Obed Kiabanzawoko
Today’s guest is living proof that courage, determination, faith, and the kindness of others can transform a life.
Originally from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Obed Kiabanzawoko arrived in the United States in 2016, stepping into a brand-new country, a brand-new culture, and the challenge of learning an entirely new language. He attended Hoover Middle School before continuing at Bunger Middle School, where he was part of the Waterloo Community School District’s English Language Learner program. Through hard work, perseverance, and the encouragement of dedicated teachers and staff, Obed successfully passed his English proficiency assessment and exited the ELL program—a milestone that helped build the confidence to pursue higher education and a future in technology.
He graduated from Waterloo West High School in 2023 and has since earned associate degrees in Cybersecurity and Network Administration & Engineering. Today, Obed serves as a Security Analyst, protecting organizations from cyber threats and solving complex technology challenges every day.
But Obed’s story isn’t just about computers.
At Living Stone Church in Waterloo, he combines his technical expertise with a heart for serving others, overseeing livestreaming, audiovisual systems, social media, the church website, and Google Workspace while also investing in young people through youth ministry and Sunday School.
His journey reminds us that when determination meets opportunity—and when teachers, mentors, and communities believe in someone—extraordinary things can happen.
Please help me welcome a remarkable young man whose story is inspiring students, educators, families, and anyone who’s ever had to begin again…
https://youtu.be/L0T6WcYqwDU
