's legacy is forever present in the hearts of those he touched, and in the minds of those he inspired and continues to inspire, writes Abdel-Moneim Said Seldom have I come across a personality like 's, one in which the highest standards of professionalism are combined with emotional warmth, where meticulous accuracy is coupled with forgiveness of the foibles of others. Sometimes it seems that Hosny was a breed apart. He left an indelible mark on everyone he met, not least because of the sincerity of his interest in the many people who crossed his path. Hosny joined the foreign desk of Al-Ahram in 1964. Throughout the 39 years he spent at the foundation he was an example and model of the zealous journalist, of the democratic boss and the compassionate colleague. His intelligence and dependability were apparent early in his Ahram career and quickly attracted attention. He spent some time being groomed for the job of foreign editor, to which post he was appointed in 1979. Throughout the organisation he was known to be an exemplary boss. He never abused his position but led gently, by example, without ever compromising his own exacting standards. I believe Hosny's style of leadership to be his greatest legacy. He nurtured and shaped generations of reporters and editors. Though he had an eye for potential and recognised talent he was at heart a democrat. He would deny no one the opportunity to learn, even those with no obvious talent. He respected people's willingness to apply themselves and would never withhold an opportunity for advancement if it was deserved. As a colleague Hosny possessed a warmth and compassion rarely found in a professional environment. His concern for people never faltered. Nor was it false: deeply rooted in his character, it underlay all his actions, just as it informed his professional ethics. People really mattered to Hosny and he cared deeply about the details of their lives. His was a personality that attracted people from different, and sometimes opposite, intellectual and social back grounds. I have yet to meet the person who failed to recognise the angelic nature of his character. It is six years since Hosny passed away. His achievements, though, remain with us. He comes to life every Thursday, with each issue of Al-Ahram Weekly, a paper that would not have existed without his relentless efforts, inspiring dedication and creativity. Mention of 's name never fails to produce a smile of honest appreciation. His legacy is forever present in the hearts of those he touched, and in the minds of those he inspired and continues to inspire. The example he set will never be forgotten. It is right for such a spirit to be mourned for years and years to come. It saddens me that one must write about Hosny in the past tense. There is consolation, though, in the act of remembering, and of remembering Hosny in the manner he deserves. Rest in peace my friend.
