A Follow-Up with Justice Studies Alum, Daria Rayegan-Tafreshi
In June 2018, we shared an article about an inspiring graduate from the Justice Studies program at the University of Guelph-Humber. Now, several years later, we reconnected with her to see how her career has evolved and what she's learned along the way.
Daria Rayegan-Tafreshi graduated from Guelph-Humber’s Justice Studies program in 2018. She was drawn to GH because of the work placement opportunities in the court system, which she credits as a significant part of her success due to the hands-on experience it provided.
"Walking through the courtrooms, I said, I have to work here. And I ended up doing it," she recalls.
Her time at GH was transformative, introducing her to the Ontario Court of Justice and allowing her to work in schools as a student teacher. Reflecting on her career journey since graduation, Daria highlights the significance of helping people in the community.
"In all my roles, I was looking for a role where I could truly help people hands-on," she said.
Working in the Ontario Court of Justice, Daria gained invaluable experience with evidence and disclosure and was involved in the domestic and impaired units. She felt most fulfilled when actively listening to victims and witnesses of crime.
"This is where I thrive. People really want to be heard and listened to.”
In her current role on the Unclaimed Bodies Team at the Office of the Chief Coroner, Daria is responsible for finding the families of unclaimed individuals. Her work often involves deep investigations and collaboration with international organizations like Interpol.
"I don’t consider them unclaimed – for me they’re a person. I need to find out who they are and help them to the best of my abilities," she explained.
Despite the demanding and emotionally taxing nature of the role, she finds it rewarding. "This is the job where I have helped the most people," she said.
Her dedication to helping others extends beyond her primary duties. She has been nominated as a Wellness Lead and Peer Supporter in her organization due to her commitment to mental health and wellness.
Daria’s career aspirations have broadened significantly since her time at GH.
"For me, I want to be a person with the most impact, helping the most individuals with education, knowledge, and bettering their self-wellness base,” she explained.
While she remains interested in teaching, her focus has shifted towards educating and leading teams in various sectors, including hospitals, social services, and police services. She plans to complete a Masters of Education to further these goals.
"Whatever I’ve learned, I want to give it back," she said.
Daria also has a message for prospective or current students at Guelph-Humber: "Believe in yourself and in your capabilities, and your first option is not your last option. You are able to explore so many jobs in Canada and internationally,” she said, emphasizing the unique benefits of GH's smaller classrooms that foster engagement with professors.
Her advice is clear: "You can do whatever you set your mind to."
Daria’s journey from a Justice Studies graduate to a key figure in the Office of the Chief Coroner showcases the profound impact of caring for the community and constantly striving to help others. She continues to inspire and lead by example, advocating for open communication, mental wellness, and the empowerment of women in the workplace.