Golriz Ghahraman Parents: Meet Behrooz Ghahraman, Maryam Ghafoori

Golriz Ghahraman, the accomplished New Zealand Member of Parliament, author, and politician, carries with her a unique and resilient background, shaped by the experiences of her parents, Behrooz Ghahraman and Maryam Ghafoori.

Born in 1981 in Iran, Golriz spent her early years in Mashhad, the country’s second-largest city. Her father, Behrooz Ghahraman, an agricultural engineer, contributed to the Ministry of Agriculture, focusing on the research and development of plant-based alternative fuels.

Meanwhile, her mother, Maryam Ghafoori, studied as a child psychologist, displaying a commitment to education and human welfare. Interestingly, Maryam Ghafoori chose not to pursue a career in child psychology due to ethical reasons.

She was opposed to the requirement for psychologists to pledge allegiance to a particular religion, and as such, she refused to undergo the Islamic examinations necessary for her practice. Despite her academic qualifications, Maryam never worked as a child psychologist.

Golriz Ghahraman’s family background reflects a diverse mix of religious and cultural influences. Her father was Shia, while her mother, a Kurdish Sunni, practiced a more secular lifestyle. The family, however, did not actively adhere to religious practices, highlighting a commitment to tolerance and diversity within their home.

The turning point in Golriz’s life came in 1990, following the conclusion of the Iran–Iraq War. Seeking a better life, nine-year-old Golriz and her family embarked on a journey that would lead them to New Zealand.

Initially traveling to Malaysia for what seemed like a holiday, they eventually sought political asylum during a stopover in Auckland. New Zealand welcomed the Ghahraman family as refugees, providing a new home and a fresh start.

In Auckland, Golriz’s parents transitioned to new pursuits, setting up a restaurant and a gift shop. These ventures marked a departure from their earlier areas of expertise, showcasing their resilience and adaptability in a new country.

Golriz Ghahraman’s political journey in New Zealand has been influenced by this rich tapestry of experiences. As the first refugee to be elected to the New Zealand Parliament in 2017, she brings a unique perspective to her role.