Former Skeem Saam actress Pebetsi Matlaila has joined the growing number of local artists facing struggles in the entertainment industry. She is one of the few who has openly shared that, in addition to financial difficulties, she is homeless and currently living in a shelter.
Matlaila shared her story on Instagram.
Owning her story
“I’m owning my story, and no one will tell it for me. That’s how I remove the shame and regain my power. So yes, my kids and I are staying at a shelter at a women’s and children’s safety house run by the police department. It’s very safe here; only women and children are allowed, everything is provided for, and they ensure your safety until you’re ready to live independently. This is especially for those coming from domestic violence situations,” she wrote.
“You can stay here as long as needed until you’re back on your feet. I’ve been trying to survive for a long time with my radio job, but finding additional work has been difficult. As for staying with friends or family, I don’t like to overburden people. I struggle to ask for help, and I don’t want to feel like a burden,” she added.
Matlaila explained that sending her children to live with her mother wasn’t an option. Her mother works out of town and only comes home on weekends and holidays.
Separation from her ex affected financial stability
“Honestly, my mother has already sacrificed so much for me and my children. Some family members even see me as a leech, as if I’m draining her. I want to handle this on my own, without relying on my family.”
“When I separated from my ex, I went from a two-income household to a single-income one, and then to having no income at all. I knew things would be tough, and I expected challenges because of my decision. I chose to leave after nine months of marriage, but I didn’t realize it would be this difficult. Even after three years, I’m still facing the consequences of that decision. That’s why I don’t want to burden anyone else,” she said.
She went on to reveal that she ended up in the shelter because she could no longer afford rent.
Wanting to share her own truth
“From October to December, I couldn’t pay rent and eventually got evicted. I honestly thought my book would be my main source of income, but that wasn’t a well-thought-out plan. I’ve been working in radio, but it’s not enough,” she explained.
Matlaila shared her story after noticing that people had started taking pictures of her.