.002 Youmna Sirgi

For those lucky enough to know and be friends with Youmna, you know that just upon hearing her name that a smile with form across your face. Youmna is the definition of a great friend. She is always willing to listen, whether the news be good or bad. She is a “yes, and” person - always willing to continue the idea, keep the conversation going, add something productive, or just be a supportive ear and teammate. When I first met Youmna, I was immediately struck by her eagerness to learn and live a life full of adventure and joy. She is innately positive and brings that positivity out of everyone she encounters. She is honest, caring, and unafraid to be exactly who she is. Youmna provides a refreshing outlook on life and on the world, and having her around you is like a going through life with a constant burst of joy and smiles.

One of my favorite parts of Youmna’s character is her willingness to grow and be better. She is like a sponge with new information, soaking up anything that’s new and openly willing to admit when she isn’t sure/certain of something, so that she can learn and expand her mind and heart. She radiates kindness. She is fun, has a spectacular laugh, stands up for herself, her friends and her family. She clearly has incredible parents because she is all-around just a wicked smart, sharp and beautiful human being. She’s an old soul, someone you could both watch the stars with and scream with on a rollercoaster.

Youmna, you are one of my dearest friends, someone I can always count on. Talking with you always makes me happy, sparks new ideas, and makes me think about how I can be a better human. Thank you for coming into my life years ago to help spread ideas and inspiration and for always being up for a challenge. Thank you for living your life with force and for pushing yourself everyday. By doing so, you inspire all of us to do the same. Thank you for being you.

-BD