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 |
| Primary School: | Northmead Basic School |
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 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.
At Leopards Hill School (Grade 8):
At Leopards Hill School, Gaella has firmly established herself as one of the top students in her grade.
In Grade 8, Gaella started well but finished the year with a flourish. By the end of the 2007 academic year, Gaella earned 3rd academic position in her grade. Additionally, she won awards for excellence in Mathematics, English, History, French, Information Technology, and Environmental Science.
(Grade 9)
In Grade 9, Gaella continues to improve and demonstrate her great potential. Through the first and second academic terms, Gaella has earned the top academic position in Grade 9. Her favorite subjects are Science and Math. She is intensely focused on achieving high marks in the upcoming national examination, given to all Grade 9 students in November.
At the 2008 Awards ceremony held at Leopards Hill Secondary School, Gaella received awards for 1st position in Geography, Office Practice, Information Technology, French, and Civics. She also received awards for 2nd position in Science and Religious Education.
Gaella's Interests:
Gaella is a highly active participant and leader outside of the classroom. She is an active member of many different student clubs, including – JETS Club (advanced science club), the board games club, and an acapella singing group. Gaella is also involved with many different drama presentations at Leopards Hill School. She also maintains her interest and participation in sports. At Leopards Hill, Gaella plays basketball and soccer.
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.
Gaella's Thoughts:
“Before becoming part of KF, I was not able to articulate myself in English and was less confident with myself. However, I am now able to articulate myself in English and my writing skills have improved tremendously…
Before coming to Leopards Hill, I was quite anti-social but now I am quite sociable and I have many friends. I am able to speak to my parents openly, and I am able to act in front of an audience, dancing and speaking fluently…
My parents have become even more supportive ever since I came to this school. My father has only missed a school meeting once. They always encourage me to work hard. My brother now looks up to me as one of his role models, and has now started working harder than ever.”