Monica Braithwaite is popularly known as the mother of the renowned singer Rihanna. But that is not all that there is to her life. Monica is a tough and compassionate woman. She had an immense influence on Rihanna’s career and life. Let us find out more about her.
Quick Facts About Monica Braithwaite
Full Name | Monica Braithwaite |
Birthdate | April 5, 1969 |
Age | 56 years and 2 months old |
Occupation | Accountant, Businesswoman, Philanthropist |
Husband/Wife | Ronald Fenty (ex-husband) |
Education | Accountant |
Parents | Clara Braithwaite and Lionel Braithwaite |
Grandchildren | RZA, Riot |
Children | Rajad Fenty, Rihanna, Rorrey Fenty |
Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Background
Monica Braithwaite was born on April 5, 1969. She is Guyanese, a nation in South America. Monica is Afro-Guyanese, meaning her family traces their heritage to Africa but resided in Guyana. Her parents are Clara Braithwaite and Lionel Braithwaite. Monica came from a Christian family.
She stands approximately 1.70 meters, or around 5 feet 7 inches. Monica worked diligently from childhood. She turned into an accountant and subsequently businesswoman. She also sold makeup and perfumes. This enabled her to instill an appreciation of beauty and fashion in her daughter.
Family Life
Monica wedded Ronald Fenty. Ronald is Barbadian. He was a warehouse supervisor. Ronald has African, Irish, English, and Scottish mixed roots.
Monica and Ronald had four children. They are named Rajad, Rorrey, Robyn, and Rihanna. Robyn is Rihanna’s full first name. Monica and Ronald resided in a three-bedroom small house in Bridgetown, Barbados.
Sadly, their marriage was troubled. Ronald had alcoholism and drug addiction issues. There were also cases of abuse. Monica suffered a lot of tough times. Due to this, Monica decided to put an end to the marriage. Monica divorced Ronald in 2002 when Rihanna was just 14 years old.
Despite having a divorce, Monica and Ronald remained on good terms. They sometimes show up together for family gatherings.
Monica’s Strength and Support
Monica brought up her children largely by herself following the divorce. She demonstrated a lot of strength and affection. Monica instilled strength and independence in Rihanna. She instilled in her the value of forgiveness and love.
Rihanna usually expresses that her mother is her greatest inspiration. Monica supported her during the difficult times. She also instilled in her the importance of giving to others. Monica taught Rihanna responsibility and compassion.
Monica’s Role in Rihanna’s Success
Monica was more than a mother. She was also a business partner and career guide for Rihanna. Monica assisted in handling aspects of Rihanna’s career. She also assisted with Rihanna’s numerous charitable causes.
Monica’s experience in business and sales helped Rihanna build her own brand. This is clear in Rihanna’s makeup line, Fenty Beauty. Monica’s love for beauty and style influenced Rihanna’s ideas. Rihanna often credits her mother for teaching her about beauty in a natural way.
Close Bond Between Monica and Rihanna
Monica and Rihanna are very close friends. They appear in public together often. They enjoy spending time shopping or going to events. Rihanna has declared that her mother is her “ultimate beauty icon.”
Rihanna expresses her love in a variety of ways. One special one is a grand, lovely five-bedroom house in Barbados. Rihanna purchased it for her mom. It is a gesture of appreciation to Monica for her care and support.
READ ALSO: Rihanna Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
Monica Today
Monica Braithwaite is now a proud mother and grandmother. She remains active in Rihanna’s work and life. Monica goes to most of the events with her daughter. Monica remains a powerful and loving force in Rihanna’s life.
Her life demonstrates that there is always a strong family behind a superstar. Monica’s love and hard work made Rihanna what she is today. Monica is not only Rihanna’s mom but also her mentor and best friend.