Pebetsi Matlaila and kids live in a shelter
Former Skeem Saam actress Pebetsi Matlaila has opened up about her struggles with financial hardship, revealing that she and her two children are currently living in a shelter after being evicted from their rental home.
The actress, who has been candid about her journey, shared an emotional video on Instagram detailing her experience.
Pebetsi admitted she had been unable to keep up with rent payments for several months, despite trying to secure gigs to make ends meet.
Even with assistance from her mother, she ultimately lost her home. “Me and my children are at a shelter. A woman and children safety house. We feel safe here. Everything is provided for,” she shared.
The emotional weight of her situation took a toll on her mental health. “I was losing it. Probably having a nervous breakdown. I shouldn’t have come on social media but I had to accept my situation and also drive my own narrative,” she explained.
She also described her moments of solitude, saying, “I haven’t slept in two nights. When my children were sleeping, I was weeping all night. And yesterday was my crashing point. Throughout the day I had no one to talk to, no one. All I needed was someone to hear me out. But at the end of the day, everyone has their own problems to deal with, and I didn’t want to burden anyone with mine.”
Following her revelation, support poured in from her followers and the industry.
She received job offers, donations, and even essential tools to help her rebuild her career.
In a positive turn of events, Pebetsi shared that she secured a job that not only provides financial stability but also comes with a car.
“I did not just get a job to sustain my children. I got a job that will also give me a car. I didn’t expect that. I cannot believe how things are turning around for me.”
Beyond financial support, Pebetsi expressed deep gratitude for the emotional and psychological assistance her children are receiving.
“Words cannot begin to explain how grateful I am for the love, the gifts (laptop to do online work and sponsors to print more books) and the financial help offered by some of you. I won’t mention names because I was asked to keep them anonymous.”
As she works toward a fresh start, she remains optimistic, promising to use the support wisely to secure a permanent home.
She also announced that she will be taking a temporary break from social media for reflection and gratitude.
“Last, I will go on a sabbatical (fast in thanksgiving), which means I will be offline for some time. But those who have my numbers know where to find me.”
Skeem Saam actress has revealed that she is now homeless and currently staying in a shelter with her children. pic.twitter.com/QpCe1GLcPL
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) March 27, 2025
