Isaac Katongo

Born on November 8, 2009, in Kasama, Zambia, Isaac is the third of six children. His family lives in a remote village called Kasombe in Zambia’s Northern Province, where his parents work as subsistence farmers and also make charcoal to support their family.

Because the nearest schools are a long distance from their home, Isaac was unable to attend school in his village. His aunt, Catherine, decided to bring Isaac to Lusaka so that he could have an opportunity to receive an education. Isaac now lives with his aunt and attends MacDonald Brown School.

Catherine is a homemaker who has raised six children of her own while also opening her home to other family members who need care. Her husband supports the household through various jobs, but it is a constant challenge to provide for such a large family.

Despite the obstacles he has faced, Isaac is a joyful and energetic young man who loves to learn. He is especially talented in mathematics, which is his favorite subject. He has plenty of energy and, if given the opportunity, would happily spend the entire day running and playing!

Isaac loves the color white, and his favorite meal is nshima served with sausage. He also enjoys attending church and Sunday school, and one of his favorite Bible stories is the story of Abraham and Isaac.