In an era where youth are often urged to wait their turn, Rhoda Kavutha Mwongela-better known across Murang’a University and Central Kenya as Bossbaby-is making it clear: the time for young leaders is now.
At just 24, Bossbaby has been appointed the new Private Secretary and Senior Office Administrator in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Murang’a County. Her appointment has been widely celebrated by students, former lecturers, mental health advocates, and fellow Gen Z change-makers as a reflection of what young people can achieve when purpose meets opportunity.
A graduate of Murang’a University with a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics and Communication, she is currently pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication. But beyond her academic accomplishments, it is her deep commitment to youth mental health that earned her admiration long before this milestone.
A Movement Called “Let’s Talk with Bossbaby”
In 2021, while still a student, Kavutha began holding open mental health conversations under the tagline “Let’s Talk with Bossbaby.” What began as simple peer-led forums quickly evolved into a powerful student-led movement tackling depression, anxiety, and trauma-issues many faced in silence.
Her approach was open, compassionate, and deeply relatable. At Murang’a University, she became known as a safe space. From lecture halls to hostel corridors, her name became synonymous with healing, empathy, and action. Across Central Kenya, especially among the youth, if a mental health discussion was taking place, chances were Bossbaby was involved-or at least mentioned.
She was also a member of the university’s Peer Counseling Group, helping bridge the gap between struggling students and professional support. Though she dipped her toes into student politics, it was her unwavering advocacy in mental health that made her stand out and cemented her legacy on campus.
Celebrated by Her Own
Those who walked alongside her academic journey are proud to see her take this next step. Murang’a University itself has taken great pride in her appointment. Her department chair, Dr. John Ndavula, who guided her academic journey, was among the first to publicly congratulate her. He must be proud, having witnessed her growth from student to servant leader.
Her story serves as a powerful reminder that campus leadership, when rooted in service, can lay the foundation for national impact.
Bossbaby’s appointment isn’t just a personal triumph-it’s a generational shift. Gen Z is beginning to shape Kenya’s governance landscape with empathy, tech-savviness, and boldness. For many young people, her rise represents what’s possible with grit and community service. Bossbaby is proud of the office of the Governor and deputy governor for giving youths job opportunities especially for the highest offices like hers.
Resilience That Speaks Volumes
From volunteering at the Murang’a County Press Unit, to organizing student mental health campaigns, to now working inside the Deputy Governor’s office – Bossbaby’s story is one of focus, resilience, and purpose.
She made history as the first female student to vie for Chairperson of the Murang’a University Student Association -a bold move that inspired many and set her apart as a fearless, visionary leader on campus.
Her journey continues to inspire a generation that often feels unseen. Through her, young people are learning that you don’t need to be loud to lead – you just need to be consistent, courageous, and true to your cause.
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