Episode 21: From Iran to Advocacy: Ayda’s Journey Through Law and Juvenile Justice
What Youth and Families Wish Attorneys Knew in Juvenile Court
In this inspiring episode of What I Know Now, a podcast by The Delta Project, hosts Cole Williams and Bilal sit down with Ayda Rezaian Nojani, an attorney with deep expertise in innocence work and public defense. Together, they dive into life inside the juvenile justice system and what real change looks like for youth—and for those who represent them.
Ayda, who immigrated from Iran to Canada and then moved to the U.S. for law school, shares her powerful personal and professional journey. She talks about being the first lawyer in her family, the impact of her immigrant background, and how her family's values shaped her passion for advocacy and justice.
Key episode highlights include:
The Real Needs of Clients: Ayda reveals the top three things clients wish from their attorneys: listening, inclusion in the process, and understanding what's going on.
Family Roots and Resilience: Ayda connects her drive and worldview to her strong-willed family, especially her father's and mother's support in nurturing her outspoken personality.
Changing Perspective: She discusses the stark differences between the Canadian and U.S. justice systems, how theory shapes practice, and the importance of knowing your roots.
From Anger to Action: The conversation explores how anger and frustration with the system can be transformed into positive change, both for practitioners and those impacted by the justice system.
The Importance of Labels: Ayda and the hosts delve into how labeling shapes outcomes for youth in the system—and the power of reframing those labels in the pursuit of true rehabilitation.
Throughout the episode, Ayda emphasizes the importance of building trusting, listening relationships with clients, especially young people and families navigating an often confusing and intimidating system. She also discusses what it means to be searching for her next "professional crush," and how service, empathy, and authentic connection drive her career choices.
If you're interested in juvenile justice reform, the lived experience of immigrants in law, or the transformative role of empathy and advocacy, this episode is a must-listen.
