Eugene lives with his aunt who sells French fries as a means of survival. His father died when he was young and his mother remarried but due to cultural restrictions, she was unable to take Eugene with her. This forced him to live with his aunt who has struggled to pay for his school fees. Eugene's aunt is very passionate about education and despite her meager income she goes out of her way to ensure all the children under her care get a better education. Eugene loves sports and has a strong affinity for computers. He aspires to be an expert in computers. However, the situation at home keeps dimming this bright dream.

Martha writes: "I live with both of my parents but my father has a mental problem. My mother sells some vegetables on market days which take place twice a week." Martha ranked 2/140 in her first year in high school.