Congratulations
2026 Spirit of Schlifer Award Winner
Shirin Ariff: A Journey of Resilience, Transformation, and Inspiration
Professional Background
Shirin Ariff, B.A. (Eng. Hons.), B. Ed., OCT, ICF-CAA, OLCM-L has dedicated over 22 years to the field of education. Her commitment to empowering others extends beyond the classroom. She has established herself as a 6-time international best-selling author and an international speaker. Shirin’s viral speech, “Love Conquers All,” has been viewed over 3 million times worldwide, demonstrating her powerful ability to connect and inspire on a global scale.
Coaching and Life Transformation
As an award-winning Life Transformation Coach, Shirin equips her clients with practical tools and distinctions that help them tap into their personal power. Her coaching philosophy centres on fostering authenticity, joy, freedom, and dignity in individuals while guiding them toward more fulfilling lives.
Personal Journey and Literary Contributions
As a mother of four, Shirin has navigated facial paralysis, survived cancer, and endured two dysfunctional and abusive marriages. These experiences form the foundation of her international best-selling memoir, “The Second Wife,” where she shares her heart-wrenching journey. She draws her wisdom from lived experiences and extensive training to serve and empower others, thereby earning her the affectionate nickname “Coach Yoda.”
Media Recognition and Storytelling
Shirin’s compelling story, “Beauty and the Beast,” was featured in the Dream Big docuseries by Ethnic Channel Group and showcased at the New York International Women’s Film Festival. It was also short-listed at the Toronto International Women’s Film Festival in 2021, highlighting her life.
Community Leadership and Initiatives
Beyond her personal achievements, Shirin serves her community as the Founder of 7 Arcs Coaching, where she inspires others through books and anthologies. Her recent best-seller anthology, “Cancer Heroes,” is a curated collection of stories that offer hope and transformation. Under her “Be Your Own North Star” brand, Shirin has designed and delivered workshops, as well as individual and group coaching programs, facilitating transformative learning experiences. Shirin is also the Founder of the proclaimed National Cancer Hero Day; an initiative focused on raising awareness and funds for cancer patients.
Your generosity and support of this campaign and the work we do at the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic means a lot to us.
Together we are committed to eliminating the conditions that place women and gender-diverse people at risk for violence, and with your support, we will succeed.
489 College St,
Toronto, ON M6G 1A5
(416) 323-9149
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Since its founding, the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic has assisted more than 150,000 survivors.

