TRIBUTES
In the days, weeks and months following Omar's death, we received so many incredible messages from those who knew and loved him. They are filled with beautiful memories, descriptions of his extraordinary character and convey his undeniable impact. These tributes continue to come in. This page will serve as a memorial board for all to share in the beauty of The Omar Effect and to watch it expand.
Read on for the amazing tributes honouring Omar:
Hannah Lain, sixth form friend
Omar was a light and one of the kindest and most understanding people I have ever known and I am truly so sorry for your loss.
When we first met at St Marylebone 6th form, my family was at the tail end of a very rough time, and it felt like we were falling apart. Omar was such a support to me, listening quietly and completely, utterly and unfailingly kind.
My little brother Joe is autistic and before his diagnosis he struggled a lot in school; yet there was always a palpable love from my brother for our family, no matter how difficult he found the outside world. Omar reminded me of Joe in that way, because he too had so much love for his family, especially his younger sister, and we absolutely bonded over being the eldest siblings. Omar met my brother a few times and was always brilliant with him. He treated him as he would anyone, and Joe felt so included whenever Omar was around. I will always love Omar for that, as even those small interactions gave my brother the confidence to work towards getting back to school and socialising with his peers.
Omar confided in me about his neurological condition, as we were once getting off the tube together and as he got up too quickly, he stumbled. He gave me the courage to open up to him about my own health. I had been experiencing back pain and mobility problems and was going through tests, absolutely terrified that something was seriously wrong with me. I was diagnosed with a spinal condition that is very rare in young people. I felt very alone, but Omar was one of the only people in sixth form that I spoke to about it, as he was probably the only person to understand what I was going through. As much as I wish we were both fully healthy, it was such a comfort to have someone who could truly empathise with me. I feel incredibly honoured that I was one of the only people he confided in about his condition, and I can only hope that I gave him some of the comfort that he gave me.
Omar was so incredibly emotionally intelligent and always knew the right thing to say, like an old soul. Sometimes it felt like I was speaking to someone who had lived life before! I don’t think Omar’s passing will ever be something we can understand, but I am so grateful for the time I spent with him. It’s such a loss for the world, but he stays with us through these conversations and his kindness and light will certainly never be forgotten.
I’m thinking of you and praying that you find solace and peace in knowing that your son was a very special person. You should be incredibly proud of him.
Raphi Birch, sixth form friend.
I was so sorry to hear about Omar. He and I were friends in 6th form and I cherish the good times we had together both in class and on the football pitch. Although our football team didn’t win all of our matches, Omar was often the man who kept us ahead when we did win. As our goalie, he was like a cat and could somehow stop shot after shot! I will always remember Omar as a lovely, kind and funny person who I could always talk to and really enjoyed spending time with.
Marlene Walker, family friend.
When I met Omar, he was eleven and I was six. Years before we were born, our parents had been the best of friends. We had just flown from Australia to Europe where I knew no one apart from Omar's warm family, who my parents had always spoken incredibly highly of. The moment Omar and I met, we clicked into place, as if we were the missing pieces of the friendship puzzle both our parents had started many years before, during their travels across the mountains of India.
Even aged eleven, Omar was as kind as a person could possibly be, and as the oldest in our gang of five children, he looked out for us all with his whole heart.
Omar was the first person to read Harry Potter to me, the books that would go on to embrace me through the crashing tidal waves of my childhood anxiety into the calmer waters of growing up. He saw my nervous vulnerability and with love and warmth gave me tools to help me combat it. However, in what Farah would later describe as ‘a classic move of Omar mischief’, he led me to believe that the character of Hermione Granger was in fact black, resulting in my lingering disdain for the (very white) Emma Watson every time I watched the movies!
Having not seen Omar for twelve years, I thought I would struggle to find the words to truly capture him; that this temporality might render me unable to do justice to honouring someone so incredibly special and meaningful to so many people. But my connection with Omar has taught me that love is not graphed by ‘hours spent together’ or measured by ‘geographical proximity’. Loss is immeasurable, but love is stronger, and Omar’s unwavering love and kindness now lives forever, nestled in the hearts of those of us who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Claire Silver, former deputy head teacher, Oxford Gardens Primary School
It has taken me a long time to write a tribute to Omar because I couldn’t find the right words to do him justice. I still can’t!
Apart from the occasional lesson, I never taught Omar, but always wished I had. He was one of those pupils that everyone at the school knew. And they knew him for all the right reasons. He was smart without being a show off, kind, polite, popular, inclusive and a good friend - the sort of friend everyone wanted.
But, more than anything, what stood out for me was the way Omar was with his siblings. He looked out for Talib at school and whenever Farah came to school with Afra to pick up the boys, Omar would, without fail, make a beeline for Afra.
When Afra joined Oxford Gardens and Omar had moved on to Burlington Danes Academy, he would always make an effort to come back and watch her in a concert or an assembly, where he could be seen beaming with pride. I know Omar would be so proud of both Talib and Afra’s continuing achievements. They are brilliant - just like Omar.
I only heard of Omar’s death in August 2023 and as a mother my first thoughts were for Farah and Rashid, and how on earth, they were able to keep going. I soon turned my thoughts to Talib and Afra, I was and still am devastated for them. But I know they are doing what Omar would want as they continue to keep going for him, to make him proud each day.
The legacy Farah and Rashid have set up with The Omar Effect is so special, just like Omar and your beautiful family. X
Candy Connolly, Omar's piano teacher.
Our dear Omar was a remarkable young man and a very gifted piano student, who came to me having already taught himself to play at a high level. Having a piano at home was clearly a motivating factor in his progress. He had a gentle and intuitive touch when pressing the keys and always played with such emotional sensitivity.
I was his guide and accompanied him through to Grade 5 after which he felt he had the necessary skills to improvise, compose and read the music of his chosen favourites, though so much of his playing was done entirely by ear, including the beautiful theme tune to Howl’s Moving Castle.
After the discipline of the Bach first prelude, Omar taught himself the Solfeggietto (by Bach’s son, CPE Bach) under his own steam. His ear for the melody and feel for phrasing, made Schubert flow under his fingers as though he himself were the composer. And his confident touch on more contemporary composers brought his own personal stamp to the work.
Omar's talent for hearing and turning a song into a piano piece continued to grow with his musical interaction with friends. Music is a place where so much can be said without words, and it was here that Omar chose to commune with so many.
Omar nourished everyone who met him, myself included, and I feel so fortunate to have shared a wonderful musical journey with him.
Jo Wittams, Co-Executive Director of The Equality Trust, where Omar worked in the summer of 2021
I first met Omar when he interviewed for the Project Assistant apprenticeship. The panel were blown away by his answers and the presentation that he gave. He scored higher at sift and at interview than recent graduates. He fitted into the team straight away, during a difficult time with lots of covid uncertainty. He was reliable, collegiate, genial and always completed the tasks he took on. During this time, we were advertising for a new Executive Director, and he asked "how's the Project Assistant to CEO pipeline over here?" and I don't think any of us were against it! He was so keen to get involved and the kind of team member that anyone would want on their side - he stepped in for me in facilitating meetings with our Young Equality Campaigners, and took part in the first meeting we had with Birmingham City Council, which started a fully fledged, funded project.
We also talked about my struggles caring for my elderly parents, as he shared his family experiences with a similar situation - he was genuinely concerned and wanted to support, showing wisdom and kindness that felt beyond his years. Omar made a real difference during his time at The Equality Trust, leaving a lasting positive impression on everyone who met and worked with him.
Olivia Williamson, former modern languages teacher from Burlington Danes Academy
I am so desperately sorry for the loss of Omar. Whilst I never taught him, to be part of the BDA community adjacent to him was privilege enough. His talent for Spanish was unsurpassed in any students I encountered in my 11 years at the academy. Despite this he was not arrogant, instead supporting other students in lessons and revision drop ins, whilst simultaneously taking on the challenge of pushing his linguistic knowledge even further and continuously excelling at optional extra work. Much more important than his academic brilliance though was his brilliance as a person. He was curious, kind and thoughtful. When we visited Barcelona he was a central figure in the group, and it was a real joy to see him in a less formal setting. He laughed with students and staff members alike, asked questions about the city and the language, and went out of his way to help make sure the other students crossed the road safely. Please know that you are all very much in my thoughts.
Matilda Dwyer, university friend
I don’t have words to fully express just how sorry I am for your loss, but I thought hearing how much Omar meant to all of us might provide you with some sort of comfort.
I went to sixth form with Omar in London and remained close friends with him throughout university and I feel so lucky and grateful to have had him in my life. Although we weren’t as close in school as we were at university, we became friends because of our connections to Liverpool and bonded during our school trip to Barcelona. I have fond memories of the two of us just talking and wandering around the streets of Sitges. We always used to joke that we were meant to be in each others lives when we moved to Liverpool and were allocated flats just one floor apart. Omar had the kindest soul, and he was a friend you could talk to for hours about anything. He was always surrounded by friends, always made people feel included and welcomed, and that was reciprocated back to him. He also inspired and encouraged me to learn Spanish. One night, just a few weeks back we challenged each other to only speak Spanish for the entire night. With Omar being practically fluent and me only being able to speak about five sentences, you can imagine this didn’t go very well! I think we got a few strange looks walking around Concert Square shouting random Spanish words to each other.
Although I only knew Omar for a few years, I had never seen him so happy than when he was here in Liverpool, which is why I’m struggling to get my head around how this has happened. Omar was such a good friend to me and so many others and I cannot praise you enough for raising such a special person who has made such an impact in all of our lives. Lots of love to your family.
Sam Mullaney, university friend
I want you to know how loved Omar was here at university by absolutely everyone, not a day went by when he didn’t have a smile on his face. You did the best job in the world raising that lad, the most caring, empathetic, smart person I’ve ever met and that’s what I’ll always remember him for. From the first day he walked into our first year flat we made unlimited memories that will live with me forever. He always spoke so incredibly highly about you and the rest of your family and that’s something you should be so proud of. I’m aware that there’s nothing in this world that I, or anyone can else can say that is going to bring back your son, but you deserve to know how we feel. He was the first person that I’d go to for help, and I’m so sorry that he carried all that weight on his shoulders and didn’t come to us the way I’d go to him. Omar was genuinely was one of the best friends I’ve ever had and to be honest I’d do anything to tell him that one more time. My love for him is unconditional. I cannot accept it and it breaks me to my core and I can’t begin to imagine how you’re feeling, I’m so so sorry for your loss. Even my younger sister and Mum know Omar and when my sister came up to Liverpool he was the one who made a massive impression on her which is why you should be so incredibly proud of yourselves for raising the best gentleman I have ever come across. I really hope to stay in touch with you and the same goes for the rest of the family. Sending infinite love to you all.
Sam x
Charlotte O’Sullivan, family friend
On 19th May, 2023, me, Farah and her pal, Steve, were about to hit one of London’s coolest spots (hope no one’s fact-checking this). Steve suggested we also come to his old-school soul night the following Friday. Farah shook her head. She thinks very highly of Steve’s DJ-ing skills, but her face was suffused with joy as she said, ‘Sorry I can’t, I’m taking Afra to Liverpool to see Omar!’
I said Omar gave me hope for the future and that I was relying on him to put the world to rights. I’m not sure if Steve heard me. If he did, he probably thought I was joking. Farah knows I wasn’t.
I’ve believed in Omar ever since, as a toddler, he uttered the word ‘badverts’ to describe the insidiously effective promotion of useless products. My faith in him was confirmed when he explained gravity to me, aged five. And the time, I think he was about ten, he changed all the settings on my watch without telling me. (Just because).
The first-born son of one of my oldest and dearest friends was the smartest person in the room. But it was more than that. He was easy breezy. A playful persuader. People like that gets things done without trying.
I was counting on Omar to find a cure for fascism. I hoped he might script/shoot/edit/score a few coruscatingly bleak indie comedies, when he had a spare mo.
One of our last conversations was about the film Promising Young Woman (he had reservations). What I’ve realised, since the funeral, is that Omar’s ‘promise’ is woven into the future. Just look through this message board and you can see that traces of him are exploding and expanding. He’s touching people he never met. Omar, we’re in a lot of pain (we all wish we were talking to you, instead of about you). It was and is an honour to be irreversibly entangled in your life. We love you more than ever and can’t wait to see what you do next.
Charlotte xxx
Lucy Heald, university friend
I have been taking my own time to deal with losing Omar and reflect on all of the special memories we made together. I am so grateful that Omar introduced us, as well as Afra, to each other in our first year in Greenbank student halls. Meeting his family in recent weeks, really makes clear how he turned out to be the person he is. He spoke about you all the time and always with a smile on his face, and after meeting you I could see why. I have recently had my birthday and it really hit me not getting a thoughtful, soppy message from Omar that I got last year (as well as of course the thoughtful, soppy messages I would get on any random day!) He really is the most caring and loving person that has and will continue to make an impact on my life. I’m sending you a big big hug and again am so sorry that this has happened. In true Liverpool style, he is always with us and we will never be on our own.
Ohhhmaaaar! I don't think you'll ever understand how much of an impact you've had on my life, and will continue to have. You truly are a unique person. Even though you always called me boring for going to bed early, you would always keep me talking for hours just so I would stay up. You were always there for me to talk to and would never judge. I'm just so sorry I couldn't be there for you when you needed. I love you too much. Forever and always my mate, my Omar.
All my love, Lucy xxx
Harvey Kitchen, primary school friend
Omar is one of my oldest friends, and even as we both got older and went to different secondary schools and universities, whenever we met up, it felt like nothing had changed. He always remained the funny, empathetic and mischievous person I became friends with all those years ago… I miss Omar deeply yet the impact he left on us was so significant.
Dear Omar, I do not have the words but would like to thank you for being one of my first and oldest friends. Recently things have not felt real and I keep expecting you to be here alongside Bede, Emmanuel and myself. Seeing everyone together celebrating your amazing life goes to show the beautiful impact you had on so many people’s lives. In just 21 years you touched and inspired so many. I can't get my head around how we will not make any more future memories. However the memories we made together I will treasure forever. I will forever be proud of you and will always see you as my close friend.
I will always miss you, love, your friend Harvey xx
Laura Stone, former head of upper school at Burlington Danes Academy
As a teacher and as a mother I am so saddened to hear the news about Omar. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Rashid, Talib and Afra at this difficult time. He was one of the most inspirational students I have had the pleasure to meet during my nearly twenty years in teaching. He was a wonderful young man with a brain larger than I could comprehend, so smart, so sensitive and so delightful in so many ways. I have so many wonderful memories of him.
Richie Haigh, family friend
I have been thinking about Omar a lot. Above all, I think of his curiosity. That shining eyed, fiercely intelligent curiosity. Films, books, music, art, football and probably a hundred other things. Absorbing it, understanding it, wanting to know where it came from, what else related to it, how it fitted into other things in its ecosystem, what its place was, what its influences were, what came before, and what came after. I think he probably had a limitless capacity for that. I would think during his time in this chapter, he’s absorbed and gleaned way more than most. Some people have the rare ability to do that. Sometimes that type of intelligence seems to come with other stuff that can make operating in an everyday way not straightforward. Maybe this is how it was for him at times I don’t know. Because of the way things have unfolded he will now always be thought of in a completely undiminished way. I’ll always think about him as the curious, shiny eyed boy with the ridiculous processing power. He’s with us now in that undiminished way, in a different way than we would’ve wanted, but still utterly part of us. Whatever form it takes, he’s in the next place now, asking tricky questions and figuring it all out quicker than anyone else probably. Wishing all you strength
Connie Ballantyne, family friend.
Omar was my first friend, we grew up together. He was a gorgeous friend but not without a mischievous side. He was constantly ruining my play-doh and causing havoc. Some of my fondest childhood memories were with Omar. Eating soup with croutons at Farah’s, picnics in Sefton Park, and chasing each other around the Greenbank school playground. But after nursery he moved away, and though our families still met up regularly, London felt far.
When we started Secondary school, we exchanged numbers and I would receive irregular, but very lengthy, text paragraphs from Omar. He refused to use text slang and would ruthlessly correct my ‘mistakes’! So one evening, me and my Dad dissected one of his messages, using his very own marking scheme. We didn’t get a response back after that!
Omar remained my brilliant friend, and I adored going to see him, Talib, Afra, Farah and Icky in London.
Omar came to Liverpool the year before I moved to Bristol. I feel like I missed so many opportunities to see him, to know him. He had already grown into such an amazing, intelligent young man and I took for granted that our friendship would last until we grew old.
When my mum rang me in May last year, I was on the bus coming home from university. It wasn’t my usual route and the bus drove through winding suburban roads dotted with trees and small parks. Nothing could have prepared me for what I was about to hear.
Since moving house, the 505 bus route is now my regular. Every time I get the bus, Omar is there, he’s there on the train coming home to Liverpool, when I get off at South parkway. He’s in the trees near Greenbank park, in Penny Lane wine bar sat in a big group, making sure to introduce every single person to each other, in little Tesco buying steaks for dinner to treat his flat mates. He’s stood in our back room at home next to his mum, and in every O or 0, Omar is there, the shadow of two dots and a smile.
My Brilliant Friend
By Connie Ballantyne
‘My Brilliant Friend’ sits on my lap but I don’t read it,
London is hot - it’s always hot. And you’re still not here.
In the dusky light of the back room you stand, I wish you would sit down
Can I ask you something?
Sat at a bus stop for half an hour
cars passing by as the light wanes
watching their reflection on the glass
they pass by twice
it’s so easy to drift off
back into the state where you exist,
remembering you, like you’re still here
my memories of the younger you are fragmented,
as an adult you are disjointed.
You were here and I was there, when I was here you were elsewhere.
You’re now permanently elsewhere, maybe if I went looking for you
I would find that where.
That other side of the country, that other side of your mind.
Anthony Bateman, university friend
I know we have only met briefly, on a couple of occasions and I have not known the best time, or the appropriate words to put together and send to you. To all of the people who were close with Omar, this situation is unthinkable and has still not processed fully in any of our minds, as I’m sure is the same for you. I cannot begin to relate to how you, Talib, Afra, and the rest of your family must be feeling in this moment, so I will not attempt to. However, I would like to at least try to verbalise in some way how important a part of our lives Omar was and will continue to be, even only having known him for two years. Omar was one of, if not the most truly interesting, empathetic, intelligent and introspective people I know. I shared so many things with Omar, because he knew about so much. He had a deep and valuable understanding of people’s emotions, mine included, in a way that is extremely rare. I always felt like in a lot of ways we were similar, in our passions, how we thought, and what we valued, and sharing those things meant so so much to me and will continue to for a long, long time. He took me to Liverpool games when I couldn’t get tickets, he spent time with me when I was on crutches and feeling isolated, he made an effort every single day to check up on all of us. I am distraught that we were not successful in reciprocating, and that we missed signs, if there were any. To us, Omar was the one who would have a smile on his face even in tough situations and when others were down. He was someone I felt I could truly speak to for hours and hours on end, and that is a testament to how well he was brought up. There is so so so much more I could say to try and explain how much he meant to all of us, but I thought for you to know that fact is the most important thing. To send your son to university, and not have him return, is absolutely unimaginable. I’m so sorry that it is now too late, and that these words will not scratch the surface of the pain and shock.
My sincerest condolences and apologies. Anthony x
Hamid El-ouahabi, Omar's PE teacher at Oxford Gardens Primary school.
Omar was the calm in our playground storm. He stood out to me for his calmness and gentle spirit, for always being the good friend that everybody needed. Never a raised voice, never an angry face, always reassuring everyone that things would be ok. Omar had that quality, and he made me feel like I was the best teacher, with his enthusiasm for sport and football connecting us.
He and I would often laugh and smile about our mutual love of Liverpool Football Club. He always knew with a smile and a wink that our love of Liverpool would benefit him in the playground! He had that charm, a true role model to every child in our community without even realising it, the glue in his year group, everyone's friend. That is special and so rare, to be able to be everyone's friend.
In essence, Omar was always reminding everyone that they need never walk alone.
YNWA
Zoe Christofi, Omar’s cousin’s cousin.
Omar was the kindest, most caring person I have ever met. He never failed to light up whichever room he walked into, always smiling and radiating his positive energy, uplifting everyone around him.
Although we were not related ‘by blood’, I always thought of him as my older cousin who I very much looked up to as the ‘cool one’. I am extremely grateful for all the long conversations we had and the older cousin advice he gave me, which I still follow to this day. Omar was truly someone I could have spoken to for hours on end. His words had a real impact on me – something which is quite rare for me!
Omar's positivity, high levels of compassion and empathy, his generosity and thoughtfulness are all qualities that will never be forgotten because they are now embedded within every person he met.
Omar, you are someone with such a beautiful soul and you will be forever missed x
Marina Sergides, Omar's aunt.
I have struggled to find the right words to convey what Omar meant to me, his uncle Sadat and our children Yiannis and Eleni. I have written and deleted countless sentences and nothing I say, can capture the true magnificence of this beautiful human being and the joy he gave us. When you read my words, please know that they represent just a tiny glimpse of Omar’s beauty and presence in all of our lives.
Omar was just two years old when I first met him. He had come to my work with his grandparents, to visit his doting uncle Sadat. I still remember every moment of it. His big, brown and perfectly shaped eyes staring up at me, curiously looking at his uncle, then me, then again at his uncle, unsure of whether to allow himself to be picked up. I couldn’t resist trying to lift this bundle of scrumptiousness up into my arms, but annoyingly Sadat deprived me by getting there first! From that moment onwards, I was totally hooked on this addictive little boy called Omar.
Time passed and I didn’t see him for a while but regularly asked after him. As anyone who knew Omar will tell you, once you had encountered him, you could not forget him. This was as true of him at two years old, as it was at 21.
I met Omar again in 2011, this time as his ‘Aunty Marina’ and he welcomed me with that familiar, gentle smile I recognised and had held onto, in the intervening years. He was now ten years old and again I became totally hooked.
Being Omar’s aunty was an honour and a privilege only afforded a handful of lucky people. I am forever thankful that he was Yiannis and Eleni’s adoring big cousin. He guided them, taught them and showered them with mountains of love and patience. Omar helped shape them and his presence continues in so many of the things they do, feel and say. Yianni’s love of football and Liverpool Football Club are because of Omar as is his dry sense of humour. Recently, at a football bar in Cyprus, Yiannis commented “Omar would have loved this place, it’s sick!”. He is forever present in their lives.
As a family we looked for every opportunity to see Omar, eager that Yiannis and Eleni’s incredible bond with him be cemented, and to ensure his prominent influence on their upbringing. We took him to Halkidiki in Greece after his GCSEs, and had a wonderful time as he ate his way through the Island, visiting random beaches and mercilessly teasing his uncle Sadat – much to Yianni’s enjoyment!
For Yiannis and Eleni, Omar was a hero who had a mystical quality to him. Wherever Omar went, my children would follow. He understood children and they responded to him in a way that is rare. Whether playing with them in the garden for hours on end, reading to them, making them laugh or holding them in a warm embrace, they felt safe with him.
Such was the depth of Omar’s love for his cousins, that after he died, his dear friend Lowri showed me videos that Omar had sent her of Eleni and Yiannis. These clips showed his gentle and loving embrace of them and their calmness in his presence.
In my last conversation with Omar, I asked if he could look after Yiannis and Eleni on a Saturday night as he was one of the few people they were happy to stay with. Without hesitation, this 21 year old university student with lots of partying to do and friends to see, of course said yes. I told him I loved him, and he replied in his characteristically open and easy way “I love you too aunty Marina”.
We love him so much and miss him every single day, but we are also so grateful to have had him.
Lola Ballantyne, family friend.
Your light is at the forefront of every blazing rooftop, your absence in every shadow cast at it’s feet.
I don’t have as many memories of Omar as I’d like and I wish there was somehow a way to retrieve and replay them.
However, one of the more recent memories that sticks in my mind is a couple of years ago when Omar came round to our house for a Sunday roast, having recently moved into Liverpool University Halls. Despite already being so loved by his university friends and therefore having a busy social life, he seemed genuinely delighted to be with us for dinner.
That evening, Omar and my dad David were deep in discussion about the latest obscure films they had watched! I was struggling with my own mental health quite a lot at the time, but despite Omar being so engrossed in conversation with my dad, I felt like he just knew and noticed how I was feeling. He was incredibly attentive, asking me about myself and how I was. He wanted to involve me and make me feel comfortable. It may not seem like a big thing, but it felt like it at the time, and looking back, it still does. I was very touched by it.
Recently, my mum Alison brought up the exact same occasion and told me that she, too, had noticed his kindness towards me. Hearing stories about Omar and reading the other tributes, I realise now that for those who knew and loved him, this was a common experience; he had a gift for noticing when others were struggling or in need of an extra smile and kind words.
Omar was such a gorgeous person who will always be adored by so many people. I think about him every day. He is forever in our hearts.
In late August 2023, The Guardian published an obituary for Omar which his dad shared on Twitter. What followed was an outpouring of shock and sadness by so many people who knew Omar from his football data Twitter and his music Instagram page. It was incredible to witness how many people he had impacted, even in the online world. We have included some of the lovely words they shared about our beautiful boy.
“Jesus Christ. This is devastating. I had the privilege of knowing Omar through group chats and Twitter interactions for years; a football data viz legend, a real music and film savant, and one of the absolute funniest people on here. We miss you so so much man”
“Shouting into the void, but I knew Omar through the Instagram music community years ago and he was one of the kindest and brightest people in it. Understatedly hilarious in a way I could only attribute to him…so crushed by this”
“Your son was such a positive influence on me in the short time I knew him that I can barely begin to describe it and I’m sure it’s the same for many others. His wit and love for art was a joy to see. Truly much love to your family, stay strong”
“Omar (topimpacat) was an amazing young man. He was intelligent, thoughtful, funny, understood football more than most, loved music and films and was always ready to challenge online bigots. So sad”
“So young. When I first came across the football data stuff he was posting I presumed he was about 30. Then I saw all the obscure European Arthouse cinema posts and thought maybe he was in his 50s. Then I saw something about his 18th birthday and I had to re-evaluate my life!”
“Devastated to hear this. Omar (topimpacat)was one of the best analytical minds on this platform. His creativity, wit and down to earth nature were incredible, and we’re all privileged to have learned from him”
“I’m so sorry for your loss. I loved following Omar. He was so kind as to help me a few times and his topimpacat account left a void when it was suspended. His humour, eclectic taste in music & film and creativity will always be a huge part of this community! Rest in peace Omar”
“I remember watching Come and See and many other great films thanks to his recommendations a few years back. Although we didn’t interact that much, he left an indelible mark on my life and I truly thank him for that. So sorry for your loss”
“Such heart breaking news. Anyone who knew Topimpacat knew how special this young man was. A top Red who truly inspired us on this platform. My heart goes out to his family, friends and anyone who knew him”
“Omar was my friend who checked in every now and then to make sure I was ok. He cared so much for other people. I can’t tell you how devastated we all are. Sending you much love and strength”
“Such sad news. Loved his accounts and even had some fun working on a wee project to produce team ratings for a 5 aside league that he was very into at the time. Hadn’t realised quite how young he was either: what a loss…”
“In my formative years Omar’s Instagram account and the community around it had a huge impact on me. I did not know him, but the person I am today is in part credit to that community and him”
“I don’t know him personally but in 2019 this man introduced me to an online art community that has, without exaggeration changed my life for the better. Thank you Omar. RIP”
“I am broken by this news. Omar was the best of us and he will be missed so much by so many of us”
“I’m so sorry for you loss. Omar was a brilliant, kind and impeccably funny guy who was loved by all”
“A heartbreaking loss. Omar had us listening to Joanna Newsom and reading Tarkovsky film reviews in between admiring his creativity in analytics. So kind and so funny. Rest in peace brother.”
“I can’t imagine what you are going through…Omar was such testament to you all and I only wish I could find words even approaching how much I want to express my feelings right now. Much, much love to you all”
“Thinking of you whenever I put on Illinois by Sufjan Stevens or when I see a football data viz with a neon colour palette, you absolute gem”
Khadijah Iqbal, Omar's aunt
My lovely Omar was my big brother's first child and I loved him from the beginning. Those curly locks, cute dimple, big brown eyes and little nose, all melted my heart as he became my golden boy, aka the dude! I adored him.
Then Talib was born and they became 'the boys', stuck together like glue, always up to mischief, whilst maintaining looks of innocence. The boys would often catch me stood behind their dad trying to tell them off, while I struggled to keep a straight face. Talib was like Omar’s shadow, following him everywhere and looking up to him and I see so much of Omar in Talib today.
Then Afra came along, the baby sister Omar worshipped and showered with love. They shared a bond so rare.
Omar had a heart of pure gold and always went out of his way to help others. During lockdown, he would take his beloved grandad, who had alzheimers, out for a walk every day, spending time together, with his attentive love and patience.
Omar and I had a bond full of love, laughter and banter which deepened over the years. As he got older, we would meet regularly for lunch or dinner and a catch up on life. He was smooth and charming often telling me that I didn't look old enough to be his aunty! He wasn't just my nephew, he was my friend, who made me laugh, loved me unconditionally and was always there when I needed him.
The last time I saw him was when he was home for the Easter break. He gave up a whole day to help me move into a new flat. He was amazing, battling through wind and rain with boxes and trolleys and didn't once complain. I thanked him and he replied "anything to make your life easy aunty Khadijah". He was my superhero.
It has been an honour watching Omar grow into such fine young man. Polite, kind, caring, sociable with such a sharp wit and so full of love. I remember tearfully saying goodbye to Omar when he left for university, reassuring him that I was just a phone call away. I could not have begun to imagine that he would never come home.
During this time of immense pain and grief, I hope that Farah and my brother can take some comfort in knowing that they raised such a beautiful boy.
Omar, I miss you so much and my promise to you is that I will spend the rest of my days striving to be the best aunty possible to your beloved Talib and Afra xxx
Oliver Nangle, university friend
I would like to write a message for you to understand the love and joy your son Omar brought to me in during my years at university. Not only did Omar catch my attention the first time I met him with his emphatic personality and positivity, but how he carried this with him always. You brought up such a lovely young man and he used these important qualities to gather together the strongest friendship bonds I’ve ever seen. He inspired me to get better at goalkeeping as I was his super sub in goal for our five aside team and never have I seen someone so talented in the net. He was a keeper in all aspects of life. My love for Omar also extended to how he was so invested in my relationship with my girlfriend Tilda, another close friend of his. I loved the three of us meeting up in London whenever we could. Omar was truly a remarkable person to know. His exceptional intelligence made every conversation an experience and Omar’s positivity made him a beacon of light to turn to. Beyond his expertise in science, his expansive knowledge extended even to my own field of study (geography) leaving me in awe every time we spoke. Whether we were watching or playing football together, his infectious smile and brilliance never ceased to amaze me. His presence impacted the lives of all those around him. I’m praying for you and your family and can’t imagine how you are all feeling but he always spoke so highly of his family.
Sending my love and hugs, sincerely Ollie x
Cerisse Goodhead former comms manager at The Equality Trust where Omar worked in the summer of 2021
I’ve been thinking what can I say to do justice to Omar. The moment Omar began his interview, taking a risk to talk about such a challenging and controversial topic of black hair, I knew instantly the barriers and hurdles he would set out to break during his short time at The Equality Trust would be immense. He inspired me in many ways, giving the perspective and advice that helped to refine work and produce messaging that resonated with many.
Omar, while at first quiet had a presence that was displayed in a simple comment or idea, showcasing his genuine nature. As he gradually grew out of his shell, we saw a fun side to him that gave me a sense of ease! He made many of us laugh in session with young people and had a strong confidence, allowing him to present to young people in person and online! He made a big difference in a short time, supporting our young equality campaigners and contributing to our annual lecture. Omar was a true asset and his contribution made a world of difference in a short space of time.
His decision to attend university, while a loss for The Equality Trust, was the next step in building his greatness. His happiness in his decision was warming and despite leaving us, he was still willing to support in the little time he had left at the organisation. A credit is owed to those who had a hand in raising Omar. He made a difference during his time at The Equality Trust and I’m truly grateful I got to work with him and to experience his warmth and humour.
Omar’s passing is a great loss for everyone but I hope you can find comfort in knowing he made an impression on all of us a and everyone who knew him.
Roswitha Adldinger, family friend.
It is one of those stories of friendship that you read about, that doesn’t seem real. Jeremy and I met Icky and Farah in the mountains of India and felt like we had found true kindred spirits. As soon as we met, we were connected forever, despite the huge distance between us.
When Omar was born I was so excited, I sewed my first quilt to celebrate. Farah and Icky sent beautiful photos by mail and cards full of stories about their beautiful boy. There was so much joy.
Soon after Talib was born, Jeremy and I visited the family in Liverpool. I have such wonderful memories of the two tiny boys, Omar walking, talking, thinking and laughing. Talib crawling, chewing and smiling.
Even at such a young age Omar had interesting things to tell me. He would hold my hand to cross a road and I would turn into a proud Aunty. I have vivid memories of sharing fish and chips with Omar on the Welsh shoreline, walking along the stone wall edge that separated the street from the sand, his hand in mine.
The next time I saw the family, beautiful Afra was born, so loved by her brothers. The boys were older and so smart, sophisticated and confident. During that visit to London, I went to their primary school and saw how loved Omar was by all. Our family was fully embraced by the Sayeed Iqbals in their home.
Omar was so talented on the piano, so musical, so articulate, so curious. He made our much younger children feel at home and took them under his wing. He read Harry Potter to our daughter Marlene and started her years long love affair with those books.
I am heartbroken that Omar never came to Sydney to visit us. I can’t tell you how many times I mapped out in my mind, picking him up from the airport, backpack on shoulder, ready to adventure. I wish with all my heart I had reached out and insisted he come over and stay a while.
I feel both incredibly lucky to have had Omar in my life, and devastated that I don’t. I am honoured to have had a small part in the beautiful life of Omar.
May he be at perfect peace.
Thinking of you all, with all the love in the world,
Roswitha.
Hattie Legh-Smith, university friend.
Omar was one of the most beautiful souls I have ever known. He was always so loving, kind and friendly and would give me a big hug and a compliment every time we saw each other. He really was such a ladies man! Omar always knew when to be there for you and what to say, whether that was being nice one minute or teasing you the next. Whatever it was, it always worked.
I am so glad I was able to meet such an amazing friend. Omar had so much love in his heart for his friends and family. He was so intelligent and I remember realising just how amazing he was, when he showed me how he was able to play a song that he had just heard, perfectly on his piano, with no practice or sheet music.
I’m so happy to have spent nights out, beach days, movie nights, and so much more, with such a wonderful person. He will always have a special place in my heart and I am so proud to be able to call him my friend. He is also the reason I am a Liverpool football supporter!
I will always remember the last time I was with Omar, and he promised to go on a walk with me in Sefton Park and buy me an ice cream. It will forever remind me of just how kind and loving he was.
I have so much love for you Omar, the most incredible person I have ever known. I miss you everyday.
Rachel Floyd, programme director of Biological Sciences at the University of Liverpool
Omar was an amazing young man, with an aura of effortless intelligence and eternal optimism. He had a brilliantly understated sense of humor, where comments would be left hanging, his face etched with a wry smile, while he waited for my brain to catch up. This was Omar, funny, engaging and always keen to tell me something new or who he’d buy to solve Liverpool’s midfield crisis.
Omar was a tremendous friend, loyal and kind, generous with his time and always the first to help those who needed it. The type of student who made group-work work, even when the experiments didn’t! He was the type of student that makes teaching so rewarding, bright, curious, and always brimming with questions and ideas that he wanted to discuss.
Omar was a ray of sunshine and positivity. Our Life Sciences community has lost someone very special and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Noga Levy-Rapoport, primary school friend
Dear Omar, thank you for being such an integral part of my life. Your love, light and warmth shone through you at every step of our childhood; you made me laugh without trying and when you did try it was out of the purest kindness I have ever known. How lucky we all are to have been blessed with someone who was so deeply loved, that we can share and celebrate your life with hundreds of people. You were an exceptional friend, a brilliant student and I wish you were still here. I will always hold onto the joy and hilarity we shared, the most genuine, generous form. I will do all I can to emulate the unconditional love you shared with me and everyone you have ever met. Thank you for letting me know you and your beautiful family.
Love, Noga x
Emma Marks, Senior SED Project Officer, The Equality Trust, where Omar worked in the summer of 2021
I just wanted to share a few words with you on the impression Omar made on me whilst he was at The Equality Trust. I was impressed with his gentle and reassuring manner. He was always very polite and willing to accommodate any request if he could. He took on tasks with ease and was always reliable, enthusiastic and willing to learn. I mostly remember what an incredibly intelligent and skilled person he was for someone so young. I am deeply shocked that such a gentle and vibrant person can be taken from us at such a young age. My thoughts and condolences are with you at this very difficult time
Lauren Potter, school teacher, Oxford Gardens Primary school and family friend
I remember first meeting Omar as a young boy and knowing straight away that there was something special about him. He grew up into the most wonderful and beautiful soul. I looked on in awe at the way he looked after his younger cousins and later at the way he related to my own children - I couldn’t believe that such a young man could be so affectionate and caring towards young children. He was so at ease and in his element with them. To top that off he was so intelligent and interested in the world around him, as well as in anything that you were talking to him about. He was wise beyond his young years.
You are so missed Omar and your beautiful light will never go out. We all adore and love you eternally.
Jethro Garton, family friend and neighbour.
Dear Afra, Icky, Talib and Farah, I'm so truly sorry to hear about Omar. He was one of the smartest, nicest and most considerate people I have ever met. He helped me so much with my maths and is the main reason why I passed my SATs and enjoy maths to this day. Omar-forever in our hearts.
Love, Jethro
Nithya Murugan, Omar’s former class tutor and science teacher, Burlington Danes Academy
It is with a heavy heart that I write this. Omar's exceptional talent and curiosity made him stand out in every classroom and hallway. As his tutor and science teacher, I witnessed his sharp intellect and inquisitive nature first hand.
Omar had a unique ability to grasp complex concepts with ease, sparking lively discussions and thought-provoking questions. He was a student with so many talents but he was not one to shout and rave about them. He often stayed back with his friends after lessons to chat or banter with me, letting his cheeky but sharp wit shine through.
I have taught many students in my fifteen year teaching career, but it is Omar who often appears in my memories of my time at BDA. I got to know his mum well at the time and was proud to hear of his incredible academic accomplishments after I left.
The news of his passing was a profound shock, leaving me numb and in disbelief. My heart goes out to his family and friends. Omar has never been and will never be forgotten. His spirit will forever remain in our hearts.
Rest in peace, Omar.
Izzie, university friend.
Dearest Omar, words cannot describe your beautiful soul and the everlasting impact you have made on mine. I will truly never forget your kind words and the time you always had for anyone who needed it. You just knew when a hug or a quick chat was needed. I will forever look for you in this world; signs in nature and up in the sky.
All my love, Izzie
Rhys Edkins, university friend.
When I think of my happiest times with Omar, most of them revolve around football to be honest, either watching it, playing it or listening to him list off a bunch of observations and terms that went straight over my head! No wonder he built such a following on Twitter, because he seriously knew what he was talking about.
I think of him whenever I watch Liverpool games, as it doesn’t feel right watching them win and not having him celebrating and gloating with the rest of the boys, or more importantly watching them lose and not being able to give him some stick! It was really nice to see the flag of him at Anfield; it was a special tribute at a place that he loved to go. Also occasions like Luca and Willa’s fundraising event have been really helpful and a nice chance for us all to get together and celebrate Omar in a way I know he would have loved.
I’ve always fancied myself as someone who knew a few things, but Omar's knowledge used to amaze me, as did so many things about him. It's so lovely to hear that Omar mentioned me, as I just assumed it was a one-sided case of me always going on about what an amazing guy he was to my parents!
Omar, I love and miss you my bro. You're unlike anyone I've ever met and I will forever feel blessed I got to meet you and have the privilege of calling you my friend. Rest easy brother, you are forever in our hearts.
Truly one of a kind. Love you, Rhys x
Alex McCartney, university friend.
Omar, despite this tragedy, I can determinedly say that not one moment of your life was wasted. You are someone I will eternally admire and look up to. I vow to treasure your character, principles, and utmost enthusiasm, in everything I do for the rest of my life.
I remember those times when it would be you and me resolving silly arguments between our respective friendship groups. My fellow diplomat never disappointed! There were so many things I thought I was until I met you, but you were already ten steps ahead.
I shall continue to cherish your being, in thought, word and deed. For it is not a ‘goodbye’ but a ‘see you around’. I want to make you proud. I want to share you with all my friends, old and new. I want to say thank you.
I love you Omar, my forever inspiration.
Love, Alex xxx
Amira Bloxham, university friend
Omar was the kindest person I’ve ever met, and I’m sure a lot of that was due to his wonderful family. He was one of the first people I met at university, and he was like a breath of fresh air. I've never met anyone who had such an immense impact on so many people’s lives. It’s rare to meet someone who lights up a room whenever they walk in it, and yet he managed to radiate positive energy every time I saw him.
I have one memory of him that I will never forget. The summer before I started university, I was going through a lot after my dad passed away, and I became very ill. I was in a flat in halls where a couple of people were unkind to me and I felt isolated and my mental health was suffering. One evening I became so overwhelmed I started crying outside a Halloween party. Everyone just ignored me. Omar was the only person who cared to notice. He brought me into my flat and sat down to talk and make sure I was ok. I opened up about how I was struggling to make friends because, unlike others in my flat, I wasn’t very loud. Omar reassured me that I didn’t need to be the loudest person in the room to be liked and that I was perfect the way I was. He empathised, saying he’d felt similarly in the past but had since made so many amazing friends at university and that it would all work out in the end.
He made sure to check up on me afterwards, and even stood up for me in front of everyone when a couple of people were ridiculing me. Another time I was panicking because I didn’t have anyone to share a house with. He connected me with his friend Arwen so I could move in with her and her flatmates. I am now very close friends with them and we still live together. Omar didn’t have to do those things for me. He had made some incredible friendships right off the bat, yet he took the time to notice and help me when he could have easily ignored it. But as you know, that’s the kind of person he was, and so many people share similar stories. I’ve not seen kindness like it, and I’ve yet to meet someone since, with the same capacity to empathise and care the way he did. I really needed someone at that time, more than anyone probably knew, and his kindness meant everything to me. I’m in a much better place now and I don’t think I would have gotten here if it wasn’t for Omar's help. Despite our heartbreak and pain, it’s a beautiful thing that he left the world a much better place, and that by just being himself he managed to impact so many people's lives.
Aiden Green, university friend
Omar, firstly I want to start by saying that you will never understand how much you were loved by everyone at university. I remember the first time I saw you at a party in Greenbank and your had the most infectious smile and personality that lit up every room that you entered. From just chilling and chatting in the flat, to playing football against you in the cages, you were such an important part of our lives. If I ever had any problems, you were the first person I would go to, which is a credit to the kind, caring and understanding character that you were. You will never be forgotten and I will remember all of the unbelievably happy times that we shared. Maybe I'll have to finally accept that you're easily the best goalkeeper I've ever played against! We're heartbroken Omar. Gone but NEVER forgotten.
My boy for life. Love you lots mate. Rest in perfect peace. Aiden x
Ella Bryant, university friend
Omar, I've never been very good with words, but I would like to say that you never failed to brighten my day, always smiling and with a compliment even when I looked my worst. Your passion for the things you loved in life has and will continue to inspire me and there are no words for how much I will miss you. Thank you for making my university experience; it was a pleasure to have spent it with you and I will miss your smiling face walking down Thornycroft Road.
Thank you for everything and for adding so much to my life. You'll never walk alone.
Lots of love, Ella xxxx
David Ballantyne, family friend
I didn't get to know the 'adult' Omar as much as I would have liked. There are a number of things I still would have loved to have done with him, such as see SWANS live together at least once, get him into The Fall and let him school me in the genius of Kanye West, watch Tarkovsky's brilliant Stalker and then talk about it afterwards over a few drinks; but most of all I'd just have liked some more grown up time with him. So although I miss him l'm still grateful for the times I had with him... one of which was a chat we had during a quiet interlude at your 50th birthday party, which felt a bit special to me as it seemed like we were on the edge of those more grown up, sharing conversations we have as adults.
Glimpses of a Boy by David Ballantyne
Flicker
A baby new born…. huge dark eyes, looking up
The first of the learner parents
‘Let someone else hold him.’
(Laughter)
Huge dark eyes looking up
‘OMAR’
Omar and Connie…. crawling and watching
Alison and Farah…. watching
Visits, coffee mornings, birthdays, reunions, parties, anniversaries
Mischief….’He’s a little devil!’
‘He stood on the toilet seat and threw toys and bathroom stuff out of the window.’
(Laughter)
‘’Aunty Alison’’ ‘’Uncle David’’
Flicker
Tiny photo… Omar, Talib (like little droogs) and Connie
It slipped and it disappeared…. behind the fireplace
……are you still there?
Liverpool boys become London Boys
Shadows from the Westway
Quiet watching clever boy
Hulk, Spiderman, Batman, Joker
Chihiro, Totoro, Howl, Laputa
Omar watching and listening
Writer, Professor, Stalker, Zone
Gira, Seer, Kanye, MDTF
Glimpses of the conversations we had begun and the conversations I was looking forward to
Glimpses of the boy you were and the man you would become
Flicker
Stephen Conroy, followed Omar on Twitter
I am one of the many, many people who quickly gravitated towards Omar once I started talking to him online. I had admired his football and data expertise for a long time while having occasional interactions with him, but during lockdown we ended up talking every day. Although lockdown was such a tough time for everyone, Omar was always such a beacon of positivity. Always available to discuss football, music, movies, his cat Katsu (with regular videos of course!) and life in general.
As a Scouser myself, I always thought that when Omar moved up to Liverpool, we’d plan to meet up, but life passes by too quickly and you always think you’ll have more time. I wish more than anything, that I had messaged him and made those plans…
I wish you and your family all the strength in the world. I can’t imagine what this last year must have been like.
The world is a worse place without Omar in it.
Tabatha Sprosen, university friend
Omar, I cannot put into words how grateful I am to have met you and what an amazing impact you had on my life. You were one of my first friends at university and quickly became one of my closest friends. The aura you radiated was always that of positivity and kindness and you brought that into every room you entered. You were the highlight of my week whenever I saw you. You were the best of us and the world does not understand what they have lost. I will love you always and thank you. Tabs x
Reza Rafati Fard, primary school friend
Thinking back to my childhood, many of my favourite moments were spent with Omar and our friends at primary school. I learnt many things from Omar: he taught me to be kind and humble; he taught me that a bit of competition takes you further in life than you could imagine; he taught me that having quirky interests was cool - I still remember his contagious obsession with arthropods …. I collected twenty that summer! I think above all Omar taught me that being your unapologetic self was the essence of living a fulfilled life. Although it’s been almost ten years since I saw him last, I’m no less moved by our childhood together. I am truly thankful to have had such an amazing friend. Recently I have been reflecting more on these moments and although they often overwhelm me with grief, I’m also filled with a sense of peace that Omar was able to positively influence the lives of so many others. I hope you rest in peace my dear friend.
Helena Venthum Murphy, Omar’s year 2 teacher at Oxford Gardens Primary school.
Remembering Omar - A super smart six year old with an eye for detail!
From the first day you walked into my class, you always had a quirky question or an amazing answer to offer. It was a privilege to teach you and I especially loved creating an extension box of special books for you and your awesome group of friends who always finished their work so swiftly and were hungry for a challenge!
My fondest memories of our time together were in ‘Hooray For History’ drama club where you got the chance to really show off your sense of humour and create wonderful, crazy little sketches with your besties. I’ll never forget your intelligence, humour and imagination and I’ll always remember our special family meet up in Lyme Regis
Much love to you Omar and all your wonderful family xxx
Rose Barker, university friend
My name is Rose and I was one of Omar’s friends at Liverpool, in his ‘wider’ group. I really don’t think many days have gone by this past year when I haven’t thought of Omar and I do not say that lightly. In every walk to university, every sunny day or night out, I think of how much he would have loved it. If that is how I feel, I can only imagine how you and the family must have felt and continue to feel every day. My heart goes out to every single one of you. From what I have heard you are a beautiful family and he loved his siblings very much!
I knew I wanted to message you from the moment I heard, to make sure you knew how treasured he was among all of his friends. As it is a year ago now, I feel like it is the right time to get in touch and really wanted you to know how much he is still on my mind and in my heart.
Honestly, when I think of him, it just makes me smile. His great big grin and big brown eyes would just be hanging on my every word as I spoke to him, undoubtedly in reply to his question ‘How are you Rose? Looking as gorgeous as ever!’ He always had a compliment to give and I’d often catch him looking at everyone around him and smiling. He was always the first to get up from his chair and remember everything we last spoke about together. Thinking of you all lots.
love, Rose
Sophia Wills, university friend.
Omar and I were friends at university, our ‘girls’ house in second year would attend lots of events with the ‘boys’ house and he left such a beautiful impression on my life.
I will always remember seeing Omar at an event once, and he’d noticed that I wasn’t quite myself, after receiving some sad news. Although we weren’t close, he messaged me later that day to check I was okay, and then again a week later when I saw him, he checked up on me again.
Omar would always remember the fine details of what you had spoken about the last time you saw one another. Because of that, he made you feel so seen and heard, in an environment where everyone is gasping for air, as they develop their sense of who they are. He truly was such a kind soul inside and out, not many people have a talent for truly noticing someone. He didn’t just check once, but triple checked that I was okay, and for that I will be forever grateful.
I’m not entirely sure why I’m writing this to you as I’m sure you already know, but even in the small encounters, your son was a beautiful human who radiated comfort and kindness. He will always be in my heart and I will always try and reflect his kindness in the way I carry myself and treat others.
Solomon Bird, university friend
Good afternoon Farah. I know we’ve never met and it pains me so much that your beautiful son never got to introduce us, but I spent a lot of meaningful time with Omar and he spoke of you and your lovely family with pride and loving words everyday. Between our endless conversations about food, travels music, vinyl, he fondly recalled your unbelievable stories of meeting famous musicians in late-night food shops after concerts, seeing the Roots in Heebie Jeebies (where years later we spent many a Thursday night) and even the mundanity of family meals with a glint in his eye.
Not only was he the most loved boy I’ve ever met, but beyond all else, he was the most loving. I could spend days writing anecdotes of just how he gave his life in service to others, myself included. His astonishing generosity of heart is a testament to his upbringing and has touched so many people so deeply like no other.
We’ve all been left with a broken heart and can’t stop reflecting on how he was a guardian angel amongst men. I miss him so much and can’t believe I had the honour of calling him one of my brothers.
I can’t begin to imagine what you’re going through but I hope that our messages reinforce what you already know about Omar and bring you even an inch closer to peace of mind.
Take care, Solomon x
Jess Wilson, Omar’s year 6 teacher, Oxford Gardens Primary School.
Omar. I see you.
I’ve seen you in Ikea smiling in conversation with another young adult.
I’ve seen you playing football against my son on a Sunday (You won!)
I will always see you in faces I know cannot be yours.
I recognise those serious, smiling eyes that listen and read everything so well - the written, the verbal and non-verbal. A striking reminder of your cheerful curiosity.
In my mind’s eye I see you so clearly. Your sly grin in class whenever those maths results were shared. Few can balance academic competitiveness with such care, respect and humility.
You are so clear in my mind for many reasons.
Quiet but strong. Talented yet humble. Clever but compassionate. Gentle yet eager. Polite but resolute. Supportive yet determined. Popular but independent. Contemplative yet curious. Focused but cheerful.
Teachers often say that “a child is a joy to teach” and you certainly were that. We as teachers find joy when a child finds joy in learning. You had that, found it every day, thrived on it. It’s how you overcame and prospered.
Thank you for the joy, Omar. I will continue to learn from you. You will always remain that eleven-year-old in my mind. But I will still see you.
Maybe you’ll be at the train station tomorrow.
Willa Grace, university friend
Omar there are many roles to describe you, but I will use the ones I feel best describe how I knew you: A comrade to me in all our battles in the flat. A prankster always ensuring everyone was laughing. An athlete, watching you put your absolute all into those football games, even when I told you you couldn't with a broken finger. A therapist, talking through all of my stresses and making sure I always felt heard. A ray of sunshine, I do not remember a single time you did not have a smile on your face. A tutor, always helping me through my very late assignments and explaining all our lectures. Finally, a friend, always considerate, caring, friendly and totally unbiased in who you expressed your love to. Love and miss you always, your Willa Grace x
Arwen Taylor, university friend and lab partner
To speak about Omar in the past tense is painful, but being able to speak about him at all is something I am grateful for every day. Omar was, and still is, the most incredible person I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I say that out of no formality. I felt it when he was with me, and I still feel it now. Every day that I spent with him, he would teach me a little bit more about the beauty of genuine, uncomplicated friendship. He loved fully, cared unapologetically, and gave all of himself to every person around him. He had a beautiful mind, and a warm sense of familiarity about him, regardless of whether you had known him ten years or ten minutes.
Being back in lecture rooms and labs that we used to sit in together has been a surreal feeling, but also bittersweet in a way; we shared so many happy memories that it has been nice to relive them recently. I have always felt grateful that I got to spend so much time with Omar as a result of our shared course; friends first, lab partners second. Our experiments were often unsuccessful, lab sessions were rarely attended on time, and a lack of stationary was common. We often shared one pen between us. Our lab handbooks were filled with each other’s handwriting and (unflattering) portraits we had drawn of each other, our desks were unorganised and results sections were filled with less than accurate numbers. We often used to joke that once someone had worked with both of us together, they would never repeat the same mistake. But Omar had a special way of making every professional uni lecture or lab session feel like being back in primary school; he was forever making jokes, making me laugh, and being so personable that he had every lab technician wrapped around his finger. His intelligence was obvious, and he demonstrated it frequently in the essays and reports he would write. There was no problem that he couldn’t solve, and no topic that he couldn’t master. Biology was never my first choice for a degree and engaging was always a struggle for me, but Omar’s company made even the hardest lecture worthwhile. We operated our uni days on a strict policy of ‘if you go, I’ll go’. He was the only reason I made it onto campus most days.
One of my favourite memories of him was his 21st birthday last year. In the days before he had been sharing pictures and videos with me of the scrapbook you made him; one page for every year. He was particularly interested in showing me the pictures of him camping in Wales; I found it heartwarming that years before we would meet, we were holidaying in the same areas with our families. When I arrived at his birthday party, I didn’t receive so much as a hello; he took me straight upstairs to see the scrapbook in person. The smile on his face was massive as he showed me each memory. The love in those pages was undeniable. My favourite memories from that night were with a small group of people who had collected over time in his room, away from the noise downstairs, his door propped wide open as he asked for our favourite songs and played them by ear on his keyboard. This was the Omar I knew at university; surrounded by love, revelling in the business and commotion of partying and going out, but with the only goal of the night being to spend time with the people he cared about. He found ways to engage with the widest range of different people; many friendships I owe to Omar’s platonic matchmaking ability. In these friendships I believe that he is still with me. I miss him completely
Omar, what an honour to be a small part of your beautiful life. Words could never encapsulate the whole of you. You burned so brightly. I’ll miss you forever.
Arwen x
Gabriel Sharp, university friend
I don’t know where to start and can’t even begin to imagine how you are all feeling right now. My name is Gabriel and in second year Omar and I became close and I enjoyed his company immensely on every occasion we were together. It pains me that I won’t be able to live with him in third year as planned. Omar was so loving and I felt so listened to every time we spoke and this is why it pains me so much that he didn’t reach out. We all had so much time together and he was so loved. I remember we went to an event where I felt uncomfortable in the group. Rather than staying with everyone, Omar made sure I was ok and we hung out together the whole night. I remember him making me feel so comfortable and seeing his infectious smile calmed me down massively. It is because of him that I could enjoy my night.
Omar had such a beautiful soul and of all us can’t thank you enough for the person you shaped him into. I’m so sorry for your loss and anything you need from any of us boys, we’re here.
Sending my love to you and the family x
Emmanuel Menelik, primary school friend
Omar affected me greatly, and one of the things he directly influenced was my taste in music. As some of you may already know Omar ran an Instagram account in his teens where he would critique and discuss music he enjoyed. I listened to a lot of the music he recommended, and most of those artists I still listen to today. I have fond memories associated with these songs and artists and I’ll forever be grateful to Omar for this. It was a privilege to call him my friend.
Emmanuel x
Faiq Aziz, university friend
I’m still in disbelief and if I’m honest I’m struggling. I don’t think I can put into words how much Omar meant to me, as a friend, as a brother. He held me when I cried and it kills me that I wasn’t able to do the same for him. I just want you to know how sorry I am. I need you to always remember how much of an immense upbringing you gave that boy. Your characteristics shine through him and you should all be so proud. He truly was taken too soon and the number of people who have come to show their respect and love should be a sign to you of how amazing a boy you raised. Whether in a single interaction with him, or being best mates with him, his energy and love shone through everyone and resonated within them. He left an impact on everyone beyond belief. I know nothing I will say will bring your boy back, but I hope these words somewhat soothe some of the pain you are going through. I am so sorry I was not able to help him more. He was not my friend but my brother and it was a pleasure spending two years with him, despite him being a Liverpool fan!
At Friday prayer I prayed for him and so did my family, he is in their prayers every day and night. In Islam our prayers go to the deceased like presents, so regardless of what he believes, I know he will be stacked high with presents in heaven.
All my love to you and your family always, Faiq x
Romeo Roberts Alkaff, primary school friend
Omar, I'm still in disbelief. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being one of my first friends. I know school would have been a lot more boring if we weren't playing basketball at break time or messing about in class. We're all gonna miss you. Rest easy bro, love from Romeo
Luca Taggart, university friend
My university experience wouldn’t have been the same without Omar. Omar was a very supportive and reassuring friend, and I knew he would always make time for me when I needed it most. Omar’s ability to thrive in all of his endeavours made such complex challenges look so straightforward. This effortless capability of his is something I’ve never witnessed before and don’t think I ever will. It is so rare to find a person with levels of compassion and kindness so profound. I feel truly blessed that I was able to call Omar one of my closest friends.
Charlotte Gwynne, university friend
Omar it is hard to find the words to say when everyone has already described you so beautifully and perfectly. Nothing I say will ever do you justice so thank you being such a light in my life and my biggest 'hypeman'. I will always be reminded of you in everything I do, every Liverpool match I watch, every time I hear a piano, every time I walk down Thornycroft Road. I will look for you in every room I enter and can only hope I can see you in some way. I love you and will forever miss you, Charlotte xx
James Colenutt, football coach and teacher St Marylebone School
I had the pleasure of coaching Omar in the football team at St Marylebone Sixth Form for two years. I wanted to offer my sincere condolences for your loss and pass on my love to your family.
Omar was an exceptional young man. He was enthusiastic, kind, polite, always eager to get involved, with a maturity way beyond his years. He was the star in every match we played, winning the respect of all his teammates with outrageous saves and a cool precision under pressure. In his second year, he captained the side, not an easy job with the range of egos and personalities, but he did it with calm authority, always leading by example: the first to reply to emails, the first to thank the referee, the first to thank the teachers, never blaming others, never talking back to referees. He never shouted or gave big speeches, but he was the leader and he lived it every game, he didn't need to shout. We held him in such high regard and he will be sorely missed by all those who knew him.
I am so sorry for your loss.
James
Steve Crawford, Omar's head of Year at Burlington Danes Academy
I was truly devastated to hear the news about Omar. He was a wonderful, intelligent young man with a kind and gentle heart and I can't even begin to imagine the impact that this has had and will have on the family.
Having been lucky enough to spend four years working directly with Omar, it was wonderful to see his development from a young teen into a young man. It was clear to see early on as his head of year, that he ‘stood out amongst the pack’ intellectually. His thirst for knowledge, and desire to excel made him inevitably, a great success story for Ark Burlington Danes. Whilst his passion for academia and learning was an obvious strength, his development and growth as a young man was also great to see. His confidence and quiet leadership were admired by all, and I know that he touched the lives of so many around him and in our school community.
It is with a heavy heart that I say my goodbye, however I know that his legacy will live on, and he will continue to inspire those who were always so close to him.
Rest in peace Omar.
Madeline Welch, university friend
In the short time I knew Omar, it was impossible not to recognise the true kindness and warmth he so effortlessly radiated. He was, to anyone he had met, and, especially, to those who were lucky enough to have known and loved him deeply, an unyielding ray of sunshine. His generosity, his gentle nature, his thoughtfulness, and the countless other attributes I could use to describe Omar, only touch the surface in recognising the amazing person we were blessed to have had as a part of our lives. The impact this loss has had, is testament to the love and joy he shared. His friendship is something I will forever treasure. I am grateful everyday to have met a person as wonderful as Omar, knowing him was nothing short of a gift.
Jake Blackhurst, university friend
Omar was one of my best friends at university, a huge and irreplaceable part of the group of boys who are still so tight today. I first met Omar at his flat in Greenbank, and he immediately struck me as a super-intelligent, switched on and energetic boy. He seamlessly managed to juggle a very challenging university course with a friendship group that wanted to enjoy the freedom of coming to university. Mine and Omar’s friendship really began to blossom when I set up the R-Block Massive football team and entered us into the Greenbank 5 a side league. As captain I would turn to Omar for his thoughts on who to start in which position, the qualities and dangers of the team we might be facing, and just for general support in running the team. The only position which was never under any doubt was his own, and as I’m sure anybody who saw Omar as goalkeeper would agree, he was truly incredible between the posts and single-handedly won us games against strong opposition. His quick-reflex saves and constant vocal presence from the back were an integral part of our success, and on a number of occasions Omar would be presented with the MOTM award. Writing this genuinely brings a tear to my eye. Omar, myself and the rest of the boys will forever love you, value and remember the incredible impact you had on the group, with your amazing cooking, limitless knowledge, hilarious jokes and those bright, bright eyes. I think about you every day mate
Ada Brooks, family friend
I remember when us kids were playing: I was nine and Omar was twelve. He was pretending to be an evil king called Fergus. He said ‘We’re going to have roast Afra instead of roast chicken!’ Me and Afra said we were going to cook roast Omar. For dinner, Farah cooked roast Omar, roast potatoes and gravy.
I miss you so much Omar and wish we could have spent more time together. But even though you are no longer with us, I will forever remember your kindness warmth and intelligence. You will shine on in my heart for eternity
Love Ada xxxxxxxxx
Narjis Trabelsi, teacher, Oxford Gardens Primary School
You were a pleasure to teach. I have the fondest memories of our lessons and in depth discussions. Your questions were the best! I could have debated with you all day. An amazingly beautiful soul!
Love from Miss T
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