The Rotary Club of Newnan is thrilled to welcome Gabriela Gomezese Rugeles of Colombia as our 2025-26 Georgia Rotary Student Program (GRSP) scholar.  Gabriela arrived in Georgia on July 31, marking the beginning of a year that promises to be filled with cultural exchange, academic growth, and meaningful Rotary connections. 

 At only 18 years old, Gabriela brings with her a world of experience and enthusiasm. Born and raised in Colombia, she grew up in a family that values curiosity, learning, and connection — traits that shine through in everything she does. Whether she’s leading school events, creating content for her podcast, or organizing Interact service projects, Gabriela approaches each opportunity with creativity, empathy, and drive.

This fall, Gabriela will begin her studies at the University of West Georgia in Carrollton, where she looks forward to exploring new academic opportunities while immersing herself in campus life. She’s excited to share her Colombian culture and make lasting connections with fellow students — all while representing Rotary values in and out of the classroom.

In high school, Gabriela co-founded an Interact Club through her mother’s Rotary connections. That club didn’t just survive — it thrived. Under her leadership as treasurer and secretary, it grew in membership and impact, reaching communities in need and raising awareness about global challenges like polio. Even after graduation, Gabriela continues to support youth service by mentoring younger students and helping launch a new Interact club. It’s clear she lives Rotary’s motto: Service Above Self.

Gabriela is also a gifted communicator with a passion for storytelling. She enjoys acting, dance, and film — and runs her own podcast exploring themes of emotion, society, and personal growth. Her dream is to work in the entertainment industry, producing films and content that spark dialogue and understanding across cultures. As she puts it, “Whether behind the scenes or in front of the camera, I want to create stories that bring light to diverse issues and impact communities everywhere.”

Through the GRSP experience, Gabriela is excited to expand her worldview, sharpen her academic focus, and build a network of lifelong friendships. She believes this year will help her grow into a more confident, resilient, and globally minded leader — someone ready to give back not only in Colombia, but to the world.

Please join us in giving Gabriela a warm District 6900 welcome. Let’s make her feel at home here in Georgia — and show her what it means to be a Rotarian, a scholar, and a friend.