Coming from a diverse cultural background, Anahit Falihi joined the Saskatoon Open Door Society (SODS) in November 2006. Prior to joining SODS, she was involved in art and design activities from costume and set design to art direction for feature films and television series. She co-founded and coordinated the first non-profit filmmaking organization in Saskatoon, and also worked as a researcher, visual artist and educator with various communities, colleges and universities.
Joining SODS opened up a new area of passion and growth in Anahit’s career, enabling her to direct her creativity towards diversity and community learning and development. She has held multiple leading roles at SODS within various units and has played a key part in initiating, developing, and expanding many programs. She is committed to ensuring that newcomers receive the support they need to thrive in their new community and constantly seeks innovative ways to enhance the services SODS provides.
Anahit, inspired by her role at SODS, completed a second Master’s degree in Educational Foundations and then a PhD in Educational Leadership, both at the University of Saskatchewan. In her PhD studies, she explored the challenges faced by community leaders providing culturally responsive child and family support services within a learning community, with a focus on community capacity building and development strategies. In her current position as the Director of Settlement and Integration programs, she combines her academic and research background with her direct experience of migration and integration.
Alongside her work, Anahit maintains an interest in music, visual art, poetry, archaeology and philosophy, and volunteers on various boards and committees to support initiatives related to social justice, diversity, and equity.