Women’s Association of Yaran (WAY) – The Voice of Women

Women’s Association of Yaran is an independent, non-profit community organization established on March 8, 2023, with the mission of fostering solidarity and mutual support among Persian-speaking women in Vancouver. The organization is dedicated to promoting justice, advancing women’s rights, and working toward the elimination of violence against women. We believe that women and men are entitled to equal rights in all social, legal, and civic spheres.

Through a strong focus on public awareness initiatives and psychological support, we strive to advance our vision: enhancing women’s understanding of their human and gender rights, strengthening their sense of agency, and supporting them in achieving their full potential. We envision a world in which gender does not limit a woman’s ability to pursue her ambitions.

In March 2023, Ms. Soheila Tabatabai and Ms. Mehrokh Ghaffari Mehr—both active members of the Yaran Book Club since 2011—organized a modest and heartfelt gathering in honor of International Women’s Day at Ms. Tabatabai’s residence. The event featured Iranian music, speeches, poetry readings, and storytelling, and was attended by approximately 40 women and men residing in Vancouver. Following this successful gathering and several subsequent community meetings, the Women’s Association of Yaran was formally established. Thereafter, during a General Assembly and through a democratic election process, the organization’s Charter and Bylaws were reviewed and approved by its members.

The Bylaws of Yaran Women’s Center are based on the regulatory framework governing non-profit societies in British Columbia, Canada, and were formally ratified by the General Assembly. In accordance with these Bylaws, a five-member Board of Directors is elected by the membership through a democratic process to advance the organization’s mission and objectives. Members of the Board serve a two-year term.

The Board of Directors works in close collaboration with the membership, which includes women and men committed to the organization’s Charter and mission. The Center’s activities are carried out through various committees operating under the guidance of the Board in areas such as women’s affairs, literature, education, and public relations. A significant component of the Center’s work involves organizing educational, cultural, artistic, health-related, and psychological programs, both in-person and online.

We are committed to mutual support and collective progress. Through the collaboration of women and men, we strive to take meaningful and sustained steps toward raising awareness of women’s human and gender rights and strengthening their capacities and empowerment.