World Zarathushti Chamber Of Commerce

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Spotlight on Vistasp Karbhari

Vistasp M. Karbhari is a Professor in the Departments of Civil Engineering, and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Texas at Arlington, where he served as the 8th president from 2013 to 2020.  He is internationally known for his research on processing and mechanics of composites, durability of materials, infrastructure rehabilitation, and multi-threat mitigation, for which he has received awards and is a fellow of numerous professional organizations. As an administrator and higher ed leader he is known for his work and advocacy for access and attainment in higher education as well as for enhancing excellence and has been honored by numerous organizations for his contributions including as a Fellow of Complete College America.

“Operation Tekchem”

Dear Member, Many Members have fond memories of WZCC programs which were held on earlier occasions at Leslie Sawhny Training Centre, Deolali. Since there is an increasing demand from the Members to have such a program once again, WZCC India Region has decided to hold an event at the Centre. This event will be held at the same venue covering two days, Saturday 27 th and Sunday 28th April 2024. The overnight stay includes a visit to the award-winning Gargoti Museum, the only Museum in India that displays the mineral treasures of the earth (details attached). The program “Operation Tekchem” will be expounded by Maj. Gen. Cyrus Pithawalla, AC, VSM, a former General officer of the Indian Army. He was awarded India's highest peacetime decoration for gallantry, the Ashok Chakra, in 1981, and by virtue of this, he is one of the most decorated flag officers in the history of the Indian Armed Forces. His session will be a first-hand account of action of neutralizing nine hard core insurgents in Manipur. This is a tale of leadership, discipline & decision making. Itinerary Saturday, 27 th April, 2024 - 6.30 a.m. sharp -  Members will leave Sethna Agiary, Tardeo, (opp.Bhatia Hospital) (Members will need to assemble at the coach site 15 minutes prior to departure) - 6.50 a.m. sharp - At Dadar (opp. Dadar Parsi Gymkhana)   (Members will need to assemble at the coach site 15 minutes prior to departure) 10.45 a.m. – 12.15 p.m.  Visit to Gargoti Museium (on Nashik-Shirdi Highway) -  1.30 p.m. Reach Leslie Sawhny Training Centre, Deolali. -  2 p.m. to 3 p.m. -  Lunch -  3 p.m. onwards members get free time -  7.15 p.m.  onwards - Assemble in the Leslie Sawny Training Centre garden for networking and dinner. Sunday, 28 th March 2024 - 8.00 a.m. – Breakfast - 9.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. – Program “Operation Tekchem” (Coffee break 11.15 a.m. to 11.35 a.m.) - 1.15 p.m.to 2.15 p.m.  - Lunch - 3.00 p.m. – Departure for Mumbai. The cost for this trip will be Rs. 5000/- - per head (Rs 5600/- for Non-Members) which will include full lodging/ boarding at the Leslie Sawhny Centre, Deolali, (including Tea/Coffee, one Breakfast, two lunches, one Dinner) to & fro transportation by A/C bus, visit to Gargoti Museum and packed breakfast and mineral water on the bus on 27 th April, 2024. The cheque for the same can be made in favour of “WZCC - India” or you can send the payment by NEFT as per details given below:- Beneficiary Name: - WZCC – India Account No: -             50100344822970 Bank Name: -             HDFC Bank Ltd. Branch: -                     Tardeo, Wadia Street IFSC Code: -                HDFC0000544 Please inform after you have completed the payment by NEFT. Please note that since the Leslie Sawny Centre has limited lodging facilities, only a total of 25 persons can be accommodated on a first come first served basis, (double & Triple sharing Non-A/c rooms).  Do NOT miss this opportunity. Do inform us at the time of making the payment whether you are Veg or Non-Veg. All members are requested to confirm their participation with Mr Ronnie Shrof on 9619165444 / 23532522, email. wzcc@wzcc.org  and arrange to make payment latest by 15 th April, 2024. Only after making payment your name will be registered. Warm regards, Sincerely, Behroze Daruwalla President – India Region   The Gargoti Museum is a museum in the town Sinnar near Nashik Maharashtra that houses a collection of natural mineral and gem specimens collected by K. C. Pandey over 40 years. The word "goti" refers to a Marathi word meaning stone or pebble. This is India's first and only gem, mineral, and fossil museum. It also houses the largest and finest collection of Indian zeolite minerals and crystals in the world. The Gargoti Museum houses the largest & the finest collection of Indian zeolite minerals and crystals in the world. It is divided into two galleries namely Deccan Plateau Gallery and Prestige Gallery. There are 2 floors in the museum and has vast collection of minerals and crystals. It is located 32 km from Nashik on Nashik-Shirdi highway in a town named Sinnar. The museum's displays include: ⚫ Natural Crystals ⚫ Zeolites, Minerals ⚫ Gem Stones ⚫ Precious Stones & Metals ⚫ Semi-Precious Stones & Metals ⚫ Fossils ⚫ Statues ⚫ Handicrafts Deccan Plateau Gallery This section displays zeolite minerals and crystals excavated from the Deccan region of India, mainly Maharashtra and surroundings states. Exhibits include: 1. Zeolite, mineral, and crystal specimens 2. Fossils of shells, extinct dinosaurs, and mammoths 3. Finest quality of statues carved out of precious/semi-precious stones 4. The fluorescent mineral display Prestige Gallery This section displays rare finds from India and around the world. This includes - 1. Gem, precious/semi-precious stones 2. Precious/semi-precious metals 3. Rocks from Moon and Mars 4. The best of Indian zeolite minerals The Prestige Gallery, designs are inspired by the Indian Parliament & Monument and showcases a glimpse of the spell bounding treasures of Nature.  

Featured Featured

Barbeque and Networking- where every flame tells a story

The WZCC Toronto Chapter organized a barbeque-cum-networking event on Saturday 8 th June 2024 at the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario in Toronto. The overall event feratured several activities like fun games, informal networking and sumptous barbeque dinner featuring both vegetarian and non-veg delicacies and witnessing a grand turnout of 62 members from across the community. The event commenced with formal registration process where each attendee was given a name tag so that other attendees can recognize them and learn more about them as individuals and what they do professionally. The informal networking during registration set the tone for the evening, transitioning into the first segment of the evening- Speed Networking. The second segment was something many attendees had heard and participated in for the first time and was hailed as the best part of the evening- Human Bingo. ‘Attendees were given 25 minutes to complete this activity and the one to complete it first won a special prize sponsored by WZCC Toronto Chapter. There was also a door prize giveaway, the winner for which was chosen by spinning a wheel of numbers. The final segment was the one that everyone had been waiting for- the barbeque dinner which was enjoyed by one and all. Informal networking once again took precedence where the attendees discussed a little more about some potential business ideas and how they can leverage the WZCC platform to launch and promote their ideas while devouring the burgers and tandoori chicken, fresh off the grill. Overall, all the members who attended the event had a gala time and everyone is excited for future events as well as the biggest event hosted by the Toronto Chapter- the WZCC Conclave 2025 to be held in the vibrant city of Toronto from April 29 th – 3 rd May 2025. Our Lovely Chefs   Speed Networking underway The Lucky Draw prize winner receiving a wireless Bluetooth speaker from Dilnavaz Shroff, Global Director and Cyrus Patel, Chapter Chair and Director.

WZCC/ZEN | Spotlight on Adil Malia on Sunday, 16 June 24

Please join us in the next WZCC Spotlight in the series from the Zoroastrian Education Network on 16 June 2024 at 11 AM EST, 4 PM London, 8.30 PM IST, 11 PM Singapore https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83366370402. Passcode: WZCC WZCC Mission – Defines PURPOSE Provide an opportunity for those who seek to create intellectual, economic and social value beyond resources controlled and maximize the nexus between the three values for sustainable development for the good of the Zarathushti and other communities. Adil Malia: CEO 'The FiRM' - a boutique Business Management Consultancy Adil holds a degree in Commerce, a Bachelor’s degree in Law, a Master's degree in Human Resources Management from the prestigious Tata Institute of Social Sciences. He has attended the Coca-Cola Wharton School 'Advance Management Program' and has been bestowed a 'Causa Honoris' Doctorate in Philosophy by Chitkara University, Chandigarh, India . With over 4 decades of Top Management Corporate experience in India and overseas, working in Godrej , GE, Marks & Spencers, Coca-Cola and Essar, Adil has served at Board Levels in areas of Leadership, HR, Marketing, Business Management Consulting and Advisory services. Adil is a Business Coach to some of the well recognised CEOs in India. Adil is fond of music and plays the Mohan Veena. He is also a TedX speaker. Adil has won several national and international awards - including the HR 'Grand Master' award at the 'WHR Congress'. He was ranked first amongst the list of top 110 Influential Global leaders by 'People-Hum', a global ranking organisation for professionals. He is an Independent Director on several companies and is one of the 7 elected Trustees on the Board of the Bombay Parsi Panchayet. Adil is an active member of the WZCC for the last 10 years now. Topic: WZCC/ZEN Spotlight on Adil Malia Time: Jun 16, 2024 08:30 PM Mumbai, Kolkata, New Delhi Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83366370402 Meeting ID: 833 6637 0402 Passcode: WZCC

“Unlocking the Power of ChatGPT: A Type of Large Language Model”

WZCC-Chicago invites you for a special webinar on “Unlocking the Power of ChatGPT: A Type of Large Language Model” by Mr. Vispi Nevile Karkaria DATE: Saturday June 22, 2024 TIME: 10:30 AM CDT, 11:30 AM EDT, 8:30 AM PDT, 9:00 PM IST, 4:30 PM UK Time, 1:30 AM Australia Time Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88232848767?pwd=RNKhlVzOTfZJu4yaykvB27BBmagIRi.1 Location: Online webinar ChatGPT is like you Digital Companion for Smarter Interactions and Productivity. The points to be covered are: 1. Smart Helper: ChatGPT understands and communicates like humans, making it useful for tasks and conversations. 2. How It Works: It learns from vast amounts of text, using neural networks to recognize patterns and provide coherent answers. 3. Practical Uses: It assists with questions, suggestions, writing, and casual conversations, simplifying daily tasks. Advanced Technology: Powered by large language models, ChatGPT excels in understanding and generating human-like text. RSVP Information: Kindly email your interest to attend this webinar to wzcc.chicago@gmail.com

Unleash the Power of Wealth

Farhad Captian Co Founder Confiance Finvest Farhad has over two decades of experience in financial services and wealth management. He has completed his MMS, Finance and is also a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). His vision is to empower clients to make prudent financial decisions, achieve financial goals and stay financially independent. Venue: Bellisima Banquets 534, BCMA, SVP Road, Opera House, Opp Sukh Sagar, Mumbai: 400 007 Date: Saturday, 3rd Aug '24 Time: Registration @ 4:30pm, event Starts @ 5pm followed by High Tea Entry Fee: INR 200 to be paid via G-Pay to Rashna or Veera RSVP: Veera @ 9137110735 Rashna @ +91 98199 95230

Spotlight – R. Gopalakrishnan & Harish Bhat on JAMSETJI NUSSERWANJI TATA – Sunday 27th October, 2024 at 7.00 p.m. IST

Spotlight - R. Gopalakrishnan & Harish Bhat on JAMSETJI NUSSERWANJI TATA DON'T MISS THIS UNIQUE CONVERSATION WITH EX-TATA SON DIRECTORS.  Please join us on Sun, 27 Oct 24 at 7 PM IST, 1.30 PM UK, 9. 30 AM EDT  in the next WZCC-ZEN - Spotlight https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83413516327 Meeting ID: 834 1351 6327         Passcode: WZCC    

Announcing our Global AGM on 18th January, 2025 at 7.30 pm IST

23rd December, 2024 Dear Members, Greetings. Once again it’s that time of the year, the Global Annual General Meeting.  This year the Annual Global Meet is scheduled on Saturday 18th January, 2024 at 7.30 p.m. IST VIA ZOOM. This is because, a huge majority of our Global Members want to participate in the Meet, but are unable to attend physically but at the same time want to take part in the activities of WZCC. The Agenda for the same is attached, Members from all Global Chapters are requested to attend. The Zoom Link for this meeting will be: Topic: WZCC Global AGM Time: Jan 18, 2025 07:30 PM India Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88156570415?pwd=CDDbCxuqVzboLvjbjawZ07uatepXon.1 Meeting ID: 881 5657 0415 Passcode: 981283 Members who physically want to meet will not be disappointed. WZCC has planned a Conclave in Toronto, Canada from 29th April to 3rd May, 2024. This Conclave will be a very meaningful event allowing Global Members to network, exchange rich ideas and avail of business opportunities. In this International Conclave, besides sightseeing and visiting places of importance, Members will have inspiring talks by eminient speakers, panel discussions, workshops etc. The website to register for this Conclave will open shortly. Eagerly looking forward to your attendance and take this opportunity to engage with you at the Virtual Global AGM - 2024. Do join in large numbers. Very truly yours, Capt. Percy Master Global President. AGENDA FOR GLOBAL AGM - 2024  

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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.
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