Onalenna’s mention of ‘Chidimma’ annoys Mzansi ‘Cost her the crown’.
The world of beauty pageants is no stranger to drama, and the recent Miss South Africa (Miss SA) event was no exception. Onalenna Constantin, a Top 3 finalist widely regarded as a strong contender, sparked a wave of conversation and controversy with her response during the competition’s “quick-fire” question-and-answer segment. The instance in question involved a subtle yet impactful reference to fellow former Miss SA contestant, Chidimma Adetshina—a reference that many viewers believe may have cost Onalenna the crown, according to The South African
During the event held at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, Miss SA judge Lerato Kganyago asked Onalenna whether technology has brought people closer together or driven them apart. Onalenna’s response was immediate and laden with deeper meanings: “I believe that technology has driven us apart. These last couple of weeks have been very difficult for me. Because I can see how South Africa has been divided through the works of technology.” This statement struck a chord with many, as it seemed to indirectly address the recent controversy surrounding Chidimma’s nationality, which had ignited a social media storm.
Chidimma Adetshina faced significant backlash online, leading to widespread discussions about race, nationality, and the challenges faced within the beauty pageant community. Onalenna’s mention of the societal divides instigated by technology was soon interpreted by many as a nod to her friendship with Chidimma, and her attempt to vocally rally for unity amid division. However, this choice of words did not sit well with all viewers; some felt that it was an inappropriate context to bring up such a sensitive subject, especially at a time when emotions were running high.
In her QnA, Onalenna Constantin addresses the controversy surrounding the alleged xenophobia against Chidimma Adetshina.
“These last couple of weeks have been very difficult for me because I can see how South Africa has been divided through the works of technology”#MissSA2024 pic.twitter.com/dlwSiP3m2i
— TRUELOVE Magazine (@TrueLoveMag) August 10, 2024
Following Onalenna’s comments, the newly crowned Miss South Africa, Mia Le Roux—who is notably the pageant’s first deaf winner—received a warmer reception, elevating her to a level of popularity that perhaps overshadowed Onalenna’s earlier standing as a crowd favorite. Runner-up Nompumelelo Maduna also garnered positive attention, leaving many to speculate that Onalenna’s bold stance may have been a double-edged sword.
Adding to the discourse, South African singer Tyla also expressed her support for Chidimma, tweeting her disappointment over the treatment the former contestant faced. Her remarks, while well-intentioned, were likewise met with ridicule by some South African netizens, revealing the polarized perspectives on the situation. Both Tyla and Onalenna found themselves navigating a complex landscape of opinions about support and backlash, illustrating how deeply entrenched the divisions surrounding this issue had become.
Viewers reactions:
@JonMarduk: “Crown gone for Onalenna. Should have left that Chidimma nonsense out her brain“.
@The_CitizenZA: “Onalenna was a favourite until she tried to be in solidarity with her Chichi friend.”
@Thato_Elizabeth: “Onalenna tripped herself up by speaking about Chichi.”
Eish Onalenna should have said she would bring it unity angithi she said we are divided as a nation #MissSA2024 #MissSouthAfrica pic.twitter.com/8IJtA33fg8
— 🎀Tinaa🎀 (@blackTinaa) August 10, 2024
