Hana Assafiri

Hana Assafiri is a Melbourne-based social activist, feminist, and owner of the popular Moroccan Soup Bar restaurant. Through the Moroccan Soup Bar, Hana provides employment for marginalised women in her community and hosts important initiatives like Speed Date a Muslim and Conversation Salons. She has been recognised on many occasions for her entrepreneurial ingenuity, innovation and voracious spirit for social justice.

In 2015, Hana received TimeOut’s Legend Award, and in the same year, renowned artist Ai Weiwei included her in his collection of local social activists in the NGV. She was inducted to the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2017 for being a leading agent of social change and women’s empowerment, and in 2019 was awarded an Order of Australia Medal OAM.

Hana’s activism forefronts women’s issues, racism, and the need for pluralism and
intersectionality for society to progress. She is a mentor and role model for women
everywhere, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds.