Hazar Ava: Vancouver’s Vocal Trio Bringing Iranian Women’s Voices to the World

Hazar Ava Wins Two Global Music Awards, Elevating Voices Across Borders
By Majid Mahichi
Skyrise Media Society

Atoosa Nezakati, a member of Vancouver’s Hazar Ava ensemble, is celebrating a major milestone for the group: winning two silver medals at the Global Music Awards.

Hazar Ava—an all-female vocal trio that has been active in Vancouver for nearly a decade—earned recognition in two categories: Best Female Vocalist and Best Trio Ensemble at the prestigious international competition.

The awards mark not only a significant achievement for the group but also a moment of pride for Vancouver’s Iranian community. With the Global Music Awards attracting top talent from around the world, this recognition represents an impressive accomplishment on the global stage.

Alongside Nezakati, the ensemble features Pegah Sherkat and Banafsheh Farahmand. Over the years, the trio has performed at numerous concerts and cultural events throughout the city, often collaborating with other local and international artists.

Their recent music video—a collaborative effort between artists in Vancouver and Iran—demonstrates Hazar Ava’s commitment to bridging cultures and uniting voices across borders. The project brought together musicians and visual artists from both countries, highlighting the transformative power of music in transcending geographical and political divides.

Nezakati’s musical roots run deep. She is the daughter of renowned Iranian singer Parviz Nezakati, whose legacy has played a formative role in her artistic development.

During the Mahsa movement, Hazar Ava used their platform to amplify the voices of Iranian women, standing in solidarity with the struggle for freedom and justice. From their base in Vancouver, they became a powerful artistic voice expressing the pain, resilience, and hopes of Iranian women through song.

As the only all-female Persian vocal trio of its kind in Vancouver, Hazar Ava members balance professional careers with their passion for music. Despite demanding schedules, they remain devoted to their craft and community.

Their mission is driven not by profit, but by a deep commitment to preserving and expanding Persian music and culture, sharing it with new audiences through performance, collaboration, and artistic expression.