My name is Naila, and I’m one of Ashley’s closest friends. I’m setting this up on behalf of her and her two daughters, Zee and Penelope.

In 2020, Ashley made the bold decision to leave the United States and move to the African continent with her daughters. For the last six years, she’s been building a life rooted in Tanzania and South Africa, and generously documenting and sharing that entire journey with the world.

Many of you know Ashley from that journey. You've watched her raise her daughters here. You’ve watched her build businesses, build community, and build a life most people only dream of.

On Thursday, July 30th, a devastating fire tore through the apartment building in Sea Point, Cape Town, where Ashley and the girls have been building the newest chapter of that life. Tragically, lives were lost in that fire and our hearts are with every family affected. Ashley and the girls are holding them close as the community grieves this loss together.

Ashley, Zee, and Penelope are physically safe. But almost everything else is gone.

Their home. Their belongings. The pieces of a life they had carefully built together in South Africa. All of it was destroyed in a matter of hours.

What they’ve lost isn’t necessarily about the material. It’s the sense of safety, stability, and rhythm that any family needs, especially two young girls.

We are asking anyone who has been moved, inspired, or supported by Ashley over the years to consider giving back to her in the way she has poured into so many of us.

Every contribution will go directly toward:

- Immediate temporary housing for Ashley and the girls

- Replacing essential belongings, clothing, and daily necessities

- Long-term recovery and rebuilding as they find their footing again

- Whatever emotional and practical support the family needs in the weeks and months ahead

No amount is too small. Even a share of this fundraiser matters.

Thank you for holding my family in your heart. Ashley would never ask for help herself. So I’m asking on her behalf.

With gratitude,

Naila

On behalf of the Cleveland family