Amira Elghawaby
Amira Elghawaby is an Egyptian-born Canadian journalist, communications professional, and human rights advocate.
Amira Elghawaby is an Egyptian-born Canadian journalist, communications professional, and human rights advocate. She served as Canada’s first Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia from 2023 to 2026. Her work has focused on anti-Muslim hate, human rights, media representation, and inclusion.
Early life and education
Available sources describe Elghawaby as Egyptian-born and Canadian. She earned a combined honours degree in journalism and law from Carleton University.
Career in journalism and advocacy
Elghawaby worked as a journalist and communications professional, with experience in media, labour, and Muslim civil-rights advocacy. Sources also describe her involvement with organizations focused on anti-hate and inclusion.
Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau appointed Elghawaby in January 2023 as Canada’s first Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia. In that role, she advised the federal government on measures related to Islamophobia, anti-Muslim hate, discrimination, and community safety.
Later developments
The office was abolished by the Carney government in February 2026 and replaced by a broader advisory body focused on rights, equality, and inclusion.
Key facts
- Amira Elghawaby is an Egyptian-born Canadian journalist and human rights activist.
- In January 2023, she was appointed Canada’s first Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia.
- Her mandate included advising the federal government on policies and measures to address anti-Muslim hate.
- The office was abolished in February 2026 and replaced by a new Advisory Council on Rights, Equality and Inclusion.
- She studied journalism and law at Carleton University.
Elghawaby’s profile is closely tied to Canadian public policy and debates over Islamophobia, anti-racism, and religious inclusion. Her appointment was a notable first for the federal government, making her a relevant figure in contemporary Canadian politics and human-rights advocacy.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Amira Elghawaby?
When was she appointed to the federal role?
What did the role involve?
What is her educational background?
Was the office permanent?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amira_ElghawabySupports: Biographical overview, appointment as Canada’s first Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia, education, and office abolition in 2026.
- Georgetown University Bridge Initiative — https://bridge.georgetown.edu/video/from-historic-first-to-whats-next-amira-elghawaby-on-combating-islamophobia-in-canada/Supports: Role description, tenure as Special Representative, and policy focus on Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hate.
- ExpertFile — https://expertfile.com/experts/amira.elghawaby/amira--elghawabySupports: Career history, Carleton University education, and journalism/communications background.
- Anadolu Agency — https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/canada-names-first-special-representative-to-combat-islamophobia/2798601Supports: Appointment in January 2023 and mandate to address Islamophobia and related discrimination.