January 2026 Newsletter

Shiraz Arts Festival (1967-1977)

Presentation by Dr. Mahasti Afshar (in Persian)

Presented by the Luminary Series:

Join us on a one-of-a-kind journey to the Shiraz Arts Festival (1967-1977), a presentation by Dr. Mahasti Afshar (in Persian).

Mahasti Afshar will walk us through the Shiraz Arts Festival, an international event that was held every summer from 1967-1977, and highlight the festival’s extraordinary programs in music, dance, drama, and film from Iran and around the world.

Master of Ceremonies: Shahrzad Ardalan

Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026

Time: 3:30–5:30 PM

Location: Beverly Hills Public Library Auditorium

444 N Rexford Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

A Milestone Worth Celebrating

We are proud to share that, to date, the Iranian American Women Foundation has awarded over $600,000 in scholarships!

This milestone reflects the collective commitment of our donors, leaders, and community members to advancing education and opportunity.

In Conversation with Googoosh

On December 7, 2025, guests gathered at the Renaissance Newport Beach Hotel for an engaging afternoon in conversation with the legendary Googoosh, joined by her co author Tara Dehlavi. Moderated by Shahrzad Ardalan, the live discussion explored the stories behind Googoosh’s newly published memoir, Googoosh: A Sinful Voice, offering guests rare insight into her life, artistry, and enduring cultural impact. As part of the experience, attendees received a hardcover copy of the book with a signed bookplate. The gathering served as a celebration of storytelling, legacy, and shared cultural history.

A heartfelt thank you to Googoosh, Tara Dehlavi, and Shahrzad Ardalan for sharing such a meaningful and inspiring conversation, and to all of our guests for joining us for this special afternoon. We are also grateful to our volunteers and partners whose support helped make this event such a memorable experience.

Photos courtesy of Art Frame Productions.

PariSima Hassani Spotlighted in the Orange County Business Journal

We are proud to congratulate PariSima Hassani, IAW Foundation Board of Directors member, Trustee, and Women of Influence honoree, on the recent recognition of her and her firm, Westgroup Designs.

Westgroup Designs was spotlighted in this week’s Orange County Business Journal, highlighting the firm’s strong commitment to community and the values that continue to shape its culture and approach to work. The feature captures the heart of the team and their passion, generosity, and dedication to supporting organizations that strengthen Orange County. This recognition is a testament to PariSima’s leadership and the people behind Westgroup Designs, whose shared commitment to meaningful connection and purposeful engagement makes this impact possible.

Mentorship to Internship Program

We invite you to make a difference by becoming a mentor in our Mentorship to Internship Program. This initiative connects experienced professionals with young Iranian Americans, fostering growth, guidance, and mutual learning. As a mentor, you’ll have the unique opportunity to share your expertise, help the next generation navigate their educational and career paths, and build meaningful connections within the community.

 Join us in empowering the future!

Stay tuned for more exciting events & updates!