Shideh Kiafar | Dovida Wicklow

Shideh Kiafar has called Ireland home for nearly two decades. Here she tells us about her native Iran and how her culture – a tapestry woven with threads of poetry, warmth, and a profound respect for our elders – has deeply shaped who she is and her approach to care.

“In Iranian culture, care is not just an action; it is a sacred duty and a cornerstone of family life.”

How is care valued in Iran?

In Iranian culture, care is not just an action; it is a sacred duty and a cornerstone of family life. We are taught from a young age that the elderly are the pillars of our family, treasured for their wisdom and life experience. Honouring and caring for them, often within the family home, is considered a blessing and a natural expression of love and respect, which is transferred from one generation to the next. It brings me great joy to see how these same values are so warmly cherished here in Irish culture too.

What aspects of your culture do you bring to your role?

I strive to offer more than just practical care; I bring a spirit of heartfelt hospitality. For me, it’s about creating a warm, respectful atmosphere where our clients feel truly seen and valued, not just attended to. Patience, active listening, and a gentle attitude are the gifts my culture has given me to share.

“Powerful is the one who is wise; through knowledge, the heart of an elder is young.”

Can you share a story or memory from an important event in your culture or life?

An important event that captures this spirit is Nowruz, the Iranian New Year, which begins on the spring equinox. It’s a celebration of renewal. For 13 days, families gather, and a central tradition is visiting older relatives. We pay our respects, seeking their blessings for the year ahead. The youngest members often kiss the hands of the eldest as a sign of reverence. It’s a beautiful, living reminder of the chain of life and the honour we bestow upon our elders, a value I carry with me in all I do at work. This belief is captured in the words of our epic poet, Ferdowsi:

‘Powerful is the one who is wise; through knowledge, the heart of an elder is young.’

To me, this means my role is not just to care for, but to honour the vibrant spirit and profound wisdom within every person I have the privilege to support.