Twenty years ago, an outspoken little girl full of dreams left her homeland of South Africa to craft her acting skills, and gain success. She came to America to pursue a career in acting, believing in the promise of opportunity and the chance to live a life driven by passion and purpose. For two decades, she worked relentlessly while holding down several jobs to build a career in the arts. She created success for herself in countless ways, all while facing unspeakable trauma that would have brought many women to their knees. But Jenique never stopped fighting.

Just as her career began to truly blossom, the world shifted. The COVID-19 pandemic devastated the entertainment industry, forcing a pause on her momentum and casting a long shadow over her progress. Since then, she has faced unimaginable challenges. She was able to move her parents in and care for her mom in LA, thanks to much success as a hand model and a consistent full time job. A year ago she got laid off and without industry she’s barely making ends meet driving Lyft for up to ten hours a day, 6 days a week, cleaning, and catering gigs. Finding work has been challenging, especially for someone who has always had ease finding work and maintaining independent stability.

A week before her birthday, Jenique’s world cracked open. Her beloved sister, Ruwaida (aka Waida) suffered a brain aneurysm and stroke. Days later, she passed. Waida was more than a sister, she was Jenique’s first teacher, her confidant, her anchor in life’s hardest moments. The one she called when she felt like she couldn’t go on. Now, Waida leaves behind two children in South Africa who need care and stability.

Jenique is being called home to handle family affairs, to look after her sister’s children, and to honor the trust Waida placed in her. She is heartbroken, but grateful. Grateful that her sister believed in her. Grateful for the chance to show up, even in the midst of her own pain.

She is not a woman who asks. But mourning leaves no room for ego. On her behalf, because I feel her grief and stress as my own, I am humbly reaching out for support from her friends, her community, and anyone who has seen her strength, felt her heart, and been inspired by her loving light.

Your donation will help Jenique navigate this painful transition and support with her American bills while is in South Africa, manages her family’s affairs, and cares for the children her sister left behind. Any contribution, no matter the size, is a lifeline. Financial support will help her keep her apartment and car so she can return and plan for her next steps, and get back to South Africa with and cover basic necessities as she secures work and starts this new chapter.

Let’s show up for someone who has always found a way to keep going. Let’s help Jenique carry this weight, and remind her that she is not alone.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and love during this incredibly difficult time.

If you would like more info on how funds are assisting you may reach out to her for further information.