Ainaz Fazlfarhadi

Ainaz Fazlfarhadi is a designer, researcher, and TEDx organizer with interests in sustainability, community engagement, interdisciplinary design, and storytelling. She holds a Master of Architecture degree and is currently pursuing her MFA in Design at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

I’m passionate about the intersection of design, community, culture, and sustainability. With a background in architecture and interdisciplinary design, I am interested in how spaces, systems, and creative practices influence people’s everyday experiences and social connections. I am especially passionate about ecofeminist perspectives, storytelling, community engagement, and using design as a tool for dialogue, reflection, and positive social impact. I also enjoy creating opportunities for collaboration and public engagement through events, research, and creative work. I believe meaningful conversations and shared experiences can inspire new perspectives and help build stronger and more connected communities.

Architectural Visualization, Architecture and Spatial Design, Cultural and Environmental Design, Design Research, Ecofeminism, Event Marketing and Branding, Interdisciplinary Design, Public Engagement and Community Outreach, Research and Creative Practice, Sustainability and Community-Centered Design, Visual Communication and Storytelling

My TEDx journey started through my interest in creativity, community, and meaningful conversations. I joined TEDxSIUC as part of the marketing team and later became the Marketing Team Manager, where I helped with branding, promotion, audience engagement, and event communication. Being part of TEDx allowed me to work with people from different backgrounds while helping create a platform for sharing ideas, experiences, and stories that can inspire others. As someone with a background in architecture and design, I value interdisciplinary thinking and the power of storytelling to connect communities. TEDx became a space where many of my interests — creativity, public engagement, collaboration, and social impact — naturally came together.

People don’t know I’m actually a very good cook and love baking. I enjoy experimenting with different recipes and creating meals and desserts that bring people together.