In this conversation, Maryam Zar reflects on resilience as an act of continuity—how individuals and communities carry memory, identity, and care forward after profound disruption. Drawing from her leadership in post-wildfire recovery and her partnership in Art for Healing and the Legacy Family project among other initiatives, Maryam explores how healing is supported when survivors are seen as keepers of story, connection, and meaning.

She shares insights on the emotional toll of displacement, the importance of community-led recovery models, and the role of creative and practical structures in helping people feel grounded. The discussion highlights how resilience is often quiet and relational—rooted in showing up, creating safe spaces, and allowing grief and hope to exist side by side. Maryam offers a perspective on recovery that is focused on rebuilding structures and recovering community with a focus on meeting people where they are - even as that evolves.

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About Our Guest:

Maryam Zar is a longtime community leader, civic convener, and recovery advocate based in Pacific Palisades. She is a founder of the Palisades Recovery Coalition and plays a central role in guiding community-centered recovery efforts following wildfire-related displacement and loss. Her work focuses on restoring not only physical infrastructure, but also trust, continuity, and belonging—particularly for families navigating prolonged disruption.

Maryam's leadership emphasizes collaboration across residents, local institutions, mental health practitioners, designers, and policymakers, with a strong belief that recovery is both a logistical and emotional process. Through initiatives such as the Legacy Family project, Community Recovery Labs, and healing-centered convenings, she has helped create spaces where grief, resilience, and forward momentum can coexist. Her approach is grounded, inclusive, and informed by lived experience, with a commitment to ensuring that recovery efforts honor memory while supporting long-term well-being.