My Journey

I was born in Dubai, UAE, where cultures from around the world meet. Not long after, my family moved to The United States. Starting on the west coast in Southern California, and eventually to the east coast in Northern Virginia. Each place has shaped who I am today. These moves were more than just geographic, they were meaningful transitions as my family found new places to call home.

California was a formative chapter that was filled with warmth, not only because of the weather but also in the people I met. I can still remember spending days on the beach in Malibu, the sounds of the waves crashing, and the open salty air. I cherish my memories and am grateful that I got to call that place my home. During the six years that I lived in California, I met my closest, lifelong friend, and developed a friendship that grew with me, even though we live thousands of miles apart now. Even though we both no longer live in California, we still proudly call it one of our homes.

California

Northern Virginia is where I truly came into my own. It is where I have pursued my education, learned what my passions are, and carved out a path for my future. Growing up just outside of Washington D.C., it offered the perfect balance of opportunity and community. Though I have lived in many places, Northern Virginia is my truest sense of home.

Virginia

Proudly Scottish

Both of my parents were born and raised in Scotland, U.K., and while I have never lived there, it has always felt like home. My close extended family are still there, and I grew up visiting often. I celebrated holidays, experienced traditions, and heard stories. In many ways, a part of me grew up in Scotland too. I am proud to have been raised by Scottish parents who passed down more than just their sense of humor, but also their values of resilience and community. Even though I am thousands of miles away, Scotland has always been present in my home, down to the dishes my mom cooks. I will continue to carry this with me and allow it to influence who I am and who I am becoming.