”As the globe commemorates International Women’s Day with the theme “Accelerate Action“
– Nigerian model and beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina is sharing her journey to inspire resilience and solidarity.
Adetshina, who originally focused on the runway instead of pageantry, remembers the moment that altered her trajectory. Motivated by the 2017 Miss Universe Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, she chose to pursue the competition scene in 2024.
“I never actually had a desire to participate in pageantry,” she confesses. “However, I established a goal for myself when I witnessed Demi-Leigh on the Miss Universe stage.” “I aspired to be like her, to become a queen.”
Nevertheless, her journey was filled with challenges. Speaking openly, Adetshina underscores the prejudices that women frequently encounter in different sectors.
“The initial step is to recognize that biases and prejudices are present,” she states. “Once we acknowledge that, we can begin discovering methods to manage and conquer them.” Honoring diversity is essential—it encompasses not only culture but also religion, identity, and heritage. “Inclusion enhances our strength.”
For Adetshina, determination is a consistent motif. She acknowledges there have been moments when she thought about quitting, doubting if her efforts were meaningful.
“There are moments when I think, ‘When will I finally have some time off?’” she expresses. “It’s challenging because the motivations that fuel me are often the same ones that occasionally seem unattainable.” However, I remind myself that there is still one more individual to motivate.
Her message to women this International Women’s Day is unmistakable: in spite of challenges, continue moving ahead. “I am here not merely as Chidimma Adetshina, but as an emblem of hope and belief.” “I’ve battled not just for my own sake but for Africa,” she states.
While the world contemplates this year’s theme, Adetshina’s narrative serves as a strong reminder.
