Background

I was born in Boulder, Colorado, and moved to Dallas in 2007. My parents immigrated to the U.S., escaping the Kurdish genocide under Saddam Hussein. I grew up as a first-generation Kurd born in America.

My parents started a new life here with nothing and no one to rely on. Watching them work tirelessly to build a successful life in a country that was completely foreign to them taught me that anything is possible. Their determination and resilience continue to inspire me to work hard and pursue my goals every day.

My parents love traveling, and I’m grateful they instilled that value in me at a young age. We went on many family vacations throughout my childhood, which gave me a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures.