Dennis Ombachi awarded Sh3.2 million by TikTok, here is why

Former Kenya 7s player Dennis Ombachi aka the Roaming Chef has been awarded at least Sh3.2 million ($25000) after being included in the TikTok Change Makers Program.

Ombachi was chosen among 50 individuals worldwide as a purpose-driven content creator.

TikTok named Ombachi as part of the program designed to support selected creators globally.

While launching the Sh131 million program, TikTok stated that the initiative would benefit over 30 global and local non-profit organizations supporting various important causes.

Each Changemaker will receive a Sh3.2 million ($25,000) direct donation to support their advocacy efforts, thereby enhancing the impact of their work.

“Through the Grant, we are donating over $1 million to over 30 global and local non-profit organizations, making a $25,000 direct donation in honor of every Change Maker to support their respective advocacies while elevating the impact of their work,” TikTok said.

During the program’s launch, TikTok recognized Ombachi as a purpose-driven creator who has significantly impacted and inspired his audience on TikTok and beyond.

Dennis has inspired many by regularly distributing meals to underprivileged people across Nairobi.

The former rugby player, with a TikTok following of 2.3 million, reinvented himself as a social media star with a global fan base after an injury ended his sports career.

“This program is in line with our continued commitment to spotlight and amplify the inspiring work of social impact creators and non-profit organizations around the world, as they continue to create positive impact on TikTok and beyond,” they added.

“To officially launch this program, we are celebrating and unveiling our inaugural global list of TikTok Change Makers, comprising 50 purpose-driven creators from around the world,".

The program is powered by the TikTok Change Makers Grant.

Dennis, a self-taught chef and former international rugby sevens player, is renowned for his trademark monosyllabic commentary "Done!" and boasts a following of 2.3 million.

Dennis reinvented himself as a social media star with a global fan base after an injury ended his rugby career.

Following a diagnosis of bipolar disorder in 2018, he turned to cooking to maintain his mental health. During the pandemic, he focused on creating cooking content, keeping his videos "short and snappy."

In 2022, he received the TikTok Award for Best African Content Creator.

He is partnering with the local non-profit organisation Mtoto News, a digital and media platform that prioritises finding ways to give young people a voice in the digital/tech industry, focusing on their input in making online platforms safer for all.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Dennis Ombachi and TikTok to amplify children's voices across Africa. This collaboration will ensure that the perspectives of African children on crucial issues such as Climate Change, Education, and Digital Wellbeing are heard loud and clear. Together, we are committed to empowering the next generation and ensuring their voices make a difference,” said Jennifer Kaberi, CEO of Mtoto News.