South Africans Intensify Debate Over Miss South Africa Contestant of Nigerian Origin

South Africans are increasingly divided over Chidimma Adetshina, a finalist in the 2024 Miss South Africa pageant, due to her Nigerian heritage, reports The South African Times. Adetshina, a 23-year-old model from Soweto, has become a focal point in the ongoing national debate about xenophobia and South African identity.

Despite being born and raised in South Africa, Adetshina's Nigerian and Mozambican roots have sparked controversy. She entered the Top 30 of the Miss SA competition, igniting discussions about her eligibility to represent South Africa on such a prestigious platform.

In an interview with Soweto SMag, Adetshina shared her experiences, highlighting that her South African birth and upbringing have not shielded her from criticism. “My dad is a proud Nigerian, and my mother, born in South Africa, has Mozambican roots. Despite this, some people question my right to represent South Africa,” she stated.

Adetshina is not the first contestant to face scrutiny over heritage in the Miss South Africa pageant. In 2001, Vanessa Coutroulis, born to Portuguese-Angolan parents, won the crown. Similarly, Sherry Wang, of Chinese descent, faced backlash earlier in 2024 but advanced to the Top 25.

According to South African citizenship laws, anyone born in South Africa with at least one South African parent or a permanent residency permit holder qualifies for citizenship. The Miss South Africa organization adheres to these criteria, stating that all entrants must be South African citizens with valid identification.

Adetshina, a netball player and law student at Varsity College, Sandton, remains optimistic despite the criticism. She dreams of representing South Africa at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant in Mexico and advocates for sports and combating gender-based violence.

Social media reactions to Adetshina’s participation have been mixed. Critics argue that her Nigerian heritage disqualifies her from truly representing South Africa, while supporters accuse detractors of xenophobia, emphasizing the inclusive nature of South African citizenship.

Adetshina expressed her frustration in Soweto SMag, attributing much of the backlash to xenophobia. “This feels like black-on-black hate. I’m not the only contestant with a non-South African surname, but I seem to attract more negative attention due to my skin color,” she noted.

Despite the challenges, Adetshina is determined to succeed. She added; “I’ve dreamed of being Miss SA since 2017. Being a finalist feels like living my mother’s dream of becoming a model, a dream her father never allowed her to pursue.” 

The Miss South Africa organization has affirmed Adetshina's eligibility, stating that she meets all requirements for participation. Support for Adetshina also comes from prominent figures and organizations, who view her as a symbol of South Africa’s diversity.

Frank Onyekwelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA), praised Adetshina. He said;
“Chidinma embodies beauty, brains, and bravery. She is a true Ambassador of Peace and has embraced South African culture. Her participation debunks negative stereotypes and highlights the potential for collaboration between South Africa and Nigeria”.

As Adetshina continues her journey in the Miss South Africa pageant, the broader conversation about xenophobia and national identity in South Africa persists, urging a reconsideration of what it means to be truly South African.

Screenshots from social media below;