I’ve dreamt of walking the Miss Universe stage since 2017 – Chidimma Adetshina

Chidimma Adetshina, the newly crowned Miss Universe Nigeria, has shared her inspiring journey to the Miss Universe 2024 stage.

Last month, Chidimma arrived in Mexico to represent Nigeria at the global competition, with the final showdown scheduled for November 16 at Arena CDMX.

In a recent Instagram post, Chidimma reflected on her seven-year wait to represent Nigeria at the global competition.

The 21-year-old model recounted the challenges she faced, including “tears, pain, and trauma.” She said despite feeling unworthy and doubting herself, she persevered.

“2017, I had this dream of walking the Miss Universe stage with no idea of what it means to be a Queen. 7 years later, in just exactly 8 days I, Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina will be walking the Miss Universe stage,” she wrote.

“Win or not I am so proud of myself and filled with so much joy and fulfilment for I am about to accomplish what once seemed impossible. I envisioned this moment and I’m about to make it a reality.

“This journey hasn’t been easy for me mentally and emotionally. The tears, the pain, the trauma. The days I felt like giving up, the days I felt unworthy and undeserving, however I refuse to let anyone or anything dim my vision.

“This achievement is not just mine but it’s for NIGERIA, it’s for AFRICA. Your support and encouragement has been the fuel to my fire.

“To anyone who has ever doubted themselves, I see you and i believe in you . Your dreams are valid. Dont let fear hold you back.

“Don’t let doubt whisper you can’t because YOU CAN The journev will never be easy.”

Chidimma’s path to Miss Universe was not without controversy. Born to a Nigerian father and Mozambican mother, she faced criticism and withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant due to her nationality.

However, Silverbird Group, organisers of Miss Universe Nigeria, invited her to participate, and she was crowned the pageant’s winner.