Dabessa Gemelal was born in Oromia and immigrated to Australia in September 2009 through East Africa.
Dabessa grew up and studied in Oromia earning a Diploma of General Agriculture from Jimma College of Agriculture as well as a Diploma of Television Journalism from Massa Media Training Institute. After settling in Australia, Dabessa completed his Diploma of Community Services Work/Case Management at Holmesglen TAFE and worked for the Australian Oromo Community Association in Victoria. Dabessa also completed his Bachelor of Social Work at Victoria University.
Currently, he is working with AMES Australia on the position of Settlement Case Manager. He is also volunteering with the Advocacy for Oromia Association and Oromo community in Victoria.
Dabessa is passionate about social change for refugees and people seeking asylum and explores the bigger picture implications in Australia and across the world through activism and journalism.
