Benazir Tom Erdimi

Research Interests: Intersection of Traditional Mediation and Legal Systems in Chad, Indigenous Conflict Resolution Techniques, Human Rights Violations, Prisoner Rights, Black and Indigenous Community Rights, Social Justice, African Studies.

Originally from Chad, Benazir Tom Erdimi (she/her) is deeply committed to advancing equity and justice. Benazir’s research explores the intersection between traditional mediation techniques in Chad and the application of the legal system, with a particular focus on developing indigenous methods for conflict resolution. Growing up in a family affected by political repression, Benazir was shaped by her father’s wrongful imprisonment, which instilled in her a powerful drive to advocate for marginalized communities and combat human rights abuses.

As the founder of a non-profit called The People of Tomorrow, Benazir works to empower BIPOC youth to challenge stereotypes and build positive representation. She also specializes in event planning and coordination for Black-focused initiatives. Notably, she has organized large-scale events such as Black History Month galas for the University of Ottawa, drawing 300-500 attendees, including distinguished guests like Terrence Floyd, the Honorable Michaëlle Jean, Wes Hall, and others. These events aim to strengthen community ties and celebrate Black excellence.

Her advocacy extends to public speaking at rallies and protests to denounce human rights violations, and she frequently speaks to high school students about career paths and pursuing their goals. Her experience with the Michaëlle Jean Foundation, the Ottawa Black Diaspora Coalition, the Mind trust Leadership Program, and the Changemaker Hub has provided her with practical skills in community-driven development, anti-racism, and public engagement.

Research 

Benazir’s research examines the intersection and divergence between traditional mediation techniques and the formal legal system in Chad, with a particular focus on the Zaghawa community in Ennedi West. These indigenous conflict resolution practices within the Zaghawa community offer distinct approaches that may align with or diverge from formal legal frameworks, often reflecting values and social structures that differ from state-imposed systems. Her work aims to understand how these techniques intersect with or contrast the legal system, exploring the potential for integrating traditional methods that respect cultural heritage while addressing human rights violations. Through this research, Benazir seeks to contribute to culturally informed models of justice that enhance accessibility and effectiveness within the community.

Benazir chose Carleton’s MA in HRSJ because it aligns with her vision of fostering social impact through education, advocacy, and sustainable community change