Judge Ian Mbugua has a surprising side!!! Dotting grandpa

Here’s a surprising side to Ian Mbugua... he confesses to loving every moment he spends with his two-year-old granddaughter, living a full life as a musician, teacher, husband, dad and finding joy in seeing young people transform to stars. He speaks to us  about studying theology and fun times with his family

You wear many hats; teacher, singer, actor, director, entertainer, husband, dad and grandpa... Which of those roles make you feel most fulfilled?

To be honest, each has a special place in my heart. It is heartwarming seeing the progress — no matter how small — my students make. Just getting that little boy to construct a sentence in English, having emigrated from a non English speaking country not too long ago; watching a once shy young lady belt out a song in a musical in front of a full auditorium; watching family members succeed in their various careers; spending time babysitting my beautiful granddaughter…. Words cannot describe the feeling.

Is there a chance we will be meeting Pastor Ian any time soon?

Unlikely. Theology, together with my training in Psychology come in very handy especially when I am mentoring or counseling people — which I do periodically.

What is the one difference you have noticed while raising your children and helping out with your granddaughter? Are you the good cop or the disciplinarian?

I am a bit of both. I have a good relationship with my children and we spend a lot of fun times together. We have a good understanding. They are all young adults now. My granddaughter Wandia...well, I totally spoil her. I spend time with her playing, eating, even teaching her, just like I did with my children. She turned two in June this year so she is more curious and needs, nay, demands more attention!

And how are you handling the Terrible Twos?

Just by being firm but also letting her express herself, tantrums and all. It’s just a phase, she’ll get over it. It also helps that she has joined the Early Years at Brookhouse so she gets to interact with other kids and grown-ups which has helped her grow socially.

You are currently teaching music and drama at Brookhouse Schools, how is that?

Most interesting! I teach the very young — from 3-year-olds as well as the 18 to 20-year-olds doing B Tec Music. There is never a dull moment. One lesson I’m running around with the little ones having lots of fun and laughter; the next I’m singing Bass with the B Tec students while listening keenly to ensure we’re all in key and performing like professionals. Truly satisfying.

Do you intend to continue entertaining and educating the public or do you have plans of retiring?

Retire? And do what?

As a seasoned actor, what advice would you give an upcoming actor?

Take your craft seriously. Take yourself seriously. If you don’t, then don’t expect others to take you seriously. Keep working to improve your performance. Never become complacent. Read widely. Watch other actors – it’s amazing how much one can learn about acting by watching other actors.

Today, our youth look up to ‘celebs’ as their role models. What advice would you give to our celebrities that can result in a ripple effect to our youth?

Live your life as you would like your kids to emulate. Watch what you say, how you behave, and how you treat other people. Be a good role model.

Today’s parents rarely spend time with their kids. As a parent, what advice would you give to parents on effective parenting?

The most important ‘thing’ you can give your child is time. Quality time. Spend time with them – especially during the formative years. This excuse of, ‘I’m busy working to give you all the things you need”, doesn’t hold water. Many parents try to connect with their children later in life with no success. If you’re not there during the early years – forget any meaningful relationship later in life.

What is your mantra?

Destined for greatness!

Having been married for over two decades, what advice would you share with young couples on marriages that last?

If you’re not ready to commit to ‘For better, for worse; till death do us part’, don’t get married (but if he/she beats you, get the hell out!). Don’t rush into marriage. Getting pregnant is not a reason to get married. Marry someone you have things in common with. It is a partnership with mutual respect. Discuss finances, dreams, aspirations, number of kids etc before you get married. Go for pre-marital counseling for a reasonable period of time. Learn to tolerate each other. Learn to forgive each other. Support one another in everything. Do not discuss your spouse with friends.