From rugby star to digital advocate: Ombachi partners with Mtoto News to empower youth through digital literacy

Dennis Ombachi, a former Kenyan rugby star, has always had a passion for storytelling, even before he found himself in the digital spotlight. Having represented Kenya in the Olympics and traveled the world, Ombachi’s experiences on the rugby field and in diverse cultures have shaped his unique approach to content creation. Today, he is widely known as The Roaming Chef, where his love for food and his commitment to mental health advocacy come together on TikTok.

But his journey from professional athlete to one of Kenya’s leading digital advocates did not happen overnight. It began as a way to cope with the pressures of his sports career and the struggles of living with bipolar disorder. Inspired by chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Ombachi used cooking as a therapeutic escape, sharing his recipes and mental health journey on TikTok. “Cooking became my coping mechanism,” he says, “and I wanted to show others that mental health struggles shouldn’t stop you from living a fulfilling life.” This personal journey has now grown into something much larger, with Ombachi’s platform helping to amplify critical conversations about mental health, particularly among African youth.

As part of TikTok’s Global Change Makers Programme, Ombachi’s impact is growing even further, with his voice reaching millions worldwide. His videos, which combine food, culture, and mental health awareness, have brought people from diverse backgrounds together in ways that traditional advocacy often struggles to achieve. 

Partnering with Mtoto News

One of the most significant aspects of Ombachi’s advocacy is his partnership with Mtoto News, a child-focused organisation in Kenya dedicated to amplifying the voices of African youth. Mtoto News works to ensure that young people have a say in issues affecting their lives, including mental health, digital literacy, and education. Through workshops, storytelling, and digital literacy programmes, Mtoto News empowers children and youth to express themselves and advocate for their rights.

Ombachi’s partnership with Mtoto News, under the TikTok Change Makers Programme, is a natural extension of his work in the digital space. Together, they are helping young Africans share their stories and use platforms like TikTok to build communities around social change. “Empowering children to understand and navigate the digital world is crucial,” Ombachi explains. “They are the future, and we need to give them the tools to make informed decisions early".

The collaboration between Ombachi and Mtoto News focuses on mental health, digital literacy, and advocacy for young people across Kenya. Through their joint efforts, they have been able to amplify the voices of thousands of children, helping them to speak up about the challenges they face and providing them with resources to thrive in the modern world.

Driving Change Through TikTok

At the heart of Dennis Ombachi’s work is a strong belief in the power of digital platforms like TikTok to drive meaningful social change. “TikTok has allowed me to connect with people from all over the world,” says Ombachi. “It’s more than just a platform for entertainment – it’s a tool for education, awareness, and change".

Jennifer Kaberi, CEO of Mtoto News, echoes this sentiment: “TikTok’s reach can help us raise awareness about issues impacting young people, from mental health to online safety. We are thrilled to partner with Dennis Ombachi and TikTok. Together, we are committed to empowering the next generation and ensuring their voices are heard".

Central to this initiative is the TikTok Change Makers Grant, which will allocate over Sh129 million to more than 30 non-profit organisations worldwide, each chosen for its dedication to creating positive change. As part of this program, TikTok will honor Ombachi, celebrated for his storytelling on mental health and youth advocacy, with a Sh3.2 million donation to Mtoto News. This grant has enabled Mtoto News to expand its programs, reaching more young people in underserved communities. Through the grant, Mtoto News now offers training in media literacy, storytelling, and online safety, equipping youth with essential skills to navigate the digital landscape responsibly and safely. 

The Future of Advocacy in Kenya

Looking forward, Ombachi and Mtoto News hope to continue expanding their work across Africa. By fostering partnerships between creators, NGOs, and youth communities, they aim to build a network of advocates who can drive long-term social change.

For Dennis Ombachi, his journey from rugby player to digital advocate is just beginning. “We all have a responsibility to give back,” he says. “As public figures, we have platforms that can create real impact. It’s about more than just entertainment – it’s about using our voices to support the next generation and to make the world a better place.”

Ombachi’s work, alongside Mtoto News, exemplifies the power of digital platforms to not only inspire but also educate and empower African youth to take control of their futures. Together, they are paving the way for a brighter, more connected Kenya, where every child’s voice is heard, and every young person has the tools they need to succeed.