Nadia Jaftha reflects on her love story: 'Can't believe we went to the same high school, and never really spoke'

Vuyile Madwantsi|Published

Nadia Jaftha and Reece Meyer are engaged.

Image: Instagram

Nadia Jaftha, South Africa’s beloved content creator, has been making waves both online and offline for years.

Known for her infectious energy, creative flair and a knack for storytelling, she’s always kept fans engaged with her journey. 

But now, she’s given them something even more magical to celebrate.

Jaftha recently said “Yes!” to her longtime business partner and best friend, Reece Meyer, in what can only be described as a fairytale proposal that took social media by storm.

At 33, Jaftha has largely kept her romantic life private, especially following her public breakup with "Love Island SA" star Xavier Haupt in 2024. After an 18-month relationship that garnered attention and sympathy from fans, Jaftha openly shared her decision to split and focus on personal growth.

“We both needed to focus on our individual journeys,” she explained in a post-split interview with Good Hope FM.

Little did she know, her true partner was already walking alongside her, quietly building their shared life.

A year later, with a simple yet powerful Instagram caption, “Saying YES to my favourite chapter yet”, Jaftha accompanied her post with a carousel of dreamy, sunlit images from her Bali birthday getaway.

One photo stood out above all: her fiancé, down on one knee, as she turned to find herself swept up in a moment of pure surprise and joy.

In a heart-warming TikTok post reflecting on her journey, Jaftha revealed a surprising twist of fate: she and Meyer had gone to the same high school but barely spoke.

“Can’t believe we went to the same high school, never really spoke, but you played hockey with my sister and stayed friends with her. Only to meet up years later, start a company, build an empire together, fall in love, and now we’re engaged, what?!”

Their love story is the stuff of modern romance. What began as a professional partnership blossomed into a deep friendship and eventually, a love so secure and grounded that it’s hard not to root for them.

Meyer, a co-founder of Ace Labs, works alongside Jaftha in their entrepreneurial ventures, including the Smile Bar, a business that has brought them both professional success and, clearly, personal fulfilment.

In the now viral video shared on her social media, the couple is seen working side by side, sipping on what looks like the wellness drink du jour, matcha tea. The caption? “Brick by brick,” accompanied by the cheeky soundbite, “Daddy’s home.”

The pair’s chemistry is palpable, their shared goals are evident, and their love story is inspiring to anyone navigating careers, relationships, and the ups and downs of adulthood.

Love that feels like home

Fans have flooded Jaftha’s comment section with messages of love, admiration, and hope. One follower wrote, “Bro conquered friendzone,” to which Jaftha replied, “There is a special kind of peace you know when someone has your back 🥺🙌.”

Another commenter shared, “Seeing you smile gives me hope,” prompting Jaftha to respond, “I feel like everyone should be this happy and at peace 🤗❤️.”

In a world dominated by social media highlights, Jaftha’s willingness to share her journey, both the highs and the lows, has created a connection that feels real and relatable. Whether you’re in a relationship, hoping for love, or simply figuring out life one step at a time, her story resonates.

Her love story with Meyer is more than just a romantic narrative; it’s a testament to the power of patience, timing, and building a foundation of friendship and trust. It’s also a reminder that love can be found in unexpected places, like a high school acquaintance turned co-founder and soul mate.

The comment section said it all.“Seeing you smile gives me hope.” “Love always wins.”

“Why am I crying, you deserve this.”

And Jaftha replied to almost everyone, with grace and grounding honesty. “I have never known a love so safe and grounded.”

“There is a special kind of peace when you know someone has your back.”

“I feel like everyone should be this happy and at peace.”Jaftha has always been that girl. But now, she’s also the woman showing us that it’s okay to take the long road. To pivot. To heal. To build an empire with someone, not in spite of them.

As one supporter commented, “Why am I even crying? You deserve so much more.”

Her response? “I am so grateful for the journey that brought us here. Cannot wait for the next chapter.”

Neither can we, Nadia Jaftha. Neither can we.