In most friend groups, there's always that one person that can validate your emotions like no one else can. They're both an unofficial therapist and a delusional hype woman, a sounding board and a shit talker, and most importantly, they're the person who isn't afraid to let their own guard down, giving you full permission to fall apart. This is what I like to call the "Amaya Papaya friend."

Yes, based on Amaya "Papaya" Espinal from season seven of "Love Island USA" (who's also our "Feel-Good Person of the Year" [1]), this is the type of person you absolutely want in your life. Why? Because, as the founder of the "sensitive gangster" movement [2], Espinal validated emotional and confident baddies everywhere. She reminded her fellow contestants and viewers at home that you are good enough just as you are. And if you've ever wished your friend group had one of these types of friends, here's exactly what it looks like, why it matters, and how to find (or become) your own.

What Is an Amaya Papaya Friend?

As you'd expect from its name, an Amaya Papaya friend is based on the "Love Island USA" star. On the reality TV show, there were multiple instances where Espinal doubled down on her emotions, showing everyone that strength comes from vulnerability. From defending her expressive nature during the "Stand on Business" challenge [3] to comforting Nic [4] (aka Mommy's Little Meatball) when he shed tears about missing his family, Espinal always showed up. This is why the Amaya Papaya friend is the one who will always be there for you — completely unfiltered, loyal, and always ready to make you feel seen.

So how do you spot an Amaya Papaya friend? Though Espinal had her very own "Amaya-isms" that made her who she is, there are still a few standout personality traits you want to look for. Of course, Amaya Papaya friends can show up in different ways in every friendship, but here are some common characteristics:

• They cry at basically everything, so you don't have to feel bad about feeling equally big emotions.
• . . . Because they cry at basically everything, they're extremely empathetic and understanding.
• They give the best pep talks, even if they really need one themself.
• They never judge you but always come with an opinion.
• They call you out for unacceptable behavior, but they'll also defend you to the death.
• They provide comic relief during situations that otherwise wouldn't be funny.
• They are your biggest cheerleader.

Why Having an Amaya Papaya Friend Is the Best

Sometimes, life can be messy. And when plans fall through, exes follow new girls on Instagram, and group chats explode in the middle of the night, you need an Amaya Papaya friend. This is because, no matter what, they will always show up physically and emotionally (even if it means they cry about the situation more than you do).

But Amaya Papaya friends are important for more than just the tough times in life. At their core, they are your biggest supporter, constantly celebrating you for who you are and what you accomplish. These types of friends truly see their loved ones as whole people, noticing when they're stressed, sad, angry, or just off. (And let's be honest, someone truly seeing you and understanding all of your states is an underrated part of a friendship.)

In a world where you can find a couch friend [5], a bonus friend [6], a VIP friend [7], or a sleepover friend [8], sometimes the best one to have is simply an Amaya Papaya friend.