By Patricia Keamo, EMTV Cadet Journalsit – Port Moresby
Who would have done a better job in advocating and fighting for the rights of people living with disabilities then one of their own. Isabella Kila is a role model for people living with disabilities in Port Moresby and across the country. Aspiring to be a human rights lawyer, she continues to be vocal in issues faced by persons with disabilities.
Hailing from Rigo, Central Province, 22 year-old Isabella Kila was born with a rare medical condition which left her without arms. But this has not stopped her from pursuing her dream of becoming a human rights lawyer.
Isabella started her education at the Cheshire Home Disability Service Centre in 2001. When her teachers saw that she was capable of working with other students, they transferred her to the mainstream school at Philip Aravure Primary. From there she continued to St Charles Lwanga Secondary, then to Gerehu Secondary School where she completed her secondary education.
Now Isabella is doing her final year at the University of Papua New Guinea, taking up Bachelor of Law. While she continues to be vocal in issues faced by people with disabilities, she encourages fellow people with special needs to be the voice of change so that things can change for them. Isabella emphasised that people with disabilities are ignored in areas such as health, education, employment, entertainment and sports and she will continue to fight for their rights to be heard.
A very determined advocate for people with disabilities, Isabella’s message to the public is that PLWD’s are rich in gifts, talents and skills and they should be included in society.
