Gladys Boss Shollei, Kenya’s Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly and Uasin Gishu Woman Representative, has shared a candid account of her personal journey — revealing how she found love again with Neil Horn, a man she first dated during her university years.
Love Rekindled After Divorce
Shollei disclosed that she first met Horn while studying at the University of Cape Town, where they briefly dated before life took them on separate paths. She later married journalist Sam Shollei, with whom she had four children. Their marriage ended in divorce, and in 2023 she chose to rekindle her earlier connection with Horn, eventually marrying him.
Reflecting on her past, she shared: “I had my first marriage many years ago. I had three children from that marriage and a fourth one. That marriage fell apart, and yes, I moved on. I am now married to someone I have always known.”
A Multi-Layered Wedding Celebration
Her second wedding reflected her diverse life experiences. She celebrated with a traditional ceremony in Kenya, a white wedding in Cape Town, and a more intimate gathering back home for family members who couldn’t travel. She credited her circle of close friends — her “Olivia Popes” — for planning and executing the celebrations with elegance.
Balancing Leadership and Personal Life
Beyond her love story, Shollei highlighted the challenges women face in juggling career, family, and personal happiness. As one of Kenya’s most prominent female leaders, she acknowledged that women in leadership often carry heavy responsibilities. Her message: embrace transitions with grace and resilience, and learn from each other’s journeys.
Public Reactions
Her openness has drawn mixed reactions. Many praised her courage to move forward after divorce, seeing her as a symbol of resilience. Others criticized her private choices, underscoring the scrutiny women in leadership often face. But Shollei has remained consistent — for her, authenticity is non-negotiable.
Family Milestones
Even as she navigates politics, Shollei continues to celebrate her family’s milestones. She recently attended the wedding of her son, Lawrence Kogos, who tied the knot with Joy Chepitleh in a colorful event graced by top political leaders. She also proudly marked her younger son Korom Arap Shollei’s rite of passage into manhood, describing it as a God-guided milestone.
A Woman Beyond Politics
Through her candid revelations, Gladys Boss Shollei has offered Kenyans a rare glimpse into the woman behind the politician — one who has weathered heartbreak, embraced second chances, and continues to balance leadership with the joys and challenges of family life.
