
In Mexico, Adetshina enthralled both judges and spectators alike. She was one of the most admired contestants because of her knowledge, grace, and poise which were evident throughout the competition. Beyond her physical beauty, she used her platform to highlight important causes, most notably through her SUEI-CHANT Project. An acronym for Strength, Unity, Educate, and Inclusion, this initiative was founded by Adetshina to uplift marginalized communities. Through the project she advocates for underprivileged children, mental health awareness, and promote inclusion, and representation in leadership roles.
In a celebration of Nigerian ancestry, Adetshina’s outfits for the competition combined modern sophistication with cultural pride. Her capacity to successfully combine tradition and modernity struck a profound chord with viewers, solidifying her standing as an international representation of African brilliance. To witness the stunning display of her national costume, watch the video;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0k7IHqI4Cg
She also earned the additional title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania after her historic 1st runner-up finish on the Miss Universe stage. This accolade recognized her as the highest ranking competitor from the African continent and further cemented her legacy in the pageant’s history. In addition to being a personal triumph, Adetshina’s accomplishment demonstrated the resilience and promise of African women on the international scene.
Reflecting on her journey during the Miss Universe 2024 interview session, Adetshina stated,
"As a woman who has faced adversity, I feel like I have a powerful story. I don't stand here as Chidinma Adetshina, but as a symbol of hope. A beacon of faith as someone who has persevered with grace, I believe I have fought for not only myself but for Africa"
Her words resonated deeply, perfectly encapsulating the essence of her journey and the hope she represents for many.
Her story has truly inspired widespread celebration. While Africans from various nations have welcomed her accomplishment as a collective victory, Nigerians worldwide have praised her as a national hero. Her journey serves as a reminder of the value of tenacity and self-confidence, particularly in the face of adversity. While her crowning achievements may have taken place on the Miss Universe stage, her impact goes far beyond the realm of pageantry.
Adetshina has expressed her commitment to using her platform to bring about significant change in the future. Through the SUEI-CHANT Project, she intends to continue advocating for marginalized communities, advancing education, and confronting social inequalities. Her commitment to these causes is a reflection of her values-based vision of developing the next generation of leaders. She believes in the transformative power of education, the importance of mental health awareness, and that there is a pressing need for more diverse voices in leadership roles.
Chidinma Adetshina’s tale is one of resilience, bravery, and triumph. From her roots in Soweto to her ascent to international fame, she has demonstrated that obstacles can be transformed into opportunities. Her victory at Miss Universe is a win not just for Nigeria but for Africa and beyond- a testament to the human’s spirit ability to overcome adversity and attain greatness. As her journey continues, Adetshina remains a beacon of hope, inspiring countless individuals to dream bigger and reach higher.