Actress and show host Nancy Isime has opened up about her early struggles and the heartfelt support she received from music star Yemi Alade.

In an emotional Instagram post, Nancy revealed that during her early days as a struggling actress and model, she once squatted at Yemi’s house.

She recalled working late into the night with nowhere to go, often sleeping on chairs or the floor at event venues.

Expressing deep gratitude, Nancy praised Yemi for her kindness and generosity during that difficult period.

She described the singer as peaceful, considerate, and full of positive energy—qualities that left a lasting impression on her.

The two recently celebrated their friendship by donning matching Yoruba traditional attire, with Nancy using the moment to reflect on how far they’ve come and the powerful bond they share.

She wrote, “Story Story…I’ve told this story before, and I’m sure Yemi is probably rolling her eyes right now but Yemi, I meant it when I said I’ll tell this story every chance I get.

“As I was saying…Story, Story. As a lot of you might already know, I started working at 17. As an usher/model whose parents lived all the way in Ikorodu, while most of her jobs were in town, it was difficult to go home most days when we closed too late for me to find a bus or bike to take me home.

“I’d have to ask any of my co-workers then if it was okay to crash at theirs till morning, and when there’s enough people staying back with me at the venue, I’d sleep on chairs joined together or the ground/rugged area till it was bright enough to get a bus home.

“The ages 17-19 were basically me struggling for a place to sleep when I worked too late to go home.

“Sometimes I’d brave it back home to Ikorodu at 2/3 am, trekking with my koin koin shoe with my dad worried, calling me every 3 minutes and my brothers in the streets trying to meet up with me. Let’s just say I’m destined to live long.

“Yes, my family were worried, especially my dad, but I am a dangerous gyal and it’s best to let me figure out life my way…else! The rebellion is quite rebellious, I must confess. I’m a full blooded Esan Woman. Our stubbornness is from above.

“Now comes Yemi, whom I had met through a mutual friend and had become an acquaintance. I asked her over the phone one day if it was okay to stay at her off-campus accommodation for a bit, and she immediately said Yes!

“Fam, I stayed for weeks, and this woman never complained! The peace was too much; I had to leave when I wasn’t ready to.

“Shortly after, I could afford my own space in her building as I gained uni admission, and the friendship and kindness continued. Yemi is becoming my kind neighbour.

“Many years later, I still have the softest spot for Yemi and will eternally be grateful to her for being one of the bookmarks of kindness and generosity in my life. Allowing me to squat with her wasn’t what stood out; I squatted with other people, too. It was the attitude, consideration and peace! My Padi @yemialade, I dey for you for Life!!”