Early Life and Parents
Nicki Minaj was born Onika Tanya Maraj in Saint James, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. Her father, Robert Maraj, worked in financial services and her mother, Carol Maraj, worked in the entertainment industry. The family moved to Queens, New York, when Nicki was a child.
Siblings and Extended Family
Nicki Minaj has one younger brother, Jelani Maraj, and several half-siblings from her parents’ previous relationships. She has spoken publicly about her close relationship with her mother and has credited her family with shaping her work ethic.
Family Influence on Career
Nicki Minaj’s family background is often cited in profiles of her rise to fame. Her parents supported her early ambitions in music and performance. For more background, see her biography on Biography.com.
