IN November 2024, Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina, a 23-year-old Nigerian law student, carved her name into the history of global pageantry. From overcoming an identity crisis to reaching the Miss Universe finals, her journey exemplifies resilience and ambition. Adetshina’s story is one of courage, defying odds, and pursuing dreams with unwavering determination.
Breaking boundaries
Chidimma’s ascent to fame began when she was a contestant in the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant. However, her participation was marred by controversy when questions arose about her South African nationality. Allegations suggested that her mother, a native of Mozambique, might have fraudulently claimed South African citizenship at the time of Chidimma’s birth.
As the controversy unfolded, Chidimma withdrew from the competition, effectively abandoning her South African identity. Turning to her father’s Nigerian heritage, she reclaimed her Nigerian citizenship with open arms. By September, she had not only won the Miss Universe Nigeria title but also emerged as a national icon.
‘I felt stateless for a moment, but Nigeria gave me a home and a platform to achieve my dreams,’ Chidimma said, reflecting on the turbulent period.
Historic achievements at Miss Universe
Representing Nigeria, Chidimma competed in the 73rd Miss Universe contest in Mexico, where she became the only African contestant to make it to the top five. Her stellar performance earned her the title of Miss Universe Africa & Oceania 2024, solidifying her place as a trailblazer in African pageantry.
‘And I just made history,’ Chidimma proudly declared after placing second, behind Denmark’s Victoria Kjaer Theilvig. Her near-win marked the closest any black African contestant had come to claiming the Miss Universe crown since South Africa’s Zozibini Tunzi in 2019.
The identity crisis that shaped her path
Chidimma’s journey was far from smooth. In August, South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs announced its intention to revoke her nationality, citing the unresolved allegations against her mother. Despite the mounting pressure, Chidimma displayed remarkable composure, turning adversity into motivation.
Her decision to embrace her Nigerian roots not only resolved her identity crisis but also provided a new platform for her ambitions. The Nigerian government and organisations like the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant rallied behind her, recognising her potential as a global ambassador.
Inspiration for a continent
Chidimma’s success is more than a personal victory; it is a testament to the possibilities available to African women in global platforms. Her journey underscores the importance of resilience, community support, and the audacity to pursue dreams despite daunting challenges.
Her story also serves as a call for unity across Africa. By transcending borders and differences, African nations can achieve greater representation on the global stage. ‘I believe I have fought not only for myself but for Africa,’ Chidimma said, emphasising her role as a continental icon.
A legacy of courage and tenacity
Chidimma’s achievements have inspired young women across Africa, proving that identity and adversity do not define one’s destiny. Her ability to navigate a complex personal and public journey demonstrates the power of courage and determination.
Her success at Miss Universe has also sparked conversations about the need to uplift women and provide equitable opportunities. By embracing her roots and refusing to back down, Chidimma has shown that audacity and ambition can break barriers and create lasting change.
A bright future ahead
As Chidimma’s global prominence grows, her story continues to inspire countless others to dream big and persevere. Her journey is not just about beauty and pageantry—it is about breaking stereotypes, overcoming challenges, and rewriting the narrative of African women on the world stage.
In her words: ‘This journey was never just about me. It’s about showing the world the strength, grace, and potential of African women.’
With her remarkable accomplishments, Chidimma Adetshina has become a beacon of hope and a role model for a new generation, embodying the audacity to win and inspire.
