From South Africa to Miss Universe Nigeria 2024: Inspiring life story of Chidimma Adetshina

In this post, News360 Nigeria archives the biography of the Chidinma Adetshina, newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, 2024.

Chidimma Adetshina, a talented beauty model born in South Africa, has recently claimed the title of Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.

Despite facing controversy in the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant due to her mixed heritage, Chidimma has embraced a new opportunity to represent Nigeria on the global stage.

Profile Summary

Full name: Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina

Date of birth: 2001

Place of birth: Soweto, South Africa

Education: University of Pretoria

Relationship status: Single

Career: Model

 Early life

Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina was born in 2001 in Soweto at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital.

Chidimma’s life is a rich blend of cultural influences,  her father is from Nigeria’s Igbo tribe, and her mother’s roots are a mix of Mozambican heritage, with some accounts suggesting Zulu descent.

This diverse background has shaped Chidimma into a proud ambassador of African diversity.

Education

Chidimma Adetshina is currently studying international relations at the University of Pretoria.

Rising Star in both modeling and sports

At just 23 years old, Chidimma has already established herself as a prominent figure in both the modeling world and athletics.

Her passion for netball not only keeps her physically fit but also instills valuable life lessons in teamwork and discipline.

Chidimma’s success across these domains highlights her versatility and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Journey through pageantry

Chidimma’s rise to fame began with her participation in the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant, where she reached the top 9 finalists.

However, her journey took a challenging turn when questions about her eligibility, due to her mixed heritage, led to an investigation by the South African Department of Home Affairs.

This scrutiny into her nationality and her mother’s citizenship status ultimately led Chidimma to withdraw from the competition for her safety.

Despite the controversy, Chidimma garnered significant support from various sectors of society, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), who rallied behind her as a symbol of South Africa’s diverse identity.

Controversy

The controversy surrounding Chidimma Adetshina’s participation in Miss South Africa sparked a nationwide debate on issues of citizenship, identity, and representation.

The Department of Home Affairs faced criticism for its handling of the investigation, raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the process.

Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, also faced backlash for comments perceived as xenophobic and discriminatory.

His remarks about Chidimma’s Nigerian names and mixed heritage further fueled the debate about what it means to be South African in a multicultural society.

A new beginning as Miss Universe Nigeria 2024

In August 2024, after stepping back from the Miss South Africa competition, Chidimma accepted an invitation to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 pageant.

This new chapter in her journey offers her the opportunity to celebrate her Nigerian heritage and showcase the beauty and strength of Nigerian women on an international stage.

Chidimma Adetshina’s story is one of resilience, courage, and cultural pride. As she prepares to represent Nigeria at Miss Universe 2024, she continues to inspire many across Africa and beyond, embodying the spirit of empowerment and determination.

Private life

Adetshina was previously married, and divorced in February. She has one child.

Net wealth

Chidimma Adetshina is estimated to be worth about $100, 000.