Unity Through Revolution

By Kian Abghari Mulgrave Class of 2008

I’ve always been proud of being an Iranian Canadian. I’ve been blessed to come from the ancestral Persian roots that were the basis of a constitution and a civilised society and in 1996 I was given the opportunity to be raised in Canada, where I got to live ‘free’.

My years at Mulgrave helped me understand the importance of inclusion through projects, social clubs, and annual trips to countries around the world. I was exposed to a variety of cultures and got to meet people who made me value my life so much more and appreciate the differences we all share.

Being Iranian has always given me a sense of pride but there has also always been the negativity posed by the Iranian government that has caused me to refer to myself as Persian instead. Since the start of the first modern-day, womenled revolution that started in Iran in September 2022, I’ve never been prouder to call myself an Iranian. These past seven months I’ve witnessed relentless bravery from so many young women and men in Iran. Their drive to protest despite the consequences they face is inspiring. What I’ve enjoyed most though is the unity that has been brought about within Iranians in the diaspora.

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Whether attending protests, sharing issues on social media, or calling on elected officials throughout the world, I’ve never felt more involved in who I am.

For those of you wondering if this revolution is still taking place, the answer is yes. Thankfully though due to the efforts of so many thousands of people on social media and more importantly on the ground in Iran, it is now being covered by actual media. There is a clear group of leaders forming an opposition and in time, hopefully, the world will unite in supporting the Iranian people to have a fair and true referendum that will let them choose the future of their country.

This year, we say farewell to two long-serving members of the Mulgrave team and welcome them to our alumni family.

Nicola Read Teacher - 28 Years

Nicola has been with Mulgrave almost since the beginning and her heartfelt teaching style has left an indelible mark on many students who are more passionate about the arts and writing, better critical thinkers, and fiercely independent. She’s had an incredible impact through her teaching, leadership in the development and design of our new PYP Makerspace, and mentorship of colleagues in their pursuit to honour student work through visual displays. Nicola will be remembered for her wonderful sense of humour and abilities as a great storyteller (with so many stories to tell after chaperoning years of Eastern Canada trips!).