Student Profile
| Name: | Gaella Mwadi Kabeya |
| Gender: | Female |
| Date of birth: | 10th February 1994 |
| Place of birth: | Lusaka, Zambia |
| Mother: | Francine Kabeya |
| Profession: | Housewife |
| Father: | Constatino Kabeya |
| Profession: | Carpenter |
Family Background:
The Kabeya Family fled to Zambia from the nation currently known as the Democratic Republic of Congo on the 16th of January 1997, following the violent overthrow of Mobutu Sese Seko, the Congolese President. Tribal fighting and ethnical cleansing had erupted in the areas around Lubumbashi, where the Kabeya's lived, forcing them to flee across the Zambian border. Upon arrival in Zambia, the family had a difficult time establishing themselves, but did manage to set up a curio business. Unfortunately, Constatino was falsely accused of dealing in items considered to be national treasure and consequently imprisoned in 2003. He was released on bail but judgment was passed and he was imprisoned again. However, Constatino was later released on an appeal due to a lack of evidence. In the long legal process, Constatino lost all his business and income. His curio shop was seized on the pretext that he was a foreigner. He has tried to appeal to the Zambian government for assistance in repossessing his shop, but his case has still not been considered.
The Kabeya's have five children, the oldest being fifteen and the youngest two years old. Life in Zambia as a refugee is not easy, but they hope to provide their children with opportunities to succeed. They are God-fearing people who attend church every Sunday. Furthermore, both Constatino and Francine hold responsible positions in the local church organization. Unfortunately, as a refugee, it is difficult for them to get jobs. The family is being sustained by the mother's business, in which she sells simple hardware materials.
Gaella's older brother is in Grade 9 and the family is struggling to afford the tuition fees. When Gaella finishes grade 7, the Kabeya's will not have enough money to send both Gaella and her brother to school.
Gaella's Education:
Gaella started school at age five and has been a high-achieving student from the beginning. She has improved her class standing each year, and in grades 5,6, and 7, Gaella has been the top student in her class. Her favorite subjects are science, social studies, and mathematics.
She is also an active leader at her school, Northmead Basic Primary. Her leadership roles include: organizing cultural dance programs, being a regular assembly presenter, and writing class plays. Gaella has also been involved in many drama presentations at her church, in which she is often the leading role.
Outside of the classroom, Gaella enjoys volleyball and track. She runs the 100 meters, relays, as well as participating in the High Jump and Long Jump. She excels in track and often finishes first in her races and jump contests.
Gaella's Interests:
Gaella is interested in dancing, sports, reading books, swimming and watching television.
What her teachers think of her:
Gaella's teachers think she is an extremely intelligent child and regard her as the pupil who is most likely to succeed in the whole class. They say she is destined to go to university and is the kind of student who would win a scholarship to pursue further studies. The teachers note her outstanding leadership.