Hello, I’m Farrah

I am a mother, an educator, an activist, a thought leader, a coffee lover, a problem solver

I have dedicated my life to community engagement and social activism.
I write about social change, education and my life experiences.

My Take On The World

My Values

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Curiosity

I was born with it. My first word was why. Curiosity thankfully hasn’t killed this cat.

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Community

Every life has meaning and purpose. We are all here to make this world a better place together.

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Compassion

This is the root of justice and equity for all. Compassion is the difference between tokenism and respect for people.

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Humour

When you’re as short as I am, you need to have a sense of humour.

About Me

Fun Facts

I CAN PLAY THE TRUMPET

CALVIN AND HOBBES IS MY FAVOURITE COMIC

I CAN READ JUST AS WELL UPSIDE DOWN AS I CAN WITH THE BOOK RIGHT SIDE UP

I CAN'T TELL TIME ON AN ANALOG CLOCK - SERIOUSLY

I HAVE FORGOTTEN WHERE I PARKED MORE TIMES THAN I CAN COUNT, THANK GOD FOR CAMERA PHONES

I WENT TO A CHRISTIAN NUNNERY AS A CHILD

MY FIRST CAR WAS A VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE WHEN IT FIRST CAME OUT, IT MET ITS UNTIMELY END WHEN I RAN OVER AN ISLAND AND THE ENGINE SEIZED.

I'M A PERRIER MONSTER

I'M AN INTJ ACCORDING TO MY MYERS BRIGGS, THAT MEANS MY PERSONALITY MAKES UP ONLY 0.8% OF THE POPULATION. SO IF YOU THINK I'M STRANGE, YOU'RE RIGHT.

Testimonials

In the delivery room, as I cradled my first-born daughter, I immediately knew what to name her: Farrah. The name Farrah comes from the root word ‘joy’ in the Arabic language and that was precisely what she gave me: joy. Over the years, I taught her to draw meaning from her name and live her life with the sole purpose of bringing joy to others through dedicated acts of service, committed stands for justice, and loyal ties of friendship. I raised her to use her unique position as a highly educated Canadian-Muslim to better the lives of those around her.

My Mom

Farrah is a mother, educator, activist, and innovator who volunteers her time by organizing art therapy workshops for young Canadian Muslims coping with bullying, racism, and exclusion; and roundtable discussions for parents dealing with Islamophobia and Bill C-51. She has volunteered with the NDP and worked on nationwide federal elections debate for Muslim youth. For all these reasons, Farrah exemplifies the qualities of an Everyday Political Citizen.

Juror Carmen Aguirre

Farrah is a principal who cares. She is always available to me and my children. She has an open door policy and gives out her phone number to anyone who asks. Whenever I contact her, she responds within minutes. I trust my kids are in good hands.

Parent of a Former Student

Thanks for an honest and thoughtful conversation. The students and I were impressed with the work you are doing. So many challenges and possibilities… keep doing great things and stay well.

Prof. Denise Armstrong, Brock University

Award presented to Farrah Marfatia to recognise years of outstanding leadership in education and service to our community.

Former School Board

You are a truly great principal. We thought that you should know: you help us find direction when we’re not sure where to go. Your caring heart and joyous spirit brighten up our day. Thank you for all that you do is all we can say!

Former Students

“I have had the pleasure of meeting Farrah a few times, on matters related to education. She has repeatedly demonstrated a passion for helping schools and families get the best possible educational experience. Based on the exchange of ideas and discussions we have had, I have seen a person committed to community, as well as inclusivity. Farrah is a natural networker and connector but more importantly she is very caring, personable and genuine. These are traits that make Farrah a superb resource and dedicated community member.”

Aisha Sherazi, Ottawa educator and writer

Farrah’s understanding of the wider social, economic and political issues facing the Muslim community is impressive and far reaching. She demonstrated a deep and sincere appreciation for her community, husband and children. She is incisive in discussing difficult questions facing the community. This quality is critically important as we navigate uncharted territory in the climate of Islamophobia we live in today. It is not enough anymore to be content with the status quo. Farrah is the kind of community member that we need today.

Fayaz Kareem, Political Analyst/2015 Federal Election Candidate

Farah Marfatia is a talented and dedicated Muslim organizer and activist. Her integrity, passion, and drive has led her on a journey of education and growth to better herself and her community. She is a genuine leader who understands how to listen, learn and lead.

Eaman Fahmy, Community organizer

Farrah is a well-versed professional and leader within the Muslim community with expertise in community development and education. I had the pleasure of interviewing her and getting to know her through our conversation on the sex-ed curriculum in my capacity as host of Let the Quran Speak. Her expertise and knowledge in this subject made this video go viral, and many I know personally benefited from this content include myself. Any organization and any individual would be an asset to have her/work with her.

Aisha Khaja, Host of Let the Quran Speak

Accomplishments

My Blog

Our Home ‘on’ Native Land – Indigenous Education in Islamic Schools

Is there room for the National Anthem in Islamic Schools?

Dear Premier Ford, My Kids Disappeared from School – And No One Noticed

Don’t Teach Your Kids About Stranger Danger

Important resources

Native Land

A New Life in a New Land

#BlackIslamSyllabus

More Resources