Hush: We Have Something to Say is a powerful and timely TV interview series focused on gender-based violence (GBV). Produced for local communities in greater vancouver, the program brings attention to the hidden and often silenced realities of violence experienced by women, refugees, and survivors of political oppression.

Sherry Soltani – Local Journalism Initiative

This program is more than a conversation—it is a call to action. It urges policymakers, educators, community leaders, and everyday citizens to listen, learn, and work toward systemic change. Through courageous storytelling and civic engagement, Hush is helping to dismantle the silence and shame surrounding gender-based violence and paving the way for a more just and inclusive society.

Hosted by Sherry, a journalist with Skyrise Media, the program provides a platform for survivors and advocates to speak out, break the silence, and push for social awareness and justice.

In a recent episode, Sherry welcomed three notable guests:

Poran Poregbal, a psychotherapist and clinical supervisor who has worked extensively with survivors of violence across all genders, especially women. She discussed the deep emotional wounds caused by abuse and trauma, emphasizing that, “Violence is never cultural—it is a violation. Healing starts with naming what has been silenced.”

Mehran Azamifard, a women’s rights activist, shared her painful personal experiences of oppression under the Islamic Republic regime. She spoke about the long-lasting effects of political violence and the courage it takes to reclaim one’s voice. Mehran stressed, “What was taken from us was not just safety, but identity. Speaking out is how we take it back.”

Mahbobeh Mojtahed, an activist working with VAST BC to support refugees, recounted her own survival story and her journey from trauma to activism. She reflected on how her past shaped her commitment to supporting others, especially newcomers navigating trauma in a new country. In her words: “When I help others heal, I heal a part of myself. We must make Canada a place of real safety—not just shelter.”

Both Mehran and Mahbobeh came from harsh, oppressive backgrounds and experienced state violence during the Islamic Revolution in Iran. After immigrating to Canada, they turned their pain into purpose—working to support women and men who have experienced violence and trauma in their lives. These personal testimonies shed light on the systemic nature of gender-based violence, reminding viewers that GBV is not only a personal struggle but a public concern affecting the health and well-being of entire communities.

By bringing these stories to light, Hush: We Have Something to Say highlights that gender-based violence is not just a private issue, but a public crisis with far-reaching consequences. When society tolerates or remains silent about such violence, it undermines justice, equality, and the very fabric of democracy.

Sherry concluded the session with a heartfelt message, Thank you to our courageous guests for their honesty and strength. These conversations are not easy, but they are necessary. We invite our viewers from Coquitlam, North Shore, and beyond to continue this journey with us. Join us next week for part two of Hush: We Have Something to Say, where we continue to raise the voices that need to be heard."