FarNova
Global Medical Team
Dr. Roya Deghani
Founder & Board Member
I am a passionate advocate for the Persian community in Canadian society, and a strong believer in their resilience, responsibility, and strength.
Following the 2022 uprising after the murder of Mahsa Amini, I became active on X to support Iranians navigating trauma and to help raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention and strengthening them.
Through my work, I have sought to highlight Persian culture of taking responsibility, gratitude, critical thinking, and the importance of cooperative collaboration to support one another.
I am committed to turning awareness into meaningful support to create positive change within the Persian and Canadian community.
Zahra Shafieian
Board Member & Secretary
I am honoured to be on FarNova’s Board. As someone who imigrated myself to Canada from Iran, I am deeply passionate about supporting the advancement and interests of my fellow Persian-Canadians. Having strong familial ties in Iran, and being a proud Persian myself, I am excited to be part of FarNova as we advocate for the liberation, strength, community, advancement, and virtuosity of Persians everywhere.
Elham Sabeti
Board Member
My love for Iran, its rich culture, and its invaluable heritage was one of the most important reasons I chose to join FarNova. I believe that culture is the foundation of growth, development, and connection among individuals and communities. Preserving and promoting Iranian culture and passing this precious heritage on to future generations is, for me, both a responsibility and an honor.
I am proud and grateful to serve as a member of the Board of Directors of Farhang Novin, alongside a group of people who share a deep love for Iran and its rich cultural heritage. I am honored to contribute, even in a small way, to this meaningful journey.
Saloumeh Ahadi
CEO
I am a community leader, project professional, and certified coach with a passion for bringing people together and helping communities thrive. Through my work with nonprofit organizations, newcomer support, and community engagement, I have seen firsthand how cultural differences and communication barriers can make it difficult for people and families to feel truly connected and supported. I am passionate about creating spaces where people from different backgrounds can understand one another, feel a sense of belonging, and build meaningful connections.
As CEO, I am proud to be part of FarNova and to help create initiatives that support newcomers, families, and communities across Canada. I believe that diversity is one of Canada’s greatest strengths, and that when we create opportunities for people to connect, learn from one another, and feel included, we build stronger communities for everyone.
Hilda Hosseini
CFO
I’m honoured to be on FarNova’s board as the Chief Financial Officer. My hope is to strengthen FarNova financially so we can support the many Persian-Canadian immigrants and citizens of Canada. Although I now live in Canada, no matter where I am or how many years pass, Iran will always be in my heart. I am passionate about promoting the safety of Persians everywhere and helping Persians thrive.
Marjan Kasirlou
As a healthcare professional and leader, I am very passionate about advocacy for compassionate and equitable care. With more than 25 years of experience across acute care, chronic care, long-term care, retirement living, and home care, I have had the privilege of working with patients, families, and healthcare professionals from many different backgrounds. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about finding innovative ways to improve care and create opportunities for others, including pioneering Ontario’s first Long-Term Care Outreach Home Hemodialysis Program and developing new pathways for internationally educated healthcare professionals in assisted dialysis. My work has also included advocating for the well-being of older adults, clinical education, research, and quality improvement.
My commitment to helping others extends beyond healthcare. I have always believed that meaningful change begins when we are willing to stand up for people whose voices are not being heard. As a former candidate for provincial parliament in Ontario and an advocate for human rights, I am deeply committed to the freedom and future of Iran and to supporting the Iranian people in their pursuit of a free and democratic country. I am proud to be part of FarNova and to contribute my experience, passion, and voice to a cause rooted in human dignity, freedom, and hope.
Ava R.
Operations & Logistics
I am honoured to be part of FARNOVA and to contribute to its mission of empowering and supporting the Persian community. Born in Tehran, Iran, I have called Canada home since 2007, and my own experience as an immigrant has shaped my passion for helping others build meaningful and successful lives in their new communities. I am currently pursuing my medical degree and have previously served as a Director of an international not-for-profit organization, in addition to working with various charities and community organizations. Through FARNOVA, I hope to use my experiences in healthcare, nonprofit leadership, and community service to help empower Persian immigrants, strengthen our community, and create opportunities for Persians to thrive in Canada and around the world.