A Love Defying Borders: Jay-Jay Feeney and Minou’s Immigration Victory

After a long and emotional battle with New Zealand’s immigration system, Algerian partner Minou has been granted a vital visa, allowing him to stay in Auckland. This decision marks a significant turning point for the couple, who have navigated a complex relationship shaped by cultural, religious, and legal differences.

Jay-Jay Feeney, a well-known Kiwi radio host and podcast producer, met Minou in 2018 through a Facebook message. Despite their vastly different backgrounds—Jay-Jay is a New Zealand-born atheist, while Minou hails from a conservative Muslim family in Algeria—their bond has grown over the years. They spent holidays together in the Maldives and Malaysia, and Minou eventually moved to New Zealand in 2019 for Christmas. However, the global pandemic disrupted their plans, forcing them to part ways in 2020.

Reconnecting in early 2025 after Jay-Jay ended a previous relationship, the couple reunited in Bali, reigniting their love. Minou, now 32, has faced immense challenges in navigating New Zealand’s immigration system. In Algeria, same-sex relationships are illegal, and social norms often restrict interactions between men and women. Minou’s decision to be in a long-term relationship with a woman is both personal and courageous.

Despite these challenges, Minou has found a more open and accepting environment in Auckland. Since arriving in June, he has become a regular at the local mosque, joined a gym, explored the city, and even enjoys sightseeing on an electric scooter. Jay-Jay, who runs the Podlab podcast studio with her ex, Dominic Harvey, has been deeply moved by Minou’s affection and commitment.

The couple’s relationship has not been without controversy. Online critics have questioned their age gap and perceived motives, with many focusing on personal judgments rather than the depth of their emotional connection. Jay-Jay has expressed frustration at such intrusive opinions, especially from middle-aged men, calling them disrespectful and out of line.

Minou, who identifies as a Muslim, has shared that he loves Jay-Jay so much that he feels he has no choice but to live with her, even though it goes against his religious beliefs. Jay-Jay, an atheist, shares a lighthearted yet meaningful dynamic with Minou, often joking about religious references and the irony of his presence in New Zealand being due to immigration policies rather than divine will.

After multiple failed visa applications, Minou was granted a visitor visa in June, allowing him to stay in Auckland for 10 weeks. This time has allowed the couple to enjoy everyday, normal couple activities—cooking, watching TV, and simply being together—proving the strength and authenticity of their bond.

As of September 2025, the couple is now on hold from a planned separation, with Minou’s partnership work visa application being reviewed. If approved, he will be able to stay in New Zealand for a year and secure employment. Jay-Jay describes the experience as both emotionally overwhelming and deeply fulfilling, saying she feels safe and loved in Minou’s presence.

While the future remains uncertain, the couple is focused on enjoying their time together and growing their relationship, with no intention of rushing into marriage, though Minou has expressed a strong desire to marry Jay-Jay if given the opportunity.

The story highlights the challenges of cross-cultural relationships, the emotional toll of immigration processes, and the resilience of love in the face of societal and legal barriers. It also underscores the importance of empathy, understanding, and the power of human connection in overcoming adversity.