Credit: missuniverseng/Instagram The path to success is often filled with challenges and obstacles, much like the process of extracting gold from mud, despite its preciousness and high value. Chidimma Adetshina’s journey in pageantry has been fraught with controversies that threatened her aspirations. Her story began when she was announced as a contestant for Miss Universe South Africa 2024.
Although she was born in Soweto and has been a permanent resident of South Africa for over five years, as required by eligibility rules , Chidimma faced scrutiny regarding her eligibility. This was due to an investigation opened against her mother by the Department of Home Affairs and the fact that she was born to a Nigerian father. Chidimma experienced a sort of identity crisis.
Due to the threats and harsh discrimination, Chidimma Adetshina decided to bow out of Miss Universe South Africa 2024. However, she was not deterred. Following an invitation from Guy Murray-Bruce , Miss Universe Nigeria’s National Director, Chidimma contested for Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, representing Taraba State, and won.
She was to represent Nigeria at the upper level, Miss Universe 2024. On November 16th, Chidimma Adetshina made history by becoming the first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico. She is the first Nigerian—and African—woman to achieve this honour since Agbani Darego ‘s notable top 10 finish in 2001.
For being the highest-ranked African contestant of 2024, Chidimma w.