Mursal Ashrafi

Project: Deconstructing and Transforming the Narrative of "Good Woman" in Hazara Afghan communities in Canada

Short description: My research explores how inherited gender narratives shape the identities and life choices of Hazara Afghan women in the Canadian diaspora. Using narrative foresight tools, I aim to deconstruct the patriarchal “good woman” narrative and co-design alternative stories and pathways to more equitable futures with participants. By centering the voices of Hazara women who face both gendered and ethnic marginalization, this study seeks to uncover overlooked perspectives and create space for transformative change.

Mushral is a researcher by experience, an engineer by practice, and an EDI specialist by passion. She cares deeply about gender equity, inclusive practices, and equitable access to opportunities for underserved and underrepresented communities. Bringing together her academic and technical background with lived experience, she contributes to complex projects with both empathy and effectiveness. Her work includes policy and strategy development, creating assessment frameworks for inclusive practices, and developing EDI-based training content. Mushral has experience interviewing and surveying both leadership and community members, leading with compassion and dedication in addressing emotionally sensitive issues.