Jay Davani
Womxn @ Work 2024

“Asking questions without immediate answers has been pivotal for me. It revealed my purpose and led me to a like-minded community. By promoting open dialogue on tough issues like mortality, I aim to build a more compassionate society that supports its members through life’s most difficult challenges. Paradoxically, engaging in discussions about our mortality enhances a sense of vitality and awareness.

As womxn, we excel at holding space and fostering supportive environments for discussing tough topics. Open discussions, especially on subjects like death, are vital for sharing experiences, breaking stigmas and promoting understanding. These conversations encourage personal growth, reflection and empathy. They provide comfort during times of grief as we navigate life’s complexities together.

I want to be known as a trailblazer who leads with genuine authenticity, a person who is a voice for the voiceless.”

While also managing creative projects at RISD, Jay Davani (she/her) pioneers as a death advocate and entrepreneur. With expertise in photography, events, design, branding and advocacy, she embodies innovation and forward-thinking for challenging societal taboos.

Davani holds a bachelor of arts from Emory University, and certifications in graphic design and photography from RISD, and in digital strategy from the Providence College School of Business. She has been selected for prestigious international programs like Ayatana's Death School and the Santa Rosa Death Residency for Artists.

As a seasoned Death Cafés facilitator in both the US and Canada, Davani sparks meaningful conversations on death and dying with high ethical standards. Her speaking engagements include talks at the RISD Museum, North Burial Ground, and Biophillum’s Death Club, where she explores Persian death rituals through her photography, reflecting her passion for giving a voice for the voiceless.

Davani was born in Tehran, Iran, and currently resides in Providence, RI.