Former Skeem Saam actress Pebetsi Matlaila opens up about financial struggles and living in a shelter with her children.
Pebetsi Matlaila Opens Up About Staying in a Shelter With Her Children
Former Skeem Saam actress Pebetsi Matlaila has revealed that she and her children are living in a women and children’s shelter due to financial difficulties. The actress, known for her role as Mokgadi Maputla on the popular SABC1 soapie, shared her struggles in a heartfelt video, explaining that she lost financial stability after separating from her ex-partner.
Pebetsi said she moved into the shelter, which is run by the police department, because she could no longer afford rent. Despite the hardships, she emphasized that she feels safe and will remain there until she can regain financial independence.
From Stability to Struggles: Pebetsi’s Journey
In her emotional video, Pebetsi shared how her life changed drastically after her breakup.
“I went from a two-income household to a one-income household and then to a low-income household,” she explained.
She admitted that her financial struggles intensified following the separation, making it impossible to support her children on her own. Despite her situation, she chooses not to rely on family, as she does not want to overburden them.
Finding Safety and Strength
Pebetsi Matlaila made it clear that staying at the shelter has provided her with a sense of security and stability. She also highlighted the importance of removing the stigma around seeking help during tough times.
“Everything is provided for, and they keep you here until you feel safe enough to leave if you’re coming from a domestic violence situation,” she said.
Pebetsi’s Past Struggles With Domestic Abuse
This is not the first time Pebetsi has opened up about personal hardships. In 2023, during an interview on the Game Changers podcast, she revealed that she had suffered emotional and physical abuse in her marriage.
Her marriage lasted just nine months after she tied the knot following a whirlwind three-month romance. She also admitted that at one point, she considered taking her own life and that of her children due to the overwhelming pain and despair she felt.
Raising Awareness and Breaking the Stigma
Pebetsi Matlaila’s story is a reminder of the challenges faced by many women who leave abusive relationships and find themselves in financial hardship. By sharing her experience, she hopes to inspire others and break the stigma surrounding shelters and women who seek help during tough times.
For now, she remains focused on rebuilding her life while ensuring the safety and well-being of her children.
Also read: Tori Spelling Confesses: ‘I Don’t Drink Water, Only Soda and Wine’ – Fans React
