Chidimma Vannesa Adetshina, the newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, has shared a heartbreaking account of her recent experiences in South Africa.
After withdrawing from the Miss South Africa pageant amid controversy surrounding her nationality and allegations against her mother, Adetshina revealed the emotional toll it took on her.
In an interview, Adetshina expressed her disappointment at the discrimination she faced in South Africa, where she has lived for 23 years. She shared that her Nigerian name was a significant factor in the rejection she experienced, despite her strong connection to the country.
“It was a very horrible experience,” she said, adding, “It is heartbreaking to see that I was not welcomed and accepted.”
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While the beauty queen declined to comment on the specific allegations of identity theft leveled against her mother, she emphasized her unwavering identity as a South African and her pride in her Nigerian heritage.
“South Africans felt like I was not South African enough because of my name and it was really hard to see.
“It was a very horrible experience, and I would not wish it on anybody because I have lived there for 23 years.
“ It is heartbreaking to see that I was not welcomed and accepted”, she said.
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When asked about the allegations of identity theft levelled against her mum, the beauty queen declined to comment on the issue.
“There were some statements that came out from Home Affairs with regard to my mom’s ID as well, and that is still a legal matter so I won’t comment on it.
“What I do know is that I was born in South Africa, and I am still South African, and I am still proudly Nigerian”, she said.
Her experience serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and acceptance in all aspects of society.
