Claire Stoermer is known around the world because she is the mother of actress Zendaya, but her own story is full of dedication, education, creativity, and quiet strength. Long before Zendaya became a global star, claire stoermer spent years working as a teacher and theater manager, shaping the values that helped Zendaya succeed in Hollywood. Her parenting style, discipline, and emotional support became the foundation of Zendaya’s growth. To understand Zendaya’s success, we must first understand the influence of claire stoermer, the woman who guided her from childhood to fame.
Quick Bio of Claire Stoermer
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Claire Marie Stoermer |
| Birthday | March 24, 1964 |
| Age | 61 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Oakland, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | German, Scottish, English heritage |
| Profession | Teacher, Theater Manager, Jewelry Designer |
| Known For | Mother of Zendaya |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Husband (Ex) | Kazembe Ajamu Coleman |
| Children | Zendaya (biological), 5 stepchildren |
| Business | Kizzmet Jewelry |
| Current Residence | California, USA |
Early Life and Family Background
Claire Stoermer was born on March 24, 1964, in Oakland, California. She grew up in a large household with parents Philip Hillary Stoermer and Daphne Carol Whitelaw, and several siblings. Her heritage mixes German, Scottish, and English roots. From an early age, she showed interest in learning, responsibility, and helping others.
She completed her early education at Oakland High School and later attended Santa Clara University, where she developed a deeper interest in teaching and childhood development. These early experiences prepared her for the meaningful roles she would later take on.
Career as a Dedicated Teacher
For many years, claire stoermer worked as a teacher in the Oakland Unified School District, especially at Fruitvale Elementary School. She taught young children reading, writing, and communication skills. Her patient teaching style and her ability to connect with children made her a respected educator.

Zendaya has shared that watching her mother work as a teacher inspired her sense of discipline and empathy. Claire often stayed after school to give extra help to students who needed support. Her classroom became a place of trust and encouragement, shaping the lives of many children.
Work at California Shakespeare Theater
Outside of school, claire stoermer also worked for the California Shakespeare Theater in Orinda, California. She served as a house manager, helping run productions and guiding guests and volunteers. This job introduced her to the world of performing arts and gave Zendaya early exposure to live theater.
Zendaya spent her childhood at the theater, watching shows and observing skilled actors. These moments inspired her interest in acting. Being in that environment opened opportunities for Zendaya to join youth acting groups and learn confidence on stage. Without claire stoermer, Zendaya likely would not have discovered her passion for performing so early.
Age, Height, and Appearance
Fans often want personal details like claire stoermer height and claire stoermer age. She is 61 years old as of 2025. Her height is around 5 feet 6 inches (about 168 cm). She has a healthy and natural appearance, often choosing simple and elegant clothing.
People sometimes search for weight loss Claire Stoermer, but there is no major public change. She simply leads an active lifestyle and stays healthy. Her tall posture and calm confidence make her stand out in photos with Zendaya.
Marriage to Kazembe Ajamu Coleman
Claire Stoermer husband was Kazembe Ajamu Coleman, Zendaya’s father. They met while both were working in education. Kazembe, originally named Samuel David Coleman, later changed his name to honor his African heritage. They married in 2008, although Zendaya was already 12 years old at the time.
Kazembe and claire stoermer supported Zendaya together. As Zendaya’s career grew, Kazembe acted as her manager, while Claire provided emotional structure and balance. In 2016, Claire filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, but both parents continue to support Zendaya and remain on respectful terms.
Claire Stoermer and Zendaya’s Siblings
Fans search phrases like claire stoermer kids and Zendaya siblings Claire Stoermer because they want to understand the family. Claire Stoermer has one biological child, Zendaya.
However, Zendaya has five half-siblings from her father’s earlier relationship:
- Katianna Coleman
- Kaylee Coleman
- Annabella Coleman
- Austin Coleman
- Julien Coleman
Claire acts as their stepmother, and the family is close. Zendaya often says that having older siblings helped her learn responsibility and maturity while growing up.
A Young Claire Stoermer and Zendaya’s Early Childhood
Photos of claire stoermer young show a woman with long hair, kind eyes, and a strong sense of purpose. She raised Zendaya in Oakland, a city full of culture and diversity. Zendaya grew up in an environment filled with learning, theater, and community involvement.
Claire made sure Zendaya stayed grounded. Schoolwork always came first, even when acting opportunities appeared. Zendaya learned early to balance fun with responsibility, a rare skill for a young performer.
Moving to Los Angeles for Zendaya’s Career
Zendaya began acting in community theater, then moved into commercials and small roles. When she was cast in the Disney Channel series “Shake It Up”, the family moved to Los Angeles.
This transition was dramatic, but claire stoermer kept Zendaya focused and organized. She attended filming sessions, stayed nearby during long workdays, and guided Zendaya through her early fame. While some child actors lose direction, Zendaya stayed grounded thanks to her mother’s guidance.
Claire Stoermer’s Influence on Zendaya’s Success
Zendaya often credits her mother for her success. Claire Stoermer taught her how to work hard, stay humble, and treat people kindly. These traits are visible in Zendaya’s behavior in Hollywood.
Her influence appears in Zendaya’s largest projects:
- Euphoria
- Dune
- Spider-Man: Homecoming
- The Greatest Showman
Zendaya carries herself with professionalism, confidence, and humility qualities she learned from her mother. Many fans admire Zendaya not only for her acting but for her character, which was shaped by claire stoermer.
Business Journey: Kizzmet Jewelry
Today, claire stoermer runs Kizzmet Jewelry, a brand she created using crystals, gemstones, and creative metal designs. Her style is natural and spiritual, reflecting her personality.
Zendaya frequently supports the brand by wearing her mother’s jewelry at events and posting photos online. This exposure has helped the business reach fans around the world.
Kizzmet Jewelry gives Claire a creative outlet and allows her to maintain her independence and identity.
Public Image and Online Presence
Claire Stoermer stays active on Instagram, sharing photos of jewelry pieces, her dogs, nature moments, and family activities. Unlike many celebrity parents, she does not chase attention. Her posts feel real, warm, and grounded.

Her followers love her honesty and simplicity. Even with Zendaya’s fame, Claire remains true to herself, which inspires respect from fans.
Net Worth and Personal Lifestyle
Estimates place claire stoermer’s net worth between $300,000 and $1 million. This income comes from teaching, theater work, and her jewelry business. She lives comfortably but modestly.
She enjoys travel, outdoor walks, spending time with Zendaya, and running her jewelry brand. Her lifestyle reflects calmness, independence, and creativity.
Parenting Style and Lasting Influence
Zendaya often talks about the powerful lessons she learned from claire stoermer. Her mother’s parenting style focused on:
- Education first
- Respect for others
- Clear boundaries
- Hard work
- Emotional awareness
These lessons helped Zendaya grow into a grounded woman who handles fame with grace. Claire encouraged Zendaya to love herself, trust her abilities, and follow her own path, not the expectations of others.
A Strong Mother–Daughter Bond
Zendaya and claire share a deep and loving bond. Zendaya celebrates her mother on social media, calling her a hero and role model. They attend events together, not only as family but as friends who support each other.
Their connection represents love, mutual respect, and teamwork. Claire continues to guide Zendaya, even as her career expands into international fame.
Why Claire Stoermer Matters
In Hollywood, success is often linked to talent, but personal values shape the person behind the fame. Claire Stoermer taught Zendaya how to grow with humility, work hard, and stay emotionally balanced. Without Claire’s influence, Zendaya’s path might have been very different.
Claire remains a private force who shaped one of the most respected young actresses in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Claire Stoermer?
Claire Stoermer is a teacher, theater manager, jewelry designer, and the mother of actress Zendaya.
2. How old is Claire Stoermer?
She was born on March 24, 1964, making her 61 years old as of 2025.
3. What does Claire Stoermer do for a living today?
She runs her jewelry brand Kizzmet Jewelry and remains active on social media.
4. How many children does Claire Stoermer have?
She has one biological daughter, Zendaya, and is a stepmother to Zendaya’s five half-siblings.
5. How tall is Claire Stoermer?
Claire Stoermer is about 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall.
Final Thoughts
Claire Stoermer is more than just Zendaya’s mother. She is a teacher, theater professional, entrepreneur, and guiding voice in her daughter’s life. Her dedication, structure, and love helped Zendaya become confident, respectful, and successful.
Behind Zendaya’s achievements stands claire stoermer, a woman whose influence quietly shaped a global superstar. Her story is one of strength, guidance, and grace a reminder that the people behind the spotlight often play the biggest roles of all.
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