As we navigate this global pandemic and worldwide re-openings of industry & small business, our aim is to give industry leaders & owner-operators, the extra tools necessary to succeed in times of adversity
OBJECTIVE : Goal Setting through the game of football. Mixed teams of 17 players. First game played with goal posts; second with posts Debrief : Can we play football without goal posts ? So then how can we go through life without goals ? Session two on Goal Setting : Interactive, participants fifilled in goal sheets and became conscious of the need for written goals. Members shared their long-term dn short-term goals. Wrap-up : Goal Setting is an important aspect for a professional/entrepreneur. Additionally : Ruby Kamdin made a presentation on her NGO – One Billion Literates. : Kashmira Bose displayed and sold her products of eco-friendly bags. A very enterprising morning
Dear Member/Patron, The WZCC Toronto Chapter hosts “An Introduction to Entrepreneurship” designed for our youth. Want your children to have terrific career and entrepreneurial opportunities? Arming them right from their formative years will go a long way in building up their abilities to shine tomorrow. We have a series of workshops and sessions designed for our youth from ages, 7 to 11 and from 11 to 15 with creative, hands on, enrichment workshops designed to get them leading in the future. We start with our two sessions, with an introduction to entrepreneurship on Saturday mornings, 24th and 31st October, 2020, from 11:30am each for one hour. Do register here for both days.
Entrepreneurial Inspiration & Must Have Skills WZCC Toronto and Global Youngpreneurs concluding workshop on introduction to entrepreneurship focused on understanding more in-depth about entrepreneurship and attracting customers. As an inspirational example, we had Malcolm Mehta, a 16 year-old social entrepreneur, studying UK and now in USA who started a football league in a village in India. This made participants realize that age is no hindrance to achieving one’s dreams. Seeing someone so close to their years being successful gives our participants incentive to begin their own entrepreneurial journey. In conjunction with the theme of the session, tips on getting customers was discussed. These ranged from understanding wants and needs to adding unique elements to the product/service, to attracting customers via discounts and freebies. This was followed by an activity which tested their business and marketing skills. The second activity was related to logical problem solving, as it is a must-have skill for entrepreneurs. The youth were placed in an escape room situation, where they had to solve three puzzles which would then lead them to a code and the escape key. It was a fun and challenging set of quizzes which not only tested their abilities, but their mettle too. Before ending the workshop, we recounted the tale of Walt Disney, and how he established Disney and all its different ventures. The two-part sessions covered the gist of various areas under entrepreneurship. However, the main aim was to engage our youth with an entrepreneurial mindset, focus on skills that would help them in the future, and also to enjoy learning. The Toronto chapter and Global Youngpreneurs will continue giving wings to young dreams and making them a reality.
Global Youngpreneurs held their first virtual Introduction to Entrepreneurship workshop for our youth between the ages of 11 to 15. In a rapidly changing world, we recognize that the most important skills are logical and creative thinking abilities, and soft skills and these remain overlooked in our regular education system. WZCC Toronto Chapter worked with Global Youngpreneurs to help develop this entrepreneurial mindset in our youth. Our first session (out of the two-part series) focused on developing a “business” through experiential learning. The participants were given an activity and tasked with creating a product/service, along with the name of the company, the logo and the slogan. Explanation of an entrepreneur, giving examples of different products and services and also real-world logos and slogans helped to make the concept of the activity clearer. Right from Royal Bank of Canada, to Nike, the participants were made to understand how the logos and slogans of such companies corresponded to the product or service they offered. In return, the young participants came up with ideas such as a coffee-flavored soft drinks, to a dog walking service for the elderly, with slogans such as “Too good to be true” and “Fancy footwork for four-legged friends.” The second activity was a small team building survival challenge and each team was “stranded” in a particular situation (on an island/on the moon) and each team had to pick few items which would help them survive. This activity successfully tested not only their ability to work in teams – including listening skills, reasoning skills, and co-operation, but also logical and creative problem solving. Next they worked on building of entrepreneurial traits such as leadership, team work, delegation of work, and promotion. Participants were asked to come up with ideas for running a food or drink stall while working in teams, thus inculcating aspects of soft skills. Each team came up with an idea for their own food stall, the location, how to sell their product, and also the tasks that each team member would perform. Attentiveness, enthusiasm, excitement and participation was maintained throughout and we couldn’t be more happier with the result. Every participant was pushed to think on their feet, explore their potential, and most importantly, learn and have fun!
We in the World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) – Chicago Chapter invite you to attend our upcoming event “Laughter Yoga at Work Makes Business Sense” on May 19 @ 7pm US Central Time, during which we will hear from Certified Laughter Coach Tanaz Bamboat about how Laughter Yoga can help increase productivity, promote team-building, and improve workplace environments. Contact WZCC.Chicago@gmail.com with any questions. Zoom Link: Https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2356601995 ; Password: WZCC; Meeting ID: 235 660 1995
On 16th October, WZCC-Pune had organized an in-person Annual General Meeting at Hotel Shree Panchratna, Tadiwalla Road, Pune. This was the very first meeting which was physical meeting in stead of on virtual platform and got good response from the members and their guests of Pune chapter. Addressing the gathering, Tehmasp Bharuca- Chapter Chair of WZCC-Pune welcome the guests and thank one and all for attending the meeting. In his inaugural address, Tehmasp mentioned that the Pune chapter was happy to put up an in-person meeting considering receding cases of COVID, easing restrictions and improving in pace of vaccination. For last two years, the meetings were held on a virtual platform and all were missing the opportunity to meet and mingle personally. He mentioned that all COVID-related stipulations are strictly followed ensuring the safety of the attendees. Presenting the Annual Report of the activities carried out by the Pune chapter during the year, Tehmasp informed that couple of webinars were held and well attended by audiences all over. Starting with the webinar on the topic of Nuts and Bolts of Digital Marketing by young and dynamic speaker Parinaz Buhariwala, the next webinar was on Oral Hygiene and Dental Care by the husband and wife team of Dr. Taronish and Dr.Farzana Bharucha of Pearl White Dental Clinic at Mumbai and Pune. Thereafter, a very informative talk on the topic of the Journey of Dark Web- Riding the Wave- a guide to safe surfing on the internet was delivered by young and promising speaker Meherzad Motafram who is a partner of Proteq-me, holistic risk management and threat protection solution provider. Next in line was the webinar on Linked In which was very ably taken by Dinyar Mehta who is a Growth Hacker and Digital Marketer. He took Linkedin Masterclass to find out whether we are Linkedin or Linkedout. After this, the last webinar was by Rishi Gupta, Managing Partner with Shepherd’s Hill Group, Pune who spoke on an unsual topic of Where Not to Invest. This talk was also quite informative with tips for the audience. Tehmasp also informed the audience that the next Global AGM of WZCC will be held in Pune on 7th and 8th of January,2022 and requested them to attend in large number and to also come forward with their views and suggestions for making the event grand success. Next in line was introduction of new members who had joined Pune chapter during the year and they were asked to say in brief about their business/profession etc. Dr.Dilshad Patel (Dentist ), Mr. Mehernosh Bobinmaker ( from real estate ) and Adil Rustomjee ( writer ) from amongst the new members spoke about themselves. Mr. Bharucha informed that there are 90 members of Pune chapter consisting of 3 Corporate Life members, 40 individual life members and 47 individual ( annual ) members. He urged the audience to get more new members from Pune . Thereafter, Mr.Bharucha presented audited accounts of the Chapter for the period ended 31st March,2021 which were unanimously adopted by the floor. Mr.Xerxes Dastur- Hon. Treasurer of WZCC-India who specially came from Mumbai to attend the AGM spoke in detail about the new normal trend of work from home and the pros and cons of this method. Next was the informative talk by Viraf Deboo- senior member of WZCC Pune and Director of WZCC-India. He spoke about the upcoming Global AGM of WZCC which is being held in Pune. The global even which is held every alternate year in India was last held at Lonavala in the year 2020 and thereafter it was hosted by UK on the virtual platform due to the onset of the pandemic and the restrictions imposed on physical meetings. So now for the year 2021 the turn is of India to hold the global AGM. The venue of the event to be hled in Pune during 7th and 8th of January will be The Ramada Plaza located at Hinjewadi near Balewadi Stadium on the beginning of Express way from Pune. This venue has international standard of banquets and enough rooms of different budget. Viraf explained the tentative format of the AGM—the first day starting with registration in the morning and Global AGM in the second half and talk by eminent speaker followed by entertainment programme of dance and music in the evening. Next day will start with networking/quitz, panel discussion and address by guest speakers. The evening will be Gala Award Nite when awards will be given to the Outstanding Zoroastrians in the field from amongst the entrepreneurs, professionals , social and youth icons. The audience will also be served with delicious meals through both the days with cocktails. Viraf informed that the Pune chapter Committee is looking forward for the volunteers to come forward to offer their services and suggestions . During the meeting few of them came forward and gave their names . The AGM was concluded with vote of thanks from Farrokh Bhathena, member of the Working Committee of Pune chapter followed by delicious dinner and cocktails served by the Hotel Shree Panchratna.
Link for the above show will be updated here after 20th March, 2022.
HI All, a quick message about the next WZCC event which will again be hosted by Cyrus and Pervin Todiwala at the Cafe Spice, Albert Doc. This time we have Cyrus Mewawalla who will be discussing his career to date, what he has learned along the way and then of course his view of where tech stocks in particular are likely to go and why.
Schedule – VIII Balance Sheet. Click here to read. Schedule – IX Income & Expenditure. Click here to read.
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.
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.
