In the era of the internet and social media, celebrity moms are often portrayed as epitomes of perfection.
Singers Wahu Kagwi and Nadia Mukami spoke to this Pulse writer about how they approach motherhood, despite being in the public limelight.
Wahu Kagwi with her 2nd born daughter Nyakio Mathenge. Nadia Mukami with her son Haseeb Kai
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Their flawless appearances on red carpets, lavish lifestyles, and seemingly effortless juggling of careers & family life can create an illusion that fame and fortune shield them from the trials ordinary mothers encounter.
However, motherhood is a journey that transcends all boundaries of fame, wealth, and status.
Behind their perfect Instagram posts, celebrity mothers face challenges that cannot be solved by their societal status, like trying to keep their children safe & healthy, navigating the ups and downs of their children's education & social lives, and trying to find time for themselves amidst it all.
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This writer had the opportunity to speak with singers Wahu Kagwi and Nadia Mukami, who shared the challenges they face in the public limelight while striving to be the best mothers to their children.
Wahu prioritises raising socially responsible children and healthy emotional attachment to children
Wahu, a mother of three, is among the few celebrity mothers whose children's and family's lives have been fully exposed to the public eye.
Despite the constant scrutiny, Wahu has managed to achieve tremendous success in her career while still juggling the responsibilities of raising her children and prioritising her family with hubby David Mathenge (Nameless).
Wahu, Nameless and their children Tumiso and Nyakio
Wahu, Nameless and their children Tumiso and Nyakio
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She emphasizes the importance of raising socially responsible children who will fulfill their purpose. A value that cannot be instilled through fame and influence alone.
"The most important thing for me is to raise kids who are going to be productive and balanced in life and achieve their purpose.
"Mine is to ensure they are not affected by the attention they receive wherever they go because it can be a problem," says Wahu.
The 'Sweet Love' crooner also values an emotional connection with her children and understands the significance of connecting to their emotions and feelings.
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She believes that this connection does not depend on a mom's societal status or financial capability, adding that fame and money cannot guarantee a parent this connection with their children.
"What a kid remembers in their life is not about how famous their parent was, it's about how they related," Wahu emphasises.
Wahu during her daughter's 8th birthday
Nameless & Wahu holds an exquisite party for daughter as she turns 8 [Photos]
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Wahu acknowledges the abundance of information available regarding celebrity parents, some of which may be true or untrue, and she recognises that this is something beyond her control at times.
Nadia Mukami on creating memories with Kai
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For songstress Nadia Mukami, time is a precious commodity that cannot be bought with fame and wealth.
As a mother to her young son, Haseeb Kai - who recently celebrated his first birthday - Nadia believes that once the time is lost, it is irrecoverable.
Therefore, she emphasizes the need to be intentional about creating lasting memories with children.
"Once you lose proper bonding with your child, even if you are busy when they are growing, no matter how famous or wealthy you are, you can't buy that back. Create memories with your children," says Nadia.
Nadia Mukami, Arrow Bwoy and their son Haseeb Kai
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Nadia also highlights that status and wealth cannot substitute good parenting nor should they determine how one raises a child.
Like all other parents, raising children is a process that has no precise formula. The 'Kai Wangu' singer advises taking it one day at a time, following motherly instincts, and avoiding comparisons with other children.
"One day at a time has worked for me, I learned that kids are different and following motherly instincts is important. Don't get caught up in comparing your own children to other children," Nadia advised.
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In the age of the internet, Nadia emphasises the importance of parents protecting their children from excessive exposure to gadgets and social media.
She cautions that these factors can significantly influence their development and have irreversible effects on their lives.
