Miss Jey has been fascinated with fashion and beauty since she was nine years old, but has joined the world of TikTok since December.
Born Judith Mwinga, Miss Jey says her entry to the short-form mobile video platform happened by accident.
“I was bored. It was going to be a long holiday for me, so I needed something new to keep me entertained. I normally pass my time watching other people being silly. So, I tried imitating people, and at first I sucked, but the weirdest thing is my silliest videos got the most reactions,” she says.
Mwinga says much of the process of creating the video clips depends on her mood.
She uploads between two and ten clips a day.
“I have always loved making people happy and comfortable. People often say I am funny, but I think I’m just bold – a free and unapologetic spirit,” she says.
Mwinga enjoys the process of creating, because it allows her to explore various characters without hurting or offending anyone, she says.
“It’s my escape. I live my fantasies through these videos . . . I don’t think too much about what’s going on around me, because I am just so happy doing this. The response from the public is amazing.”
According to Mwinga, the ability to express herself is healing.
“I didn’t grow up in a family home. I was in hostels mostly. I’ve lived in more than 10 households. I was epileptic. I grew up broken and with many questions. As I got older, I had to teach myself to truly love and accept people. I also taught myself that even though I did not have it all, I have to go along with what was given to me by the universe. I needed to learn to be a happy soul,” she says.
Mwinga says when she was just six months old, she lived in a refugee camp in Luanda.
“I was there during the Unita attack. I somehow survived. This reminds me of how strong I am and that I have a purpose to live,” she says.
Mwinga continues to work as a make-up artist.
“I make people feel good about themselves . . . There’s no better feeling than seeing your client satisfied.”
Business has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, she says.
“Work has definitely slowed down. There are fewer clients now. I am definitely feeling it, but we have to remain positive and focused. That’s my motto.”
While she never imagined she’d take on the world of acting, Mwinga says she plans to tackle this industry.
“I’m prepping myself for casting calls. Even though acting came into my life unexpectedly, I truly believe it’s the right time to try it out professionally. I still have lots of videos to share with the world though.”
– @rinelda mouton on social media
