Chidimma Adetshina, a 24-year-old law student and model, made history on November 16, 2024, by finishing as the first runner-up at the Miss Universe competition in Mexico City. Representing Nigeria, Adetshina was also crowned Miss Africa and Oceania, becoming the highest-placed black African woman in the competition since South Africa’s Zozibini Tunzi won in 2019.
Adetshina’s journey to the Miss Universe stage has been marked by both triumph and controversy. Born and raised in South Africa to a Nigerian father and Mozambican mother, she initially participated in the Miss South Africa competition. However, her inclusion sparked xenophobic backlash online, with critics questioning her eligibility due to her Nigerian roots.
In August, Adetshina withdrew from the Miss South Africa contest after facing sustained online abuse. The situation escalated when South African authorities announced plans to strip her of her South African citizenship over allegations that her mother had committed identity fraud. Adetshina, who was an infant at the time of the alleged fraud, has not commented publicly on the matter.
Following these events, Adetshina turned to her father’s homeland, Nigeria, competing in and winning the Miss Nigeria pageant. This victory secured her spot at Miss Universe, where she performed strongly, earning her a runner-up position behind Denmark’s Victoria Kjær Theilvig.
Despite her success on the global stage, reactions in South Africa remain divided. While some South Africans celebrated her achievements, others reiterated their belief that she does not represent their country. Adetshina has consistently maintained her dual identity, stating in a previous interview, “I am proudly South African and proudly Nigerian.”
Her performance at Miss Universe came after Miss South Africa, Mia le Roux, withdrew from the competition last week due to an undisclosed medical condition. Le Roux, who was the first deaf woman to win Miss South Africa, was among those who congratulated Adetshina on her achievements.
Speaking after the event, Adetshina expressed pride in her accomplishments. “I’m so proud of myself and the history I’ve made,” she said. “I hope my journey inspires others to rise above challenges.”
Adetshina has also spoken openly about the toll the online abuse took on her mental health. She plans to seek therapy to address the trauma and has called for greater awareness of mental health issues, particularly among young people in the spotlight.
As Miss Africa and Oceania, Adetshina aims to use her platform to advocate for issues such as mental health awareness and cultural diversity. Her historic placement at Miss Universe is seen as a significant moment for African representation in global beauty pageants.
