How have the cultures of Iran and Canada influenced your political decisions and actions? Both cultures have taught me valuable lessons Canadian society has shown me the importance of democratic principles, while Iranian culture has instilled a deep sense of community and respect for tradition. These influences shape my work in advocating for policies that honour both tradition and progress. How do you connect with the Iranian community in Canada? How do you try to improve their status? I regularly meet with Iranian community leaders and organizations to understand their concerns and work to address them. By supporting initiatives that promote social and economic opportunities, I aim to enhance the visibility and contributions of Iranian-Canadians and ensure they have equal access to opportunities in Canada. What do you like most about Iran? Iranian culture is incredibly rich, from the hospitality and warmth of its people to the delicious food, beautiful poetry, and traditional music. It’s a culture of resilience, kindness, and artistry that I hold dear and strive to keep connected with.
Which politicians are your role models? I would say that Nelson Mandela is my role model in politics due to his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Have you considered returning to Iran, or do you plan to continue living and working in Canada? Canada is my home, and I’m committed to continuing my work here. While I cherish my heritage, I believe I can make a positive difference in the lives of Iranian-Canadians and all residents here. What aspects of living in Canada do you like the most and what aspects do you like the least? I appreciate the multiculturalism, the open-minded society, and the strong democratic values in Canada. The challenging part is the cold winters, but even they are an opportunity to embrace a new experience! Besides working in politics, are you involved in any other activities? Yes, I participate in community service activities and volunteer with organizations that support newcomers and provide social and economic opportunities for residents.
In your opinion, what qualities and abilities should a politician have? Integrity, empathy, resilience, and a commitment to serving others are essential. Politicians should also be good listeners and capable of making decisions based on what’s best for their communities, not just their own interests. As a Member of Provincial Parliament, how are your responsibilities defined? What impact do you have on the community? As an MPP, my role includes representing my constituents’ concerns, voting on provincial laws, and working on initiatives that directly impact local needs. The impact I hope to have is creating positive change, whether it’s through improved social services, healthcare access, or community-building projects.
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