Afrida Faiza

My name is Afrida Faiza, and I am currently completing my Master’s in Sociocultural Anthropology at the University of Calgary, with an expected graduation date of August 2025. I also hold a Master’s in Development Studies, which complements my interdisciplinary approach to understanding social issues through both academic theory and grounded fieldwork.

My academic journey has been shaped by a deep interest in urban inequality, migration, and lived experiences in marginalized spaces. Over the past few years, I have conducted extensive ethnographic research in the slums of Bangladesh, where I engaged with residents, local organizations, and urban planners to better understand how people navigate structural challenges in rapidly transforming cities. My work is informed by a commitment to decolonial and participatory methodologies, and I strive to center the voices and agency of the communities I study.

Alongside my academic research, I bring over two years of experience in research roles based in Bangladesh, where I collaborated on projects related to poverty, informal labor, and education access. These experiences have not only sharpened my analytical and qualitative research skills, but have also given me insight into policy implementation and on-the-ground realities.

In Canada, I’ve had the opportunity to serve as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for two years, supporting courses in anthropology, development, and qualitative research methods. Teaching has been an immensely rewarding part of my graduate experience, allowing me to engage with students, support their academic growth, and develop skills in curriculum planning, communication, and mentorship.

Currently, I am also exploring creative ways to make academic research more accessible and community-centered. I’m leading a podcast project with a team of peers, where we plan to feature lived stories, expert voices, and student reflections on pressing social issues from a global and local lens. I believe in the power of storytelling to build empathy and foster critical dialogue beyond the walls of academia.

As I approach graduation, I am looking for research, teaching, or community-based opportunities in Calgary where I can apply my skills in qualitative research, writing, and public engagement. I am particularly drawn to interdisciplinary roles that involve collaboration, equity work, and meaningful social impact.