Shahin

“I want to help women find a safe space to be themselves. There’s so much judgement everywhere we go, I’ve experienced it my whole life, and I want girls and women to be unapologetically their true selves.”

Shahin works as a customer service adjuster at an insurance corporation during the day, and at night she dedicates herself as the Operations Manager of BC non-profit Voices of Muslim Women, an organization that aims to build community by bringing together self-identifying Muslims. Her proudest accomplishment is learning how to live a happier lifestyle by acknowledging mental health is just as important as physical health. She finds this exemplified at the end of a yoga class when she’s feeling relaxed and de-stressed. She added that her biggest hope is to “live a happy, stress free life. I don’t know where I’ll end up years from now but my only wish and hope is to be happy with wherever I live and whatever I’m doing.” Shahin’s happiest when she’s surrounded by family, watching hockey and basketball, and thrill seeking (whether that be bungee jumping or skydiving.) Shahin told me her favourite quality is, “I’m very understanding and honest. I get life, understand circumstances, and give everyone the benefit of doubt. I no longer judge people based on appearance. I’m honest to a point where I can’t stand it when I’m lied to. Once I’ve caught someone in a lie, my respect and how I see them changes.”

Q&A Feature:

What is one thing you know for sure?

"I know for sure that no matter what happens, my family will always be there for one another and no matter how bad I mess up they will forever have my back. I [also] know for sure Allah has a path for us all and no matter what we do or how upset we get, it’s where we’re meant to be."