What is your name and occupation?
My name is Parivash Rohani, and I am a retired ICU nurse. Currently, I am engaged as an advocate and community organizer, concentrating on human rights and issues, particularly those related to women.
What are you known for now, and what would you like to be known for in the future?
Most people know me as a connector, bridge builder, resource developer, community organizer, and activist. I am also known for my advocacy for women's rights and my work in the arts, particularly in sharing the stories of women who have faced injustice.. However, I would like to be remembered as someone who tried to create space for others to be their authentic selves. I want to be known as someone who made an effort to make a difference and worked to bring peace, unity, and hope to the forefront of every interaction and conversation. I strive to hold onto hope and avoid being confused, understanding that the most important work and change happen at the grassroots level, in the hands of well-intentioned and sincere individuals. These individuals may not be famous or sensational, but they are action-oriented and driven by a deep love for humanity as a whole.
What advice would you offer to someone new to Maine hoping to build a life here?
My first piece of advice is to take the initiative to make friends and connect. As new Mainers, we need these connections, and we are aware of our emotional needs. It's our responsibility to adopt an outward-looking mindset. The people of Maine have lived here for a long time and have established deep roots, while we are the newcomers, and it's up to us to grow our own roots by connecting with the local community. We should make an effort to learn the local language, respect the local culture, obey the law, and volunteer or serve the community that has welcomed us to this beautiful state. By taking advantage of educational opportunities and working to give back, we can contribute meaningfully to our new home. Embrace the sense of community and be open to building genuine relationships. Maine’s people are incredibly welcoming, and even though it might take time to adjust to the pace and the climate, the connections you build here will make it feel like home. Also, don’t be afraid to explore and get involved in local events and initiatives—there’s always something to learn.
Maine is known for its work ethic. Do you think that living in such a rural state has shaped the way you approach your career and your goals?
My father worked in the Iranian army as an electrician, so we were stationed in some of the most rural areas. We had to learn quickly how to become self-sufficient, especially because we were Baha'is, which added another layer of persecution. This experience made us resilient, flexible, adaptable, and hardworking. Leaving Iran for India in search of safety, our lifestyle continued, but it became even harder. Not knowing the language, having no family or friends for support, and being completely on our own was a challenge. Then, coming to America as refugees was probably the best part of my life. It felt like a honeymoon phase—like a kid in a candy store, full of excitement and new possibilities. These experiences remind me that success comes from dedication and patience. You can’t rush the process; it’s all about taking steady, thoughtful steps toward your goals.
Maine is full of strong, independent women—how do you feel connected to the women around you here, whether it’s in your community or your workplace?
I feel a deep connection to the women around me in Maine. There’s a shared strength and resilience that we all carry, and it’s inspiring to see how many women are supporting each other. Whether it's through our professional networks or community groups, the bonds formed are strong and empowering. I’ve learned so much from the women in my life here, and I am proud to be a part of that circle. My recent international art campaign, #OurStoryIsOne, came together because of the incredible and generous women in our community, especially the artists who said yes and chose to stand shoulder to shoulder with women across the globe. They’ve shown that injustice to one is a threat to justice for all. I feel incredibly lucky and honored to be among the women in Maine. They have taught me what caring, generosity, support, and being allies truly mean. Their efforts overshadow any barriers that are man-made.
If there’s one thing you could change or improve for women in the workforce in Maine, what would it be, and why?
If I could change one thing, it would be to create more opportunities for women in leadership roles across all industries. While Maine is known for its close-knit communities, there is still a gap when it comes to women in decision-making positions. By encouraging more women to step into leadership, we can build a more equitable and innovative workforce.
I also dream of a day when this Baha'i quote becomes a reality: "The world of humanity has two wings—one is women and the other is men. Not until both wings are equally developed can the bird fly. Should one wing remain weak, flight is impossible." While I feel we are still far from achieving this, I believe we can get there if we are intentional and recognize that we are not in two separate camps. We are in the same camp; one of us, without the other, is handicapped. True respect for both genders comes when we see each other as equals—because, in truth, we are.
What advice would you give to young women growing up here in Maine who are dreaming of building careers, perhaps in industries where women are underrepresented?
My advice would be to be bold, stay persistent, and never underestimate your abilities. Don’t let anyone tell you that a certain field or career is off-limits because of your gender. Seek out mentors who can guide you and help you navigate those challenges, and remember that your unique perspective is valuable. Trust yourself and take the leap. The effort to overcome the history of inequality requires the full participation of every man, woman, youth, and child. Also to remember " The world in the past has been ruled by force, and man has dominated over women by reason of his more forceful and aggressive qualities both of body and mind. But the balance is already shifting; force is losing its dominance, and mental alertness, intuition, and the spiritual qualities of love and service, in which women are strong, are gaining ascendancy. Hence the new age will be an age less masculine and more permeated with the feminine ideals . . . an age in which the masculine and feminine elements of civilization will be more evenly balanced.”
Maine is a place of incredible beauty but also challenging winters. How do you stay motivated during the tough months—when the days are short, and the weather is harsh?
I’m no stranger to winter and snow. Believe it or not, I come from the northeast of Iran, where the climate is very similar to Maine's, so I’m quite accustomed to it. During the winter, we make an effort to invite friends over more regularly, as in the summer everyone is busy with a million activities. Winter provides the perfect opportunity to connect and take advantage of the extra free time our friends have. Maine's winters can be tough, but they also have their own kind of beauty. To stay motivated during those long, cold months, I focus on embracing the season rather than fighting against it. I make the most of the shorter days by creating a cozy, welcoming space at home and spending quality time with loved ones. The community events and gatherings in Maine, even in winter, also help keep me connected and motivated.
With so much focus on family and community in Maine, how do you manage the expectations that come with being a working woman in a small town or rural area?
Balancing family, community, and work in a small town or rural area can certainly be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. In Maine, the sense of community is strong, and there’s a lot of support among neighbors and local organizations. That support helps ease the pressure of managing multiple responsibilities. In a smaller setting, relationships are often closer-knit, so people tend to understand when personal priorities come first. Being adaptable and flexible is key. I try to stay organized, planning ahead when possible. Ultimately, it's about finding a balance that works for me, while staying true to my commitments and values.
Looking back on your career, what are you most proud of? What’s the legacy you hope to leave for the next generation of women in Maine?
I am very proud to have returned to work during the COVID-19 pandemic, after my retirement, and joined the task force to serve on the front lines of the project. I worked at several mass vaccination clinics in Scarborough, Westbrook, Auburn Mall, and Lewiston, which were organized by my son for St. Mary's Hospital. I also trained non-profit organizations on how to conduct PCR and rapid tests to help prevent community spread. Lastly, I worked at the Fairfield Hotel in Scarborough, providing support for emergency and quarantine shelter services.
Looking back, I am also proud of the work I’ve done to bring attention to women’s stories and struggles, particularly those who have been marginalized. The legacy I hope to leave is one of empowerment, where women are given the tools and opportunities to lead, create, and advocate for themselves. I want future generations of women in Maine to feel supported, inspired, and confident in pursuing their dreams without limitations.
Parivash’s commitment to human rights extends beyond local efforts to global initiatives that highlight education, gender equality, and justice. Through documentary screenings, public presentations, and art campaigns, she has worked to amplify the voices of the marginalized.
Below, she shares key projects she has been involved in, each dedicated to raising awareness and advocating for fundamental rights.