Our Mission
Peyvand provides opportunities in arts, education, and leadership for youth from immigrant and refugee communities whose cultures are underrepresented, particularly Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) youth. Through culturally responsive programming, family and community engagement, and bringing their cultures into public spaces, we strengthen identity, voice, belonging, and well-being while building appreciation and connections across communities.
Peyvand’s History
2011 | Our Origins
Founded as an advisory board supporting the University of Washington's Persian and Iranian Studies Program, Peyvand promoted Persian and Iranian arts, culture, and scholarship while building connections with the broader community.
2021 | A New Chapter
Peyvand incorporated as a charitable nonprofit and expanded its mission to celebrate the arts and cultures of Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA, with a particular focus on empowering youth navigating multiple cultures through arts, culture, and community engagement.