Farshid

Farshid is a man of many talents and interests. He holds a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation in Tehran, Iran, has co-authored four nursing books in his native tongue of Farsi, and is currently working to obtain his nursing license here in Arizona.

He also has a deep love of music. Inspired by his brother, Farshid started learning the Iranian violin around the age of fifteen. Playing the violin is a relaxing and creative space for him; he loves playing what comes to his mind rather than just notes on the page. Although the same instrument, the Iranian violin can be tuned in 8 different ways and the music includes "beauty" notes.

Despite having a deep love of his culture, Farshid fled Iran in 2021 after converting from Islam to Christianity because his life was at risk. He now calls Tempe home and enjoys openly practicing his faith with the University Presbyterian Church.

Earlier this year, he and his wife won asylum with the support of the Phoenix Legal Action Network.