The document discusses Nicki Minaj's early life and background. She was born in Trinidad in 1984 to parents of mixed African, Caribbean, and South Asian heritage. Her family moved to Queens, New York when she was 5 years old. Her mother worked as a medical assistant to support the family on $200 per week, while her father struggled with drug and alcohol addiction, sometimes stealing from the family. Minaj pursued a rap career after struggling in school and working various jobs.