In a heartfelt commencement speech, Hamda Abdi Ibrahim, a recent graduate of West High, shared her inspiring journey from a refugee camp in Ethiopia to standing on the stage as the first in her family to graduate high school and pursue higher education. Reflecting on her past, Ibrahim recounted the challenges she faced, including illiteracy until the age of 11 and being diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome in high school.

Ibrahim emphasized the importance of community and support, recalling how her grandfather's legacy of kindness and connection influenced her life. She expressed gratitude for the people who helped her along the way, from family friends who provided meals during difficult times to teachers and staff who dedicated themselves to her education.

With a message of empowerment, Ibrahim encouraged her fellow graduates to cherish their relationships and pursue their passions. She plans to study cybersecurity at the University of Albany, highlighting the privilege of having the resources to follow her dreams.

In closing, she urged her classmates to embrace their limitless potential and to remember the power of kindness and community in shaping their futures. Her speech resonated with themes of resilience, gratitude, and the importance of connection, leaving a lasting impression on the audience as they celebrated the achievements of the class of 2023.