Farzana Doctor

Dayne Ogilvie Prize winner Farzana Doctor

Farzana Doctor is a Canadian author, social worker, and activist known for her contributions to literature and the LGBTQ+ community. Her work often explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of cultural and sexual identity. Doctor has been recognized for her unique voice and has received several accolades for her novels.

Early Life and Education

Farzana Doctor was born in Zambia to Indian parents and moved to Canada at a young age. Growing up in a diasporic Indian community in Toronto, Doctor's experiences have significantly influenced her writing and activism. She pursued higher education in social work, which has informed her approach to storytelling, emphasizing empathy, social justice, and the exploration of human relationships.

Career

Literature

Doctor's literary career began with the publication of her first novel, Stealing Nasreen, which garnered attention for its insightful portrayal of the lives of Canadian immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community. She has since published several more novels, including Six Metres of Pavement, which won the 2012 Lambda Literary Award for Lesbian Fiction and was praised for its sensitive exploration of loss, redemption, and community.

Her subsequent works, such as All Inclusive, a novel that explores themes of bisexuality, spirituality, and the complexities of family and love, and Seven, which delves into the controversial topic of female genital mutilation within the Dawoodi Bohra community, have continued to push boundaries and spark important conversations about cultural practices, gender, and sexuality.

Activism

Beyond her writing, Doctor is an active member of the LGBTQ+ community and engages in various forms of social activism. She has been vocal about issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and the fight against female genital mutilation. Her activism is not only reflected in her literary works but also in her public speaking and participation in community organizations.

Awards and Recognition

Farzana Doctor has received numerous awards and nominations for her contributions to literature and the LGBTQ+ community. Her novel Six Metres of Pavement was not only a Lambda Literary Award winner but also received the Toronto Book Award. Doctor's work has been recognized for its profound impact on diverse audiences, offering both a mirror and a window into the lives of those often marginalized in society.

Bibliography

• Stealing Nasreen (2007)
• Six Metres of Pavement (2011)
• All Inclusive (2015)
• Seven (2020)

Personal Life

Farzana Doctor currently resides in Toronto, Canada, where she continues to write, engage in social work, and advocate for social justice issues. Her personal and professional life reflects a deep commitment to exploring and addressing the complexities of human experience and promoting a more inclusive and empathetic society.