Rana Telfah, a Ph.D. graduate in rural studies from the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph, brings a unique perspective to her research. Her dissertation delves into the lives of Syrian families who settled in different-sized communities in Southwestern Ontario. Using a feminist lens, she uncovers the hidden realities of these families’ lives, particularly the women’s experiences. Her research sheds light on crucial aspects such as housing, employment, health, and education that significantly impact their early settlement. Rana’s academic journey includes a Master of Science in Planning—Rural Planning and Development from the University of Guelph in 2016.

Rana Telfah’s research is dedicated to improving women’s lives and raising awareness about the challenges that affect newcomer refugees during early settlement. Moreover, it aims to enhance the capacity of rural communities to attract and retain newcomers, thereby making them more welcoming communities.  Rana’s personal experience, having moved with her family to Canada in 2012 after working in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Jordan, adds depth and empathy to her work.

Select Publications:

Telfah, R. (2023). “The Early Settlement Experiences of Syrian Families in Southwestern Ontario.” Doctor Dissertation, University of Guelph. https://atrium.lib.uoguelph.ca/items/1ff2752f-a917-41e5-ae9b-5e1f521ca2da

Telfah, R. (2019). “Bringing gender into the analysis of Syrian refugee settlement and
integrating into rural Ontario.” Available at: http://rplc-capr.ca/policy-brief-bringing-
gender-into-the-analysis-of-syrian-refugee-settlement-and-integration-in-rural-ontario/

Caldwell, W., Crane, K., Telfah, R. (2018). “Building welcoming communities: A case study on newcomer attraction and retention from Huron County.” Municipal World, ISSN 0027-3589, pp. 19–20