Digital content creator Sheryl Gabriella has found herself at the centre of an online debate after appealing for financial support following the death of her father.
The appeal has drawn criticism from some Kenyans, who have revisited comments she previously made about her earnings from social media and brand partnerships.
Gabriella had earlier claimed that she earns more than KSh500,000 a month through brand deals.
She also sparked discussion after telling people not to compare her with “broke girls”, remarks that resurfaced after her latest appeal.
Following the death of her father, Gabriella turned to her social media platforms to seek financial assistance towards giving him a befitting send-off.
Her appeal came as she and her family prepared for the funeral arrangements.
The request has since triggered mixed reactions, with some social media users questioning why she needed public contributions after previously speaking confidently about her income.
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Sheryl Gabriella // Instagram
“Kenyans have questioned the contrast between her earlier income claims and her latest fundraising appeal.”
The criticism has largely centred on the perception created by her previous statements about her financial position.
Previous comments resurface
Gabriella’s earlier remarks have become a major part of the online conversation.
Social media posts discussing the controversy have highlighted her comments about earning substantial amounts from brand partnerships and her reference to women who were struggling financially.
The resurfacing of those remarks has fuelled questions about whether earning a significant monthly income necessarily means someone has enough readily available money to meet an unexpected family expense.
There is, however, no independent evidence available publicly to verify the exact amount Gabriella earns every month from brand deals.
Social media users divided.
While some Kenyans have criticised Gabriella, others have argued that her decision to ask for assistance should not automatically be interpreted as evidence that she is financially incapable of supporting the funeral.
People can have different financial commitments, and income from brand deals may not be received consistently every month.
Some social media users have therefore urged others to separate Gabriella’s previous comments about her earnings from the circumstances surrounding her father’s death.
At the same time, others believe her earlier public statements created expectations about her financial ability and made the fundraising appeal easier to scrutinise.
The debate has consequently shifted beyond the funeral itself to a broader conversation about how influencers present their lifestyles and earnings online.
Sheryl Gabriella // Instagram
Sheryl thanks those who supported her.
After receiving contributions, prayers and messages of support, Gabriella returned to her Instagram Stories to thank everyone who stood by her and her family during the difficult period.
She expressed appreciation to everyone who contributed towards the send-off, regardless of the amount they gave.
“Every contribution, every prayer and every kind word is much appreciated.”
Gabriella said she might not be able to thank everyone personally but wanted them to know that she had seen and appreciated their support.
She also prayed for blessings upon those who helped her family, asking God to replenish what they had given and continue watching over them and their families.
“You have shown me a kind of love I will never forget.”
