Celebrating Zenni Scholar Winner: Lida Khoshkroudi

We are thrilled to announce Lida Ghasemzadeh Khoshkroudi from Illinois College of Optometry as the recent Zenni Scholar winner. Lida’s winning submission beautifully encapsulates the essence of empathy and compassion, demonstrating a profound commitment to creating an impact in underserved communities. Her essay, inspired by the timeless wisdom of Saadi Shīrāzī, explores the interconnectedness of humanity and the imperative of addressing social inequities with compassion and action.

A Quote from Saadi Shīrāzī:

“Human beings are members of a whole,

In creation of one essence and soul.

If one member is affected with pain,

Other members uneasy will remain.

If you have no sympathy for human pain,

The name of human you cannot retain.”

Personal Experiences

These lines reflect the core of Lida’s philosophical outlook and drive. Her personal experiences and family influences have deeply shaped her perspective. Growing up, Lida observed her mother’s unwavering commitment as a social worker. Her mother’s resilience in confronting adversity left a lasting impression on Lida, instilling in her a deep appreciation for selflessness and community service.

Photo by Julia M Cameron

Passion for Service and Community

Lida’s experiences are not just theoretical but rooted in real-life challenges and triumphs. Her volunteer work in a low-income community provided her with firsthand experience in addressing critical issues such as food insecurity, inadequate healthcare access, and educational disparities. Collaborating with social workers, Lida witnessed the resilience and strength of these communities, which in turn motivated her to leverage her skills and advocate for systemic change.

A Vision for the Future

As Lida moves forward in her professional journey, her vision remains clear: to extend a helping hand to those in need and to foster a more compassionate and inclusive world. Her dedication to serving underserved communities is a testament to her belief in the interconnectedness of humanity and the moral imperative to alleviate suffering.

Lida’s commitment to advocacy and service is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the impact one individual can have in addressing systemic issues. Her journey reflects a blend of personal experience, philosophical insight, and a heartfelt drive to contribute to the greater good.

Photo by RDNE Stock project

A Heartfelt Congratulations

We extend our warmest congratulations to Lida Ghasemzadeh Khoshkroudi for her outstanding essay and well-deserved recognition as the Zenni Scholar winner. Her dedication to empathy, community service, and systemic change embodies the values we cherish and strive to promote through the Zenni Scholar program.

Lida’s story is an inspiring reminder that the essence of humanity lies in our ability to connect with and support one another. As she continues her journey in optometry and community service, we are confident that she will make a significant impact, bringing her vision of a more compassionate and equitable world closer to reality.

Congratulations again, Lida, and thank you for sharing your powerful story and unwavering commitment to making a difference.