Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina

Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina, born on May 4, 2001, in Soweto, South Africa, is a model and law student of Nigerian and Mozambican heritage.  She was born at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent. She gained international recognition in 2024 by winning the Miss Universe Nigeria title and securing the first runner-up position at the Miss Universe pageant, marking Nigeria’s highest placement in the competition’s history.

Early Life

Adetshina was born at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent. Growing up in a multicultural environment, she was exposed to diverse cultures and traditions, which influenced her worldview and aspirations.

Education

She pursued her education at Varsity College in Cape Town, South Africa, where she studied law. Her academic journey reflects her commitment to justice and advocacy, aligning with her passion for addressing social issues such as gender-based violence.

Career Beginnings

Adetshina’s modeling career began in South Africa, where she participated in various local fashion events and competitions. Her dedication and unique background quickly set her apart in the modeling industry.

Major Achievements

In 2024, Adetshina entered the Miss South Africa pageant, reaching the top 11 finalists. However, her participation sparked controversy due to questions about her citizenship and eligibility, leading to her withdrawal from the competition.

Undeterred, she returned to Nigeria and competed in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant, representing Taraba State. Her resilience and grace led her to win the title, and she went on to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico, where she finished as the first runner-up.

Personal Life

Adetshina is a mother to a one-year-old son. She was previously married and got divorced in February 2024, citing incompatibility as the reason for the separation.

Challenges and Controversies

In 2024, Adetshina entered the Miss South Africa pageant, aiming to represent the nation’s diversity. However, her participation sparked controversy due to questions about her citizenship and eligibility. Concerns were raised regarding her dual citizenship of South Africa and Nigeria, leading the South African Department of Home Affairs to investigate her background. The investigation allegedly revealed preliminary evidence suggesting potential issues with her mother’s acquisition of South African citizenship. It was said that the Department of Home Affairs planned to take further action, which may have included potential criminal charges based on the investigation’s findings. Adetshina garnered support from the public who saw her as a representation of South Africa’s diverse population. A South African far-left political party, the Economic Freedom Fighters, publicly defended her, calling for an end to xenophobia in South Africa and advocating for inclusivity. While other parties, namely the African National Congress and the Patriotic Alliance advocated for an investigation into her nationality. The minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, confirmed that the department would investigate the nationality of Adetshina only after her family requested it. Additional controversy emerged when a video circulated online showing Adetshina celebrating her progress in the pageant with her Nigerian relatives. The Miss South Africa pageant maintained that Adetshina fulfilled all the requirements to participate in the competition. In October 2024, the Department of Home Affairs of South Africa revoked her South African identity papers following an investigation into her mother’s origins.

Following her withdrawal from the Miss South Africa pageant, Adetshina returned to Nigeria after 20 years and was warmly received. She was invited to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant, where she represented Taraba State. Her journey to the title was remarkable, reflecting resilience and grace. In September 2024, she was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, expressing gratitude to Nigeria for its warm welcome.

Adetshina’s success continued on the global stage. In November 2024, she made history by becoming the first Nigerian to emerge as the first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant held in Mexico. After the competition, she expressed her gratitude, recalling how Nigerians supported her during her lowest point and how Africa taught her the importance of unity in achieving success.

Chidimma Adetshina’s journey from controversy in South Africa to acclaim in Nigeria and on the international stage highlights her resilience and commitment to representing her heritage with pride.

Her participation in the Miss South Africa pageant was met with scrutiny over her nationality, leading to an investigation by the South African Department of Home Affairs. The controversy highlighted issues of xenophobia and identity within South Africa. Despite these challenges, Adetshina remained steadfast, eventually withdrawing from the competition to ensure her family’s safety.

Legacy and Impact

Adetshina’s journey from controversy in South Africa to acclaim in Nigeria and on the international stage underscores her resilience and commitment to representing her heritage with pride. Her achievements have inspired many, highlighting the importance of embracing one’s identity amidst adversity.

Philanthropy and Social Contributions

She is passionate about advocating for change on violence against women and children and gender-based violence, reflecting her commitment to social justice and community empowerment.

Quotes and Personal Philosophy

Adetshina describes herself as ambitious, confident, and optimistic, living by the motto: “Dreams are valid when actions are taken.”

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