Pooneh today advocates empowerment among women who have been victims of domestic abuse, empowering them to reclaim their power and inner strength.
The momentum and growth that a few professionals and driven individuals have inspired in their chosen niches, all on their own, is something that must be celebrated every day. Women, in particular, have questioned norms, pushed boundaries, fought for what is right and advocated for change, which has been truly inspirational. It is crucial to highlight the journeys of these change-makers and innovators, who went against the tides, fought all odds and still stood firm in their purpose to bring about a positive change in society through their meaningful work. One of the finest examples is Pooneh Michelle Tanaeim, a courageous, tenacious and spirited soul who turned her pain into power and inspired other women to do the same.
Domestic violence has been affecting millions of women worldwide. It has remained a grave issue of society that has affected women physically, mentally, emotionally and financially. While many suffer in silence, few find the strength to rise, question, speak out loud, and lead others toward healing. Pooneh Michelle Tanaeim has been a powerful voice and force to be reckoned with. Hailing from Tehran, Iran, she was raised in Great Neck, NY, in a loving yet traditional family emphasising marriage over independence. What followed was a life marked by betrayal, unimaginable struggle, challenges and deep trauma, but also one of strength, resilience, purpose and empowerment. Today, Pooneh is on a mission to empower women who are domestic violence survivors and help them find their voice, reclaim their freedom and build a new future.
Recalling her challenging journey, Pooneh says she was 26 when she married a man she thought was her soulmate. What unfolded was a 10-year marriage built on lies. Her husband, a master manipulator and con artist, was later revealed to be involved in embezzlement, fraud and worse. But the abuse didn’t stop even when the marriage ended. For the past 13 years, she has endured constant stalking, harassment and threats. She refused to give up despite losing millions of dollars and facing corrupt legal obstacles, including bribed attorneys. She now represents herself as Pro Se in the LA courts, fearlessly protecting her identity, finances, and future and has fought back with courage and authenticity.
Her path thus far has been no walk in the park. She faced innumerable challenges like emotional manipulation, financial theft and even identity fraud. She realised that the man she chose for herself as a husband was a sociopath and also a danger to society, currently on track to face justice in prison. She has reported him to both the FBI and LAPD and continues to fight through legal systems that often fail to protect women like her.
Pooneh Michelle Tanaeim believes in empowerment through storytelling, emphasising that by shedding light on the darkest parts of her past, she can illuminate a path of healing for other women around the world. Through her platform, she goes beyond awareness, building a movement. Her vision is clear – to create a safe space for victims of domestic violence to help them overcome, heal, grow and thrive. Her mission is deeply personal, where she wants to empower women who have been silenced for too long and want them to feel seen, heard and supported.
Today, Pooneh stands tall as a survivor and mother to three daughters. She has excelled as a speaker and a soon-to-be author of her memoir, which she says is a work in progress that will expose her life’s dark reality and truths and inspire countless women to reclaim their lives.
