Saba Akbari

Saba Akbari is a visionary leader and passionate advocate for mental health, women’s empowerment, and cultural enrichment through art. With a rich background in psychology, art therapy, and social activism, she has dedicated her career to fostering resilience, healing, and empowerment, particularly among women and marginalized communities in the Middle East and beyond.

Saba is the founder of the Persian Mental Health Alliance, a non-profit organization providing accessible mental health services and educational programs to Persian-speaking communities worldwide. She has spearheaded transformative initiatives such as the "Counselling as a Donation" campaign, offering pro bono mental health support to underserved populations in Toronto and abroad, and the "Family Support for Newcomers" project, helping immigrant families adapt and thrive in new environments.

As a global peace ambassador and the director of the Peace Film Festival, Saba has utilized the power of storytelling and art to build cross-cultural understanding and dialogue. Her efforts in curating impactful film programs and leading peacebuilding initiatives have amplified the voices of underrepresented communities, highlighting themes of unity and social harmony.

Saba’s work is deeply rooted in the belief that art and culture are powerful tools for transformation. Through her art therapy practice, she has empowered women to overcome trauma, rediscover their inner strength, and find a voice in patriarchal societies.

In the Middle East, Saba has worked extensively with refugee women from Palestine and Yemen, providing trauma-informed care and facilitating workshops on anger management and PTSD recovery. She has also collaborated with institutions in Oman and Iran to train art therapists and develop therapeutic programs for children with special needs.

Her artistic endeavors include exhibitions and creative projects that celebrate the beauty and resilience of Middle Eastern femininity, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s cultural heritage. Saba’s work embodies the intersection of art, psychology, and social justice, making her a force for positive change in the global community.

With a steadfast dedication to empowering women, building mental health awareness, and cultivating cultural connections, Saba Akbari continues to inspire and lead initiatives that transform lives and bridge divides through compassion, creativity, and action.