Chidimma Adetshina’s Historic Miss Universe Achievement Amidst Adversity
Chidimma Adetshina has made history by finishing as the second runner-up in the Miss Universe competition, also earning titles as Miss Africa and Oceania. Despite battling trolling and allegations regarding her nationality, she proudly embraces her identities as both South African and Nigerian. Adetshina aims to seek therapeutic support following her experiences of online abuse.
Chidimma Adetshina, representing Nigeria, expressed immense pride after finishing as the runner-up in the Miss Universe competition, where she was also honored as Miss Africa and Oceania. “I’m so proud of myself and I just made history,” stated Adetshina following her close contest against Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig. Initially competing in the Miss South Africa pageant, Adetshina faced trolling and xenophobic harassment due to her Nigerian heritage. Despite these challenges, she persevered and ultimately secured her position in the Miss Universe contest after winning the Miss Nigeria title. Recent allegations regarding her identity papers and claims of identity fraud linked to her mother, who has roots from Mozambique, spurred controversy. South African authorities announced intentions to revoke her identity documents. However, it was clarified that Adetshina could not have participated in any alleged wrongdoing as she was merely an infant at that time. Through her experience, Adetshina has maintained her identity, proudly identifying as both “proudly South African” and “proudly Nigerian.” She is also the highest-placed Black African woman at Miss Universe since Zozibini Tunzi of South Africa claimed victory in 2019. Following Miss Universe’s congratulatory tweet featuring both the South African and Nigerian flags, some South African voices expressed dissent regarding her representation. More recently, Adetshina announced her plans to seek therapy to address the psychological impact of the online abuse she encountered.
Chidimma Adetshina’s participation in beauty pageants highlights the complexity of identity and representation in the context of globalization. Born in South Africa to a Nigerian father, her journey has been marred by xenophobic backlash and allegations regarding her citizenship. The tension surrounding her participation in beauty contests reflects broader societal issues relating to nationality and belonging in contemporary Africa. Her success in Miss Universe not only breaks barriers but also serves as a platform for discussing these essential topics.
Chidimma Adetshina’s achievement as the second runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant marks a historic moment for representation, particularly for Black African women. Despite facing considerable adversity, including rampant trolling and allegations related to her nationality, she has shown resilience and determination. Her dual identification as both South African and Nigerian resonates with many, suggesting a shift towards more inclusive definitions of identity in a globalized world.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
