SAMAVESA means "inclusion" in Sanskrit, an ancient Indian language.
As a bi+ non-binary person with Indian heritage, Mx Misty Farquhar OAM is passionate about bringing depth to this concept. They draw on academic, professional, and lived experiences to deliver work that reflects justice, authenticity, connection, and kindness.
Misty is the CEO of Rainbow Futures WA and a lecturer at the award-winning Curtin Centre for Human Rights Education. They also provide consultancy on issues of diversity, sexuality, and gender through the Social Change Institute. Misty was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the LGBTIQA+ community in 2021.
Misty’s PhD research explores how people living outside binary ideas of sexuality / gender understand identity, experience oppression, and engage in resistance in Australia. They have authored articles in academic and mainstream publications, and presented as an invited speaker at events around Australia. They also hold a Master of Human Rights and a Bachelor of Psychology.
Prior to commencing their PhD, Misty spent over ten years in community and organisational development leadership positions across sectors.