Iftu Hargaaya (she/her)

Educator, Community Organizer and Peer Supporter

Peace be upon you,

My name is Iftu and I am the child of Juhar, who is the child of Waday, who is the child of Hargaaya whose ancestry traces back to Oromo, and the African land of Oromia. Currently, I am located in Mokhinstsis, Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta from the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, and the Métis Nation represented by the Otipemisiwak Métis Government.

As an educator with over 10 years of experience I believe deeply in creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and supported.

My work is grounded in the principles of anti-oppression, systemic change and focused on addressing the root causes of social injustices.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working as an educator and consultant, where I’ve helped design strategies, policies, and training that challenge oppressive systems and encourage cultural humility and trauma-responsive care.

In mental health education, I’ve developed programs that prioritize peer support, de-carceral approaches, and community-led solutions.

I’ve also contributed to systemic change through roles on advisory boards and committees. These experiences have taught me the importance of grounding policy and initiatives in the material realities of marginalized communities and fighting for solutions that are bold, honest, and sustainable.

At the heart of everything I do is a belief in the power of education and collective action as tools for liberation. Whether I’m facilitating a workshop, organizing a grassroots project, or collaborating on policy, my goal is always to build strong, inclusive, and safe(r) spaces where people and communities can thrive.