May Volunteer of the Month: Saira Hashmey

Congratulations to Park Drive resident Saira Hashmey for being recognized as our May Volunteer of the Month!

Saira brings her positive energy to every Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board meeting and event! Her commitment to the HY Board and the thoughtful way she leads and supports younger members is inspiring. Last month, she completed the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) course at Blakely Hall, taking steps to stay informed about emergency preparedness efforts in Issaquah. She is also a regular contributor for our Issaquah Highlands media, managing the HY Board Instagram and writing articles for Community Connect magazine. Thanks for your commitment and service to our community, Saira!

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For my whole life, from when I was born to now, I’ve lived in Issaquah. Despite never moving, I feel the deepest connection to this town. The feeling of community, togetherness and safety permeates every corner of Issaquah, and it’s a feeling I deeply associate with my life here.

What I appreciate most about Issaquah is the gorgeous views we have here. With all that Washington has to offer, I always find myself slipping into a deep trance of awe when I see our town’s views. I always love taking walks up to the top of the hill just to see the incredible view of the mountains or walking to Central Park during sunset to see the sun’s light filter through the trees.

At first, I became tolerant of the mountain view as I grew up, and I began to almost tune it out. But, as I’ve had the privilege to travel to different cities and towns across the country, I can only call our views some of the best out there.

Saira with her family.

My family is made up of three vital figures in my life, which all support me along my journey. I don’t know where I would be today without each of them keeping me on the right path.

My sister has always stood by my side, someone who has a passion for learning and compassion. I find her determination for knowledge and her empathy to be contagious whenever she shares her new experiences with me.

Saira poses with Arjit during Treats and Tails in October 2024.

My mother looks out for all of my family, and I know I can thank her for all the opportunities I have in my life. She has my utmost respect for her ability to balance our family and be the glue which keeps us together.

My dad brings the fun love to my family. He’s one of the funniest people I know and he’s always someone I can rely on to cheer up my day. He cares for all of my family dearly and does anything he can to make sure we are cared for and supported.

Siara has dressed up as a yeti for the past two years of Parents Night Out events.

While living here in Issaquah, I’ve met a wonderful community. The spirit of connection in Issaquah Highlands—from fundraisers to kindness and open communication—is what drew me to the magic of this town. I feel welcome everywhere I go, and I want to share that feeling all across the community. Volunteering is my way of showing everyone in Issaquah Highlands that I value how much we’ve built, and continue to build, as a community.

I joined the Highlands Youth (HY) Advisory Board as an opportunity to connect to the community as a middle schooler. Now, almost five years later, I feel as though I’ve been serving my community well. My experience on the HY Board has taught me how to be a leader, someone who is resilient and a problem solver. My time with the HY gave me a connection to other kids that I couldn’t have found anywhere else.

Thank you, Issaquah Highlands, for being the best place I could ask to live!