World Zarathushti Chamber Of Commerce

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MSMF (Minoo Shroff Memorial Fund)

OPPORTUNITIES FOR STARTUPS AND YOUNG ENTREPRENUERS

The World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) was established in USA in December 2000. One of its prime objectives was to kindle and promote entrepreneurship. We know of the legacy the earlier generations of Parsi entrepreneurs have left behind. They, with limited resources, started businesses, which today are prominently known in India and around the world.

Entrepreneurs create jobs. Jobs provide people with livelihood, which makes people feel emotionally secure. Hence, developing entrepreneurship is of significant value to our Community.

Most often a business idea comes to mind when one is working for a corporate or a company. That is when one has the opportunity to learn what customers need, beyond what is provided by the existing products and services.

A business is defined as a process that converts knowledge into economic values. Knowledge is the ability to apply information to specific work and performance. For business success, knowledge must be meaningful to the customer, in terms of satisfaction and value.

One of the challenges for a startup is to make a viable Business Plan. It is important that the business idea is unique, in the sense that it is different or new, that will get a foothold in the market and benefit the customer or society.

Every business needs to define its Vision and Mission:

  • A Vision statement is a perceived unique characteristic and a broad objective to which the organisation is committed to sustain the growth of the enterprise over the long term.
  • A Mission statement is a set of commitments that best describes what the organisation will do to ensure growth and profitability of the enterprise. It also states the commitment to stakeholders, to the environment, to the laws and regulations that apply to the business.

It is very important for a startup to understand the difference between a Natural leader and a Management leader. A Natural leader tends to put his personal interest above that of the group as a whole. His outlook and orientation are centric. Typically, he sees other members of the team as working for him, rather than with him. He tends to give more emphasis on his own rewards, whether these are financial or psychological. If the startup has to survive and grow, the leader has to undergo a transition to become a Management leader who specialises in the work necessary to achieve desired results.

Management is defined as the science of “Getting results through and with people”. The practice of Management is divided into four functions – Planning, Organising, Leading and Control. Each of these functions has related activities. These are described in detail along with guidelines for implementation in the book “Learning to Succeed”, authored by Pheroze P. Kharas and published by WZCC. Each of the fund applicants is given a copy, which hopefully will be studied for business success. The startup is required to prepare a realistic and achievable Business Plan based on the format provided in the Book and approach the Business Advisory Committee for guidance and mentoring to secure funds.

A ten member Business Advisory Committee (BAC), consisting of experienced and multi-disciplined WZCC members, has been formed to mentor the Applicants and review their Business Plan before funding. If the Plan is found to be credible, WZCC disburses an amount, up to a maximum of Rs.25 lakhs, which is interest-free. The amount funded has to be returned monthly over 36 months, after a 6 month moratorium.

Before the funds are disbursed, the Applicant is required to provide:

  • Demand Promissory Note
  • Arbitration Agreement
  • No Objection Undertaking

The first two documents must be Franked and then signed by the Applicant.

The Applicant also has to provide a Collateral to secure WZCC’s funds. Alternately, two Guarantors will sign legal document for surety on the return of the fund.

WZCC will consider funding only for startups or those who have been in business for two to three years and want to grow their business.

For any further information, please e-mail the BAC at ceo@wzcc.org

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How WZCC can help you Grow your business
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KHURSHEED N. KHURODY

Ms. Khursheed Khurody’s background and education spans four countries and  several disciplines. Raised and educated in the U.K., and the U.S.A, Ms.  Khurody completed her schooling at Stowe in England and her formal higher  education at Harvard University. 

Together with her academic education, both in the humanities and in the  sciences, she has a strong background in the western performing arts and  several prizes and awards to her credit, in western classical music.  

While representing Harvard Alumni in India, Ms. Khurody seeded the Harvard  Club of Mumbai.  

Presently, Ms. Khurody works with The School of Inspired Leadership (SOIL)  and SOIL School of Business Design: (SSOBD) – Coaching and mentoring  students in the Post Graduate Diploma programme in Management (PGDM),  integrating management, design thinking, and the liberal arts while emphasizing  experiential learning through live projects, internships and global exposure. 

She has also just joined Mr. Ravi Kant in his venture, Leading from the Back  (LfB), as an Advisor to his leadership development initiative and strategic  imperative for building resilient, adaptive, and high-performing organisations. 

In addition, Ms. Khurody sits on several Social Purpose and Non-Profit Boards,  while working as a Strategic Advisor & Consultant to both Domestic and  Global NGOs, shaping organisational design, architecture, strategy, partnerships, culture, & governance. 

Ms. Khurody is also presently country Chair of the Shivia Livelihoods  Foundation – an international non-profit organisation, head-quartered in London  – working for the poorest of the poor in India, through its livelihood  development programmes. 

With increasing relevance, Ms. Khurody believes, that the humanities & liberal  arts fashion leaders who are organic, passionate and vitally relevant. For  example, she says, “The parallels between music and management are  astounding.” 

In her spare time, she enjoys, trekking through mountains and forests. She loves  the outdoors and enjoys swimming and riding. She also has a deep love of  reading, writing, history, poetry and philosophy.

Karan Sethna is an enthusiastic member of the event planning group, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for creating memorable experiences. With a strong background in leadership roles within student organizations, Karan has successfully managed budgets, coordinated activities, and collaborated with multicultural teams on diverse events.

Known for his adaptability and attention to detail, he excels at organizing creative projects and ensuring smooth operationsin dynamic environments. Karan is excited to leverage his skills and work with the team to make this event truly outstanding.
Delna Patel, a chocolatier and pastry chef from Pune, India, now based in Toronto, is competing on Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship. She joins 11 bakers in fast-paced, holiday-themed challenges judged by Nancy Fuller, Duff Goldman, and Carla Hall, aiming for the $25,000 prize and the title of Holiday Baking Champion.

Inspired by baking with her mother, Delna trained at George Brown College in Toronto and École Nationale Supérieure de Pâtisserie in France. After working in patisseries across India, Canada, and France, she launched Choc Oh! Toronto in 2020, creating artisanal handmade chocolates. Her products are available on Etsy, Hudson’s at Billy Bishop Airport, and select shops across Ontario.

Through her creativity and passion, Delna continues to spread sweetness across North America.
Shayaan is an enthusiastic marketing professional with a strong foundation in commerce. Having completed his bachelor’s in commerce in India, Shayaan’s academic background includes key areas like marketing, advertising, and business strategies. Currently, he is furthering his marketing expertise by studying at Humber College.

Shayaan is passionate about leveraging his skills to make a positive impact, and he is eager to contribute as a valuable member of the team. His goal is to help create an unforgettable experience at the upcoming Toronto conclave, ensuring its success through his dedication and innovative ideas.
Delna Printer is a skilled marketing and content professional with over four years of experience. She has worked with Canadian non-profits like CNIB and the Heart & Stroke Foundation, creating impactful campaigns to amplify their missions.

Previously, Delna served as a Communications Specialist at a top PR agency, managing high-profile clients like Amazon Prime Video and The Times Group. Her expertise lies in crafting compelling narratives and driving strategies that resonate across diverse audiences.

Zenia is an accomplished wellness coach with five years of experience empowering clients around the world, including in India, the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia, to lead healthier, more balanced lives. Through personalized coaching and holistic approaches, Zenia has helped countless individuals transform their physical, mental, and
emotional well-being.

With a background spanning nine years in the service industry, including five years in retail and another five years in social media, Zenia has leveraged her diverse skill set to build a successful wellness business in Toronto from the
ground up, starting with no external support. Her business thrives on a deep understanding of customer needs and an unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their fullest potential. Zenia’s mission is both ambitious and inspiring: she aims to establish 100 profitable breakfast clubs and create a community of 10,000 people across Ontario, all focused on cultivating healthy lifestyles and achieving their optimal shape. With a strong belief in the power of community and wellness, Zenia is dedicated to helping individuals unlock their best selves.

Fravash has been a passionate leader and active contributor to the Zoroastrian community. From 2019 to 2024, he served as Chair of the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO) Youth Committee, where he played a pivotal role in organizing youth initiatives and fostering a sense of community among young Zarathushtis. Currently, he serves as Co-Chair of the Zoroastrian Youth of North America (ZYNA), continuing his mission to connect and empower the next generation of Zoroastrians across the continent.

Fravash holds a degree in International Business from Toronto Metropolitan University and has entrepreneurial experience as the founder of Fravi Sauce, a business he successfully launched and managed. He now works alongside his family at Pearl Knstructions Inc., their home renovation business, where he applies his business acumen and hands-on expertise. Fravash’s dedication to both his professional endeavors and his community reflects his drive to build meaningful connections and create lasting impact.

Araash Chothia, based in Toronto, Canada, is pursuing his Bachelor of Commerce degree with a major in Marketing.

Passionate about storytelling and community engagement,

Araash serves as the Newsletter Editor for the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO), where he highlights the stories of inspiring local Zoroastrians and keeps members informed through monthly publications. His dedication to preserving and sharing Zoroastrian heritage is evident in his work, which fosters a sense of connection and pride within the community.

In addition to his editorial role, Araash is an active member of the ZSO Youth Committee and the World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) – Toronto Chapter. A natural connector, he enjoys meaningful conversations and delving
into topics that spark his curiosity, such as politics, business, nature, and religion. Araash’s enthusiasm for learning and his commitment to his community reflect his drive to make a positive impact.

Mehrzaad Mogrelia is a dedicated and multi-talented professional known for his exceptional ability to bring diverse elements together seamlessly. With a sharp focus on detail and a knack for problem-solving, Mehrzaad excels in organizing complex projects and ensuring every piece of the puzzle fits perfectly.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Mehrzaad is the goto person for coordinating efforts and delivering results, no matter the challenge. His collaborative spirit, precision, and ability to adapt make him an invaluable asset in any endeavor, consistently turning visions into reality.

Hormazd is a seasoned Corporate and Investment Banker with over 20 years of experience. He founded MergerDomo, an M&A and PE platform, to support Indian SMEs in raising growth capital or exploring sell-off opportunities. In 2020, he presented MergerDomo at the Tiger’s Den in Lonavala and won for its innovative approach.

Based in Pune, Hormazd is committed to transforming the financial landscape for Indian SMEs, leveraging his expertise to bridge the gap between businesses and investors. His work reflects a dedication to fostering growth and creating
value in the corporate finance space.

Yazdi Tantra is a Chartered Accountant turned tech consultant, entrepreneur, and trainer. He combines his expertise in finance and technology to deliver innovative solutions and develop projects that push technological
boundaries.

Deeply committed to the global Zoroastrian community, Yazdi has promoted and managed several websites to foster stronger connections worldwide. As a trainer, he shares his knowledge to empower others, embodying his vision of a connected and thriving Zoroastrian community through the fusion of tradition and modernity.

Migrating to the United States in July 1991, Bomi Patel has become a dedicated community leader and successful entrepreneur. He currently serves as President of the Zarthushti Anjuman of Northern California and has previously held key roles as Global Vice President of WZCC and President of FEZANA, fostering collaboration and cultural awareness within the Zoroastrian community.

In 2013, Bomi founded BB Travel Experts LLC, a travel agency specializing in cruises, global tours, and travel services, earning a reputation for exceptional service. His journey reflects a passion for leadership, service, and entrepreneurial excellence.

Khushru Rustom Chothia has been in the construction industry since 1997, specializing in building custom homes and delivering exceptional finishing work. With over 25 years of experience, he has earned a reputation for quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, bringing his clients’ visions to life with precision and care.

A committed community member, Khushru has volunteered with the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO) for more than 25 years. His dedication to preserving Zoroastrian heritage and supporting community initiatives highlights his passion for giving back and making a meaningful impact.

Dr. Zubin Sethna is an Associate Professor of Marketing, managing a £15 million postgraduate portfolio and bringing 22 years of industry experience to his teaching. An awardwinning entrepreneur, he has founded five businesses and advises organizations globally through Baresman Consulting.

His research on marketing and entrepreneurship is reflected in his PhD and books, Entrepreneurial Marketing and Consumer Behavior.

He also serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Research in Marketing and Entrepreneurship and is a keynote speaker at leading institutions, including IIMA.

Arzan Sam Wadia is a distinguished architect and community leader, originally from Bombay, India, who now runs a successful architecture and technology practice in New York City. A graduate in Urban Design and Architecture, he blends innovation with design excellence in his work. Arzan has held prominent roles in the Zoroastrian community, including as the immediate Past President of FEZANA and Co-Chair of the 12th World Zoroastrian Congress in 2022. He has also contributed to major events like the North American Zoroastrian Congress and the World Zoroastrian Youth Congress, as well as youth leadership
forums in the UK.

As Program Director of the Zoroastrian Return to Roots Program since 2013, Arzan has inspired young Zarathushtis to reconnect with their heritage. He co-founded the Zarathushti Entrepreneurship Development Foundation and is the founding editor of Parsi Khabar, a leading online platform for global Parsi news. Outside of his professional and community endeavors, Arzan enjoys riding his motorcycle through New York City, embracing the simple joys of life.

Meherwan Dara Wadia, PMP, is a dynamic professionalwho seamlessly balances creativity and technical expertise.Based in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Meherwan is askilled DJ and photographer, known for his ability to capture moments and craft memorable experiences. His passion for the arts is complemented by his professionalism, making him a sought-after creative talent in the region.

In addition to his creative pursuits, Meherwan serves as a Senior Program Manager at TCS Canada Inc., where he plays a pivotal role in driving growth and transformation for Canada’s financial institutions and public sectororganizations. Specializing in cloud computing, cybersecurity, financial crime prevention, and AI/ML initiatives, he leverages his technical acumen and leadership skills to deliver impactful results. Meherwan’s unique blend of artistry and technological expertise positions him as a versatile and innovative leader in both his professional and creative endeavors.

Mahyar serves as the Treasurer of the Toronto Chapter of the World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) and is the President and Owner of Sobel & Company, Professional Corporation, Chartered Professional Accountants. With a specialization in accounting, tax, and advisory services for small and mid-sized businesses, Mahyar brings decades of expertise to his clients, helping them achieve financial clarity and growth.

Having lived in the Toronto area for over 45 years, Mahyar is deeply rooted in the community and is committed to supporting local businesses and fostering economic development.
Cyrus is a seasoned entrepreneur with 27 years of experience, successfully managing multiple SHELL gas stations with the support of a skilled team. His dedication to excellence has been key to building a thriving business.

An avid aviator, Cyrus earned his pilot’s license 32 years ago and enjoys every opportunity to take to the skies. His love for flying reflects his adventurous spirit and passion for exploration.

A dedicated volunteer, Cyrus is deeply involved in the Zoroastrian community, assisting seniors with transportation and other needs. As Chapter Chair of the World Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce (WZCC), he fosters connections and supports newcomers to Canada, reflecting his commitment to community building and inclusivity.
Dilnavaz is a trailblazing entrepreneur and educator with a career spanning decades. She launched India’s first corporate magazine for women in 1987, paving the way for a platform that celebrated and empowered women in the workplace. In the 1990s, Dilnavaz successfully ran multiple businesses across diverse industries, showcasing her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit. She also contributed to academia as a professor at Xavier’s Institute of Communication and the Bombay College of Journalism. Recognized for her outstanding achievements.

Dilnavaz was honored by FICCI in 1997 as one of India’s 50 outstanding women achievers. She was featured in their prestigious coffee table book, A Business of Her Own. A certified holistic wellness coach and professional mental health counselor, Dilnavaz is deeply committed to helping individuals thrive. In 2021, she co-founded Global Youngpreneurs, an initiative aimed at equipping young adults with essential life skills and guiding them to achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.