Ruhila Adatia-Sood, born on August 29, 1982, and tragically passing on September 21, 2013, was a Kenyan television and radio presenter and journalist of Indian heritage. Her legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Ruhila Adatia-Sood was born and raised in Kitisuru, Nairobi. Her upbringing in a vibrant and diverse community instilled in her a deep appreciation for different cultures and perspectives.
Ruhila Adatia-Sood graduated from the Aga Khan Academy in Nairobi, where her passion for media and communication began to take shape. In 2007, she completed her studies at Rhodes University in Grahamstown, South Africa, further honing her skills and preparing for a career in journalism.
Career Beginnings of Ruhila Adatia-Sood
Upon returning to Kenya, Ruhila joined the Kenya Radio Africa Group, where she quickly made a name for herself as a dynamic and engaging news presenter. Her work with Kiss 100 and Kiss TV showcased her versatility and ability to connect with audiences.
Ruhila Adatia-Sood also worked at Metro East FM, a radio station catering to Kenyan Asians, where she brought a unique blend of news, entertainment, and cultural programming to her listeners.
A Multifaceted Media Personality
Ruhila’s talents extended beyond news presenting. She was a co-moderator of a popular TV cooking show for children, which she hosted alongside Kamal Kaur. This show, recorded monthly at the Westgate shopping mall in Nairobi, became a beloved program for many young viewers. Her warmth and enthusiasm shone through, making cooking fun and accessible for children and their families.
Ruhila also contributed to The Star, where she wrote reviews and features on a wide range of topics, including restaurants, films, music, and books. Her blog, Ruhila’s Rara’s, was an extension of her work on air and in print, providing a platform for her to share entertainment news and personal insights. Her writing was celebrated for its wit, depth, and ability to engage readers.
Personal Life and Community Involvement
Ruhila was a proud member of Kenya’s Ismaili Muslim community. Her faith and cultural heritage were integral parts of her identity, influencing her work and personal life. In January 2012, she married Ketan Sood, a member of the USAID mission in Nairobi. Their wedding, held at the Arya Samaj Temple in Parklands, Nairobi, was a beautiful celebration of love and unity.
Tragic End and Lasting Legacy
Ruhila’s life was tragically cut short during the Westgate shopping mall attack on September 21, 2013. She was hosting a cooking competition for children on the rooftop car park when the attack occurred. Despite being wounded, Ruhila’s bravery and dedication were evident until her final moments. She passed away en route to the Aga Khan Hospital, at the age of 31, while six or seven months pregnant with her first child.
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