Why South Africans Rejected Me – Chidimma Adetshina
Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina, newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, has emotionally recounted her recent struggles in South Africa, where she faced backlash due to her nationality. Adetshina, who had previously withdrawn from the Miss South Africa pageant amid controversy, spoke candidly about the rejection she experienced from South Africans.
In an interview, Adetshina revealed that her name was a key factor in the rejection she faced. “South Africans felt like I was not South African enough because of my name, and it was really hard to see,” she shared. “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.”
The controversy surrounding Adetshina’s participation in the Miss South Africa pageant was further complicated by allegations of identity theft against her mother by South Africa’s Home Affairs. However, when asked about these allegations, the beauty queen chose not to comment, citing the ongoing legal nature of the matter.
“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,” Adetshina affirmed.