Early Life and Academic Promise
Born on May 20, 1974, in Muktokkicha, Oromia, Dabessa Gemelal was the youngest of eight children. His early life, marked by the traditional rural responsibilities of herding livestock, stood in stark contrast to his extraordinary academic talent. He completed primary school in just three years and consistently ranked first in his class throughout his secondary education at institutions including Qochuree Primary School, Tikur Incinni Junior Secondary School, Adaamaa Secondary School, and Atse Geladiwos Technical and Vocational School.

Pioneering Journalism and Political Persecution
Mr. Gemelal’s career began in 1994 as a reporter for the Afan Oromoo desk at Ethiopian Television (ETV). While working, he earned a Diploma in Television Journalism (1998) and advanced to editor and program coordinator. His courageous reporting on human rights violations was frequently censored.

In 2004, he was abducted and detained for three years on unsubstantiated allegations of supporting the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF). Enduring 125 court appearances before his release in March 2007, he turned his imprisonment into a period of scholarly output, authoring Daaniyaa (on Waaqeffannaa culture and religion, published in 2006) and Jaarraa Oromummaa (unpublished). Fearing renewed persecution, he fled to Nairobi in May 2007.

Exile and Sustained Advocacy in Kenya
In Nairobi, Mr. Gemelal became a central figure in the Oromo refugee community. His contributions were multifaceted:

• Prepared legal cases for refugees and provided volunteer support.
• Educated and trained activists, contributing to the Voice of Oromo Liberation.
• Organized pivotal cultural and political events, including Oromo New Year (Amajjii) and Oromo Martyrs’ Day.
• Edited and prepared influential magazines such as Dungoo, Xirroo, and Hulluuqoo.
• Co-founded Gumii Waaqeffannaa Addunyaa (The Global Waaqeffannaa Council) and taught its core principles.

Settlement and Professional Development in Australia
Settling in Australia in September 2009, Mr. Gemelal diligently rebuilt his life, earning multiple qualifications:

• Diploma of Interpreting (RMIT University, 2012)
• Diploma of Community Services Work/Case Management (Holmesglen TAFE, 2014)
• Bachelor of Social Work (Victoria University, 2019)

He has applied this expertise professionally as a Case Manager and now as a Settlement Senior Case Manager at AMES Australia, directly supporting the integration of newcomers.

Enduring Community Leadership and Legacy
Mr. Gemelal’s commitment to his community remains unwavering. In Australia, he:

• Contributes to Oromo Voice Radio, amplifying Oromo voices and issues.
• Advocates for the Oromia Association, championing the rights and well-being of his people.
• Supports the Oromo Community in Victoria, fostering cultural preservation and social cohesion.
• Has edited numerous Afaan Oromo publications to revitalize the language for younger generations.

Summary
Dabessa Gemelal’s life is a powerful narrative of intellectual brilliance, unwavering courage, and profound dedication. From a herder in rural Oromia to a journalist challenging injustice, a political prisoner authoring books, a refugee community leader, and finally a qualified social worker in Australia, his journey embodies resilience. His lifelong advocacy for Oromo culture, language, and human rights has left an indelible mark, inspiring countless individuals and ensuring that the struggle for justice and identity continues across generations and continents.