Shiva Olyaei

As an alumna of the Peter Allard School of Law with a doctoral degree from UBC, I am thrilled to introduce myself as a professor of Law, Policy Studies, and Political Science. With a strong background in these fields, including my master's degree in international law and LLM degree in common law, I am deeply committed to serving my community and promoting social justice praxis. Teaching has always been my passion, as I believe it is through classrooms that can make a lasting impact.

My love, respect, and enthusiasm for the subjects I teach have always been evident in my interactions with students. I strive to create a dynamic learning environment where course content sparks engaging discussions, encourages questions, and stimulates debates. It is through this exchange of ideas that we delve into controversial and emotionally charged topics, always wrapping up our classes with laughter, positive energy, and hope.

Beyond the classroom, I actively bridge the gap between academia and civil society. Currently, I serve as an elected ombudsperson at BC Greens after serving my community as a vice president at Farsi dar BC non-profit. These roles allow me to further advocate for equitable and just treatment, drawing from my critical legal lens and my exposure to diverse perspectives. 

I am also deeply committed to educating myself and my community about Indigenous rights, history, and the decolonization process. This awareness has inspired me to facilitate political literacy workshops, volunteer with organizations like ISS and MOSAIC, and obtain certifications as a life and leadership coach, as well as an accredited judicial translator and interpreter. These endeavors aim to address gaps and promote inclusivity.

On a personal note, I want to share that I am a settler immigrant residing on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Musqueam people, where I live with my husband and two children. Being in this vibrant community has given me the opportunity to find great joy in making connections and meeting people from diverse backgrounds. Wether through travel, volunteer work, or social events, I cherish these opportunities. Enriching my life and sparking creativity, I enjoy reading books, watching films, and listening to intellectually stimulating world music and podcasts. Exploring different cuisines, especially with my daughter, is also a delight. Traditional Persian cuisine holds a special place in my heart, but I also relish a good butter chicken or sushi meal.

Together, let us embark on a transformative journey of learning, growth, and positive change!