Sophie Kouri wants to empower delegates

By Libby Klamm

Sophie Kouri came to Girls State without knowing exactly what she wanted to do or get out of the experience.

“I came in not going to (run for governor), but it was always in the back of my head,” said Kouri, who was appointed yesterday by the Federalist Party.

After arriving at Girls State, Kouri decided running for governor was her goal. She wanted to make the best out of her experience and show her
leadership skills.

Her party aims to empower young women to look past diversity and not back down when they are passionate about what they believe in.

“No matter what your skin color, popularity or race, we need to get together and not back down,” Kouri said. “Fuel the fire.”

Kouri, originally from the city of Minneapolis, has always been passionate and has a love for politics and women’s rights.

“It would mean the world to me to be the next leader of young women, and governor combines both of my passions,” Kouri said.

Her keynote speaker, Laura Selman, said Kouri makes big contributions to her city and wants everyone to come out of her shell this week.

“She likes underdogs being noticed, and she’s really into empowerment,” Selman said.

Kouri also said, “I can bring everyone’s ideas together,” which she believes aids in making her party run smoothly.

Both her keynote speaker and her senior counselor, Dawn Hentges, said Kouri is positive, outgoing and optimistic.

“My city depends on her and looks to her like a leader for the week,” Hentges said.

Being a leader is something Kouri already has experience with

Kouri believes her outgoing personality and leadership experience would make her a good governor.

She currently serves as her student body president at Yankton High School and is a member of the National Honor Society.

She is also a tennis team captain and coaches young athletes in tennis. Additionally, she mentors children at the Boys and Girls Club.

When it comes to influences throughout her life, Kouri looks to her father.

“I have always looked up to him,” she said. “He made something out of himself and is a successful doctor. He puts us before himself and has a great work ethic.”

After Girls State, Kouri plans to attend Creighton University in Omaha, Neb., to major in business and political science, and she wants to eventually go to law school.

Kouri wants to empower the next group of women coming to Girls State not to be scared and to come for new experiences.

“Even if you are not familiar with politics, its OK, because Girls State is not all about that,” Kouri said. “It can open new doors and new experiences, and you get new friendship and bonds you didn’t have before.”