Pamputtae’s heartwarming bond with special-needs daughter

Even though she isn't Tamoya's biological mother, the nurturing and affectionate care that dancehall artiste Pamputtae provides to her 11-year-old stepdaughter, who has special needs, is truly maternal.

Tamoya is the daughter of Pamputtae's spouse, yet the entertainer readily embraces her as her own.

"She is my daughter; I don't see her as a stepchild. She is my daughter," the Single Mother deejay said with conviction.

Although Tamoya is Canadian, she has strong Jamaican heritage, as her father is from the land of wood and water. Tamoya made her first visit to the island during this summer.

Pamputtae disclosed that her quick bond with Tamoya four years ago was influenced by two significant factors: Tamoya's father being a single parent, and Pamputtae's personal memories of her sister.

"Her father being a single parent drew me closer to her. Observing how he cares for her, tending to her needs, like combing her hair, reminded me of my own sister who had special needs. In my family, my mother had two daughters, both of whom unfortunately passed away. Each Independence Day, I am reminded of this painful loss," Pamputtae shared, reflecting on the emotional connection she feels.

A humanitarian at heart, Pamputtae has sought to empower women and teen girls through her Single Mother Foundation. Born Eveana Henry, she grew up in Fletchers Land, Kingston. She lost her mother at age 10. Her grandmother and an aunt assumed the responsibility to care for her and her sister.

At age 15, she became pregnant and dropped out of high school. She later enrolled in the Women's Centre of Jamaica. The artiste has sought to use her position and testimony to help and inspire others.