When asked to name someone who has been a constant pillar of strength in her life, Irshad Manji takes a considerable time to contemplate. When her answer finally arrives, it reveals a striking side to a strong woman who, over the past decade, has attracted a deluge of admirers and adversaries. ‘I would say my mother is one of them. Even when she disagreed with me when I was a child, she let me explore and discover for myself. What a gift that has been.’ After a brief pause, her voice sounds more reflective as she continues.