Zahraa Hawili

Public Policy | master's degree | Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences

Tell us a little about yourself, including what inspires you to learn and continue in your chosen field

As a second-generation immigrant, my parents from a young age instilled in us (my siblings and I) the importance of education, and that is where my love for education and learning really stems from. Learning comes in many shapes and forms, and I am a huge proponent of being a learner for life. It is privilege in many forms to be able to be a student, and I am grateful for it. As a mother of two young boys, I hope to instill the love and appreciation for learning and having a growth mindset for them as well.

Why did you choose to come to SFU?

Honestly, the choice was based on practicality as I wanted my university to be close proximity to home. I was interested in the Health Sciences program (BA) and ended up with a double major and here I am today completing my master’s at SFU as well.

How would you describe your research or your program to a family member?

My research is interested in examining the factors that are contributing to the "ultra-low" fertility we currently have in Canada. Data shows that women are having less children than they desire – this is referred to as the “fertility gap”. My research aims to answer the following question: What are the factors (employment, unpaid work, culture etc.) that are contributing to the fertility gap? From a policy perspective, what then are the policies that can be modified or introduced that will be more inclusive and allow women to better align their fertility intentions with their lived realities?

What three (3) keywords would you use to describe your research?

Fertility gap, employment, policy

How have your courses, RA-ships, TA-ships, or non-academic school experiences contributed to your academic and/or professional development?

My coursework in economics and public policy analysis has provided both the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to pursue a career in policy analysis. Through hands-on training in tools such as RStudio and SPSS, I have developed the ability to analyze data, interpret findings, and translate evidence into policy-relevant insights. This learning was further strengthened through my involvement with the British Columbia Priorities Project, where as a team, we worked in collaboration with the Provincial Health Services Authority to apply data-driven approaches to real-world policy challenges. These skills are directly reflected in my own research, where I draw on both quantitative methods and policy frameworks learned in the classroom.

As a full-time employee and mother, I was not able to take on Teaching Assistant or Research Assistant roles. However, I have sought other opportunities to strengthen my academic and professional development. Most recently, I participated in the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, where I was selected as a winner within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and will be advancing to the university-wide competition. This experience has strengthened my ability to present and communicate my research in a clear, and concise matter to a wider audience, and I look forward to the upcoming university-wide competition and engaging with other students across the disciplines.

What have been the most valuable lessons you've learned along your graduate student journey (or in becoming a graduate student)?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned as a graduate student in public policy is the importance of staying attuned to the issues shaping our world. Policy training teaches us to anticipate emerging challenges, analyze systems, and think critically about solutions. While my academic interests are centered on women’s well-being, health, and family policy, my learning has extended beyond any single topic.

In recent years, I have come to better understand the importance of identifying and grounding myself in my own values. Being informed is essential, but so is being willing to speak, question, and reflect on what is just and unjust. At a time when we continue to witness profound global injustices, marked by violence, displacement, and genocide, I have learned that remaining silent or detached is not neutral. As researchers and future policymakers, our work does not exist in isolation; it is shaped by the social and political realities around us.

This journey has taught me that meaningful policy work requires not only technical skill, but also empathy, awareness, and a strong sense of responsibility. I hope to contribute to a future where policy is not only evidence-based, but also guided by a commitment to dignity, equity, and the protection of human life.

Additional Links

• LinkedIn