Claire Stoermer is an American former teacher, jewelry designer, and entrepreneur best known as the mother of Hollywood actress and singer Zendaya. Although her daughter has become one of the most recognizable stars in entertainment, Claire has built a meaningful professional life of her own. She spent years teaching children in Oakland, California, worked at the California Shakespeare Theater, and later established a handmade jewelry business called Kizzmet Jewelry.
Her influence on Zendaya’s upbringing has been significant. Long before the actress became famous through Disney Channel, Euphoria, Spider-Man, and Dune, Claire was working multiple jobs to support her family. According to People magazine’s profile of Zendaya’s parents, Claire and Zendaya’s father, Kazembe Ajamu Coleman, were both teachers who encouraged their daughter’s education and creative interests.
In 2026, Claire continues to attract interest because of her relationship with Zendaya, her jewelry business, and her role in supporting her daughter’s career. Although she and Kazembe divorced in 2016, they have maintained a friendly relationship and continued supporting their daughter. Her story is about much more than being the parent of a celebrity. It reflects years of dedication to education, family, creativity, and independent work.
Claire Stoermer Biography and Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full name | Claire Marie Stoermer |
| Known as | Claire Stoermer |
| Nationality | American |
| Reported birth date | March 24, 1964 |
| Reported age in 2026 | 62 years |
| Birth date verification | Not independently confirmed |
| Profession | Former teacher, jewelry designer, entrepreneur |
| Known for | Being Zendaya’s mother |
| Former husband | Kazembe Ajamu Coleman |
| Divorce | 2016 |
| Daughter | Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman |
| Daughter’s birthday | September 1, 1996 |
| Former workplace | Oakland schools |
| Theater connection | California Shakespeare Theater |
| Business | Kizzmet Jewelry |
| Jewelry products | Handmade necklaces, bracelets, and accessories |
| Current relationship status | Not publicly confirmed |
| Net worth | Not independently verified |
Claire Stoermer’s Early Life and Background
Claire Stoermer was born in the United States.
Several online biographies identify her birthday as March 24, 1964.
However, this date has not been consistently confirmed through authoritative public records or direct statements.
Her exact birthplace and childhood circumstances are also not widely documented.
Unlike her famous daughter, Claire spent much of her life away from entertainment publicity.
Her professional background became more widely discussed after Zendaya developed a successful acting career.
Growing Up Before Hollywood Fame
Claire’s early life took place long before her family became connected to Disney Channel and Hollywood.
She eventually pursued a career in education.
Teaching became an important part of her identity.
She worked with children and developed an interest in making learning more engaging.
Her later work at a Shakespeare theater also demonstrated her appreciation for performing arts.
These professional experiences became important influences on Zendaya’s childhood.
How Old Is Claire Stoermer in 2026?
Claire Stoermer is commonly reported to be 62 years old in 2026.
This estimate is based on the frequently published birth date of March 24, 1964.
However, because that date has not been independently established, her precise age should be treated as unverified.
What is certain is that she is the mother of Zendaya, who was born on September 1, 1996.
Zendaya celebrated her 30th birthday in September 2026.
Claire has supported her daughter’s career from its early stages.
Claire Stoermer’s Career as a Teacher
Before becoming recognized as Zendaya’s mother, Claire worked as a schoolteacher in Oakland, California.
Her teaching career is one of the most important parts of her personal story.
She worked in schools serving communities with limited resources.
Some of these schools faced financial challenges.
Despite those difficulties, Claire tried to provide students with meaningful educational experiences.
Teaching in Oakland Schools
Oakland is a major city in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Its schools serve children from different communities and backgrounds.
Claire worked with students who did not always have access to the same educational opportunities as children in wealthier neighborhoods.
She tried to introduce them to subjects and experiences beyond the ordinary classroom.
These included the arts, literature, and nature.
Zendaya Praised Her Mother’s Teaching
Zendaya has spoken publicly about the influence of her mother’s career.
In a 2016 interview with Teen Vogue, the actress described watching Claire teach in Oakland.
She explained that her mother worked hard to provide students with opportunities.
Claire introduced children to Shakespeare and helped them experience activities outside their usual environment.
Zendaya described being deeply inspired by this dedication.
She also said that she would consider becoming a teacher if she were not an actress.
Why Education Was Important in Their Family
Claire believed that education could help children discover new possibilities.
She encouraged curiosity and creativity.
Her approach involved teaching more than academic facts.
She wanted students to experience theater, literature, and the natural world.
These values also became part of Zendaya’s upbringing.
Although Zendaya eventually entered entertainment, her parents continued emphasizing schoolwork and personal responsibility.
Claire Stoermer Worked at the California Shakespeare Theater
One of Claire’s most important professional experiences was working at the California Shakespeare Theater.
The theater, commonly known as Cal Shakes, operated in the San Francisco Bay Area.
It staged productions of Shakespeare’s plays and other theatrical works.
Claire worked as a house manager.
Her responsibilities included helping coordinate the audience experience.
Why Claire Took a Second Job
Claire and Kazembe were both teachers during Zendaya’s early childhood.
Their income was limited.
To support the family, Claire took additional work at the theater.
She later explained that the family sometimes lived paycheck to paycheck.
The second job helped provide money for travel and other opportunities.
This decision eventually had an unexpected effect on Zendaya’s future.
Zendaya Grew Up Around Theater
As a young girl, Zendaya often accompanied her mother to work.
She spent time around actors, backstage areas, and live performances.
Sometimes she helped distribute programs.
She also watched theatrical productions from the audience.
The experience introduced her to storytelling at an early age.
Zendaya has explained that watching Shakespeare productions helped develop her interest in acting.
The Theater Changed Zendaya’s Life
Claire’s work gave Zendaya opportunities to observe professional performers.
She learned how actors transformed themselves into different characters.
She also became interested in the energy of live audiences.
The theater eventually offered opportunities for young people to participate in acting programs.
Zendaya began developing her performance skills through these experiences.
Claire therefore influenced her daughter’s acting career before Hollywood became involved.
Claire Stoermer Supported Zendaya’s Acting Dreams
Zendaya expressed an interest in performing during childhood.
She participated in theater and eventually began attending auditions.
However, pursuing acting required time, money, and travel.
Her parents needed to make important decisions about how to support her.
Traveling Between Oakland and Los Angeles
Many major television auditions took place in Los Angeles.
Zendaya and her family lived in the Bay Area.
The distance created practical challenges.
Claire continued teaching in Oakland.
Kazembe eventually spent more time in Los Angeles to help their daughter attend auditions.
The family traveled between the two locations while Zendaya pursued opportunities.
Making Financial Sacrifices
Zendaya has explained that her parents made sacrifices to support her career.
Claire continued working multiple jobs.
Her earnings helped cover expenses connected with travel and auditions.
Kazembe later left teaching to manage Zendaya professionally.
These decisions were significant because the family did not begin with Hollywood wealth.
Their support helped Zendaya pursue acting while maintaining a strong connection to her family.
Zendaya’s Disney Channel Breakthrough
Zendaya’s first major television opportunity came through Disney Channel.
She was cast as Rocky Blue in Shake It Up.
The series premiered in November 2010.
It followed two teenage girls pursuing their dreams of becoming professional dancers.
Zendaya starred alongside Bella Thorne.
The show became popular with young audiences.
Claire’s Role During the Disney Years
Zendaya was still a teenager when she began working professionally.
Her parents helped manage her education and daily responsibilities.
Claire remained committed to her teaching career in Oakland.
Kazembe accompanied Zendaya to Los Angeles for work.
This arrangement allowed both parents to contribute in different ways.
Claire supported her daughter while continuing her own professional responsibilities.
Balancing School and Entertainment
Young actors often need to balance filming with education.
Zendaya’s parents considered schooling important.
They encouraged her to take academic responsibilities seriously.
This emphasis helped create structure during her early entertainment career.
Claire’s background as a teacher was particularly relevant.
She understood the value of continuing education while developing other skills.
Claire Stoermer Is Zendaya’s Mother
Zendaya’s full name is Zendaya Maree Stoermer Coleman.
She was born on September 1, 1996, in Oakland, California.
She is the only child Claire and Kazembe have together.
Zendaya later became internationally famous through television, movies, music, and fashion.
Zendaya’s Rise to Hollywood Fame
After Shake It Up, Zendaya starred in the Disney Channel series K.C. Undercover.
She later moved into major film productions.
Her movies include Spider-Man: Homecoming, Spider-Man: Far From Home, Spider-Man: No Way Home, Dune, Dune: Part Two, and Challengers.
She also became famous for portraying Rue Bennett in HBO’s Euphoria.
Her performance earned major industry recognition, including Primetime Emmy Awards.
Throughout her success, Zendaya has continued expressing appreciation for her parents.
A Close Mother-Daughter Relationship
Claire and Zendaya have appeared together at public events.
They have also shared photographs celebrating birthdays and family occasions.
Zendaya frequently speaks positively about the values her mother taught her.
Their relationship reflects years of support before and after fame.
However, they do not share every private family detail publicly.
Claire generally maintains a quieter lifestyle than her daughter.
Who Is Claire Stoermer’s Former Husband?
Claire Stoermer was married to Kazembe Ajamu Coleman.
Kazembe is Zendaya’s father.
He previously worked as a teacher before becoming involved in managing his daughter’s entertainment career.
His role included helping Zendaya navigate auditions, professional commitments, and publicity.
Who Is Kazembe Ajamu Coleman?
Kazembe is an American former teacher and entertainment manager.
He became more widely recognized after Zendaya’s success.
During her early acting career, he helped manage professional responsibilities.
He also accompanied her to events and filming locations.
His work allowed Claire to continue teaching while their daughter pursued acting opportunities in Los Angeles.
Their Marriage and Family
Claire and Kazembe shared responsibilities for raising Zendaya.
They both worked in education.
Their common professional background influenced their approach to parenting.
However, their romantic relationship eventually ended.
The separation became public in 2016.
Despite the divorce, both continued supporting their daughter.
Claire Stoermer and Kazembe Coleman Divorced in 2016
In August 2016, news emerged that Claire had filed for divorce.
Reports stated that the couple had been married for approximately eight years.
However, Zendaya later explained that her parents had already been separated for some time.
The divorce attracted considerable media attention.
Zendaya Responded to the News
Zendaya addressed the situation through social media.
She explained that her parents remained friendly.
She also emphasized that her family valued privacy.
Her response helped clarify that the legal divorce did not mean the family had suddenly stopped supporting one another.
Did the Divorce Affect Zendaya’s Relationship With Her Parents?
There is no reliable evidence that Zendaya became estranged from either parent because of the divorce.
She has continued appearing with Claire and Kazembe.
She has also expressed appreciation for both.
Their family arrangement demonstrates that former spouses can continue participating in important moments involving their children.
However, the exact private details of their relationship remain confidential.
Does Claire Stoermer Have Other Children?
Claire has one publicly documented biological child with Kazembe: Zendaya.
However, Zendaya has five older paternal half-siblings from her father’s earlier marriage.
They are Katianna, Annabella, Kaylee, Austin, and Julien Coleman.
Zendaya’s Older Half-Siblings
Zendaya has spoken about the importance of her larger family.
She has described learning from her older siblings.
Some of them have children of their own.
This made Zendaya an aunt while she was still relatively young.
Her family relationships have remained important despite her demanding entertainment schedule.
Claire’s Role in the Extended Family
Claire is Zendaya’s mother.
The five older siblings are Kazembe’s children from an earlier relationship.
They should not automatically be described as Claire’s biological children.
Although families can develop close relationships through marriage, specific family connections should be described accurately.
Claire’s documented role is as Zendaya’s mother.
Claire Stoermer Created Kizzmet Jewelry
After years in education, Claire developed another professional interest.
She established a handmade jewelry business called Kizzmet Jewelry.
The brand focuses on jewelry incorporating natural materials.
Its products include necklaces, bracelets, and other accessories.
The designs often feature crystals and stones.
What Is Kizzmet Jewelry?
Kizzmet Jewelry is associated with handcrafted accessories.
Claire creates pieces using materials such as gemstones, crystals, and metals.
The products reflect her interest in individual designs.
Unlike mass-produced accessories, handmade jewelry may involve assembling each item separately.
The business became more widely known after Zendaya promoted her mother’s work.
Zendaya Supported the Jewelry Brand
Zendaya has worn pieces created by Claire.
She has also mentioned the brand on social media.
In 2016, Zendaya publicly praised her mother’s jewelry-making skills.
Her support introduced the products to a much larger audience.
However, the business remains Claire’s own creative venture.
Why the Business Is Important
Kizzmet Jewelry represents a different stage of Claire’s career.
She spent years working in education.
Later, she developed a business connected with design and creativity.
Her professional path demonstrates that people can explore new interests after establishing themselves in another field.
However, the company’s exact current sales figures and financial performance are not publicly available.
Claire Stoermer’s Personal Style
Claire has attracted attention for her simple and practical fashion choices.
Her style often differs from the elaborate designer outfits worn by celebrities on red carpets.
She frequently appears in comfortable clothing.
She has also been photographed wearing handmade jewelry.
Zendaya Learned an Important Lesson About Beauty
Zendaya has discussed how her mother’s attitude toward appearance influenced her.
In a 2019 interview with Vanity Fair, she explained that Claire rarely wore makeup.
Zendaya viewed this as an example of confidence.
She learned that beauty did not need to follow one particular standard.
The lesson became especially relevant as Zendaya entered the fashion and entertainment industries.
A Different Approach to Fame
Claire does not appear to seek the same level of public attention as her daughter.
Although she attends selected events, she maintains her own lifestyle.
Her interests include education, jewelry, and family activities.
This independence has become part of the public image associated with her.
Claire Stoermer and Zendaya’s Red-Carpet Appearances
Claire has attended several entertainment events with Zendaya.
These appearances include award ceremonies, premieres, and industry celebrations.
They have been photographed together on numerous occasions.
Supporting Zendaya’s Achievements
Zendaya has received major awards for acting.
Her work on Euphoria earned her Primetime Emmy recognition.
Claire has celebrated important professional milestones with her daughter.
However, attending an event does not mean she participates in managing every aspect of Zendaya’s career.
Her role is primarily that of a supportive parent.
Their Relationship in Public
Photographs of the two often show a warm family connection.
Zendaya has spoken with affection about her mother.
Claire has also shared birthday tributes and supportive messages.
Their interactions reflect a relationship that existed long before the actress became famous.
Claire Stoermer and Tom Holland
Interest in Claire increased after Zendaya’s relationship with actor Tom Holland became public.
Holland is best known for portraying Spider-Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
He and Zendaya first worked together on Spider-Man: Homecoming.
Their relationship eventually attracted significant entertainment coverage.
Does Claire Know Tom Holland?
Claire has been photographed in connection with Zendaya’s personal and professional life.
She has also been mentioned in reporting about the couple’s relationship.
However, her private opinions about Holland are not extensively documented.
It would be inaccurate to invent conversations or personal statements about their relationship.
Engagement and Marriage Reports in 2026
Zendaya and Holland’s engagement became public in early 2025.
During March 2026, additional marriage speculation emerged after comments from stylist Law Roach.
Claire reacted publicly to the reports through social media.
However, private family details and the exact circumstances of any wedding should not be presented as established without direct confirmation.
The important point for Claire’s biography is that she remains an important person in Zendaya’s life as her daughter reaches new personal milestones.
Claire Stoermer’s Net Worth in 2026
Claire has earned income through teaching and her jewelry business.
However, her exact personal net worth is not independently verified.
Some celebrity biography websites publish estimates ranging from several hundred thousand dollars to a few million.
These figures are generally unsupported by reliable financial records.
Is Claire Wealthy Because of Zendaya?
Zendaya has earned substantial income through acting, fashion partnerships, and other entertainment projects.
However, her professional wealth should not automatically be treated as Claire’s personal net worth.
Claire has her own career history.
Her personal assets, business ownership value, and financial arrangements remain private.
Therefore, Claire Stoermer’s exact net worth in 2026 is publicly unknown.
What Is Claire Stoermer Doing in 2026?
As of November 2026, Claire remains publicly recognized as Zendaya’s mother and the founder of Kizzmet Jewelry.
She is no longer primarily known for classroom teaching.
Her professional identity includes jewelry design and past work in education.
However, her exact current business schedule and daily activities have not been independently documented.
Her Life Away From Hollywood
Claire generally maintains a private lifestyle.
She occasionally appears in family photographs and entertainment coverage.
However, she does not regularly participate in celebrity interviews.
Her career and personal activities receive less media attention than Zendaya’s.
This allows her to maintain some separation between family life and Hollywood publicity.
Interesting Facts About Claire Stoermer
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Claire Stoermer’s full name is Claire Marie Stoermer.
-
She is the mother of actress Zendaya.
-
She previously worked as a teacher in Oakland, California.
-
She taught children in schools with limited resources.
-
She encouraged students to explore literature, arts, and nature.
-
She worked at the California Shakespeare Theater.
-
Zendaya spent time at the theater during childhood.
-
Claire worked multiple jobs to support her family.
-
Zendaya has credited her mother with inspiring her appreciation for education.
-
Claire was married to Kazembe Ajamu Coleman.
-
Their divorce became public in August 2016.
-
Zendaya is their only child together.
-
Zendaya has five older paternal half-siblings.
-
Claire founded Kizzmet Jewelry.
-
Zendaya has promoted her mother’s handmade jewelry.
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Claire’s exact personal net worth has not been publicly confirmed.
Why Claire Stoermer’s Story Attracts Attention
Claire’s name attracts interest because Zendaya has become one of Hollywood’s most recognizable performers.
However, her own story is meaningful.
She spent years teaching children who faced limited educational opportunities.
She also worked at a theater to provide additional income for her family.
That second job helped expose Zendaya to professional acting.
Later, Claire supported her daughter’s career while continuing her responsibilities as a teacher.
She eventually developed her own jewelry business.
These experiences demonstrate how important family support can be during the early stages of a creative career.
Claire did not become famous through acting or music.
Instead, her public recognition grew from her dedication to family, education, and independent creative work.
Final Thoughts
Claire Stoermer has played an important role in Zendaya’s life and career.
Before Hollywood fame, she worked as a teacher in Oakland, California.
Her commitment to education influenced both her students and her daughter.
She also worked at the California Shakespeare Theater, where Zendaya developed an early interest in acting.
As Zendaya began attending auditions, Claire continued supporting the family through her professional work.
Although Claire and Kazembe Ajamu Coleman divorced in 2016, they maintained a friendly relationship and continued supporting their daughter.
Claire later established Kizzmet Jewelry, expanding her career into handmade accessories and entrepreneurship.
In 2026, she remains known as a former teacher, jewelry designer, and mother of one of Hollywood’s most recognizable actresses.
Her exact age and personal finances are not fully verified.
However, her contributions to education, family life, and Zendaya’s development are well documented.
Claire Stoermer’s story demonstrates how dedication, creativity, and family support can influence a person’s future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Claire Stoermer
1. Who is Claire Stoermer?
Claire Stoermer is an American former teacher and jewelry designer. She is best known as the mother of actress and singer Zendaya.
2. How old is Claire Stoermer in 2026?
She is commonly reported to be 62 years old, based on a reported March 24, 1964, birthday. However, her exact birth date has not been independently verified.
3. What does Claire Stoermer do for a living?
Claire previously worked as a schoolteacher in Oakland. She later established a handmade jewelry business called Kizzmet Jewelry.
4. Who was Claire Stoermer married to?
She was married to Kazembe Ajamu Coleman, Zendaya’s father. Their divorce became public in August 2016.
5. How many children does Claire Stoermer have?
Claire has one publicly documented biological child, Zendaya. Her former husband has five older children from a previous marriage.
6. Did Claire Stoermer work at a Shakespeare theater?
Yes. Claire worked as a house manager at the California Shakespeare Theater. Zendaya often accompanied her mother and watched performances during childhood.
7. What is Kizzmet Jewelry?
Kizzmet Jewelry is Claire Stoermer’s handmade jewelry business. Its designs incorporate crystals, gemstones, and other decorative materials.
8. Is Claire Stoermer still married in 2026?
Claire divorced Kazembe Ajamu Coleman in 2016. There is no widely verified public announcement confirming a later marriage.
9. What is Claire Stoermer’s net worth?
Her exact net worth has not been independently verified. Public estimates vary and should not be treated as confirmed financial information.
10. What is Claire Stoermer doing in 2026?
Claire remains associated with Kizzmet Jewelry and is publicly recognized for her teaching background and close relationship with Zendaya. Her exact daily business activities remain private.
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