As I peek over my shoulder, I see a news story request pop on The Sidekick adviser Chase Wofford’s computer in bright blue letters; Staff writer Huda Rizawan: Voices and silence in today’s political potluck.
This sparked a seed of curiosity in my head. Who is Rizwan and why is she writing about this?
Two weeks later, as I walk into The Dallas Morning News auditorium for a Sidekick field trip, I look for an open spot to sit in. As I look to my right, I introduce myself to the hijabi next to me; who just so happens to be the same Huda Rizwan.
“Oh, you’re Huda,” I say to her.
To my surprise, she replies “You must be Yusra, nice to finally meet you!”
Ever since that introduction in February, Huda has been someone I look up to. A major topic of interest between us is politics, even if we may not agree on the same things. Her decision to let go of what her parents want her to study so she can study her true passion instead, political science, has been a point of admiration for me.
After the publication of her news piece later that month encouraging the conversation of politics within schools, I was reminded that I should write more about what I am passionate about and that as high school students we should utilize our voices and platforms to speak about the environment around us; a lesson many of us take for granted, even as student journalists.
Although Huda has only lived in Texas for two years after being raised in Kuwait, she is moving to Maine with her family due to her dad’s job. As she moves on with the next chapter of her life, I know she will move on to do great things and continue to pursue her passion no matter where she is.
In a world where many people follow paths chosen for them, Huda chooses to pursue what genuinely interests her, even when it is difficult. That confidence is something I deeply admire about her.
Huda inspires me because she is unapologetically herself. She is thoughtful, passionate and never afraid to speak honestly about issues that matter to her. In many ways, she reminds me that journalism is not only about reporting facts, but also about having the courage to care.
As she prepares to graduate and begin a new chapter in Maine, I know she will continue making an impact wherever she goes. While Coppell and The Sidekick will not be the same without her, I am grateful our paths crossed when they did. I know this is not the last time I will hear Huda Rizwan’s name.
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