Sharafi’s passion for public health began at an early age. Born in Iran during the eight-year long Iran-Iraq War, she witnessed the quieter consequences of war firsthand, including undernutrition among vulnerable populations. That experience inspired her to study nutrition, become a registered dietician and earn a PhD in nutritional sciences.
Fast forward to today, Sharafi uses an elevator analogy to describe her approach to leadership. “You are in an elevator. You keep the door open. You help women get in. But what’s better is asking them which floor you want to go [to],” she said.
Rather than choosing the destination for them, Sharafi said leaders should ask women about their aspirations, goals and passions, then tap their resources, access and knowledge to help them get there.
She also drew a distinction between mentorship and sponsorship.
“A mentor is someone who guides you, shows you the way,” she said. “But a sponsor is someone that uses their influence to and advocates for you — even if you’re not in the same room.”
That advocacy can mean telling others that a woman is ready for a role, should lead a project or be included in an important meeting.
Sharafi also noted that effective leadership sometimes means stepping aside and letting another woman “take charge, give the presentation, take the spotlight.”
Ultimately, she said success isn’t about seeing one woman of color at the top. It’s about having women and women of color “at every floor,” making decisions, leading teams and shaping science — while holding the elevator door open for those behind them.
