WZCC’s Unique Internship & Mentoring Programme Launched
By Zerick Dastur
President, WZCC India Region
Interdependence and community wellbeing are attributes associated with the Parsi/Irani Zoroastrian community. Individuals of our community, who have established a presence in their respective fields, have always stepped forward to create opportunities for others.
Mission of WZCC
Amongst various welfare-oriented trusts and institutions in our community, the World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce (WZCC)aims at acting as a catalyst for creating opportunities.
The main objectives of WZCC are to promote Zarathushti entrepreneurs and professionals through education, training and propagation of ideas and to disseminate information on developments in trade, commerce andindustry through lectures and seminars.
Guidance & Mentorship
One of the most important aspects for laying the foundation fora successful career is getting the right guidance and mentorship from those who have requisite experience in the field.
Many of our youngsters who wish to pursue different vocations, lack access to senior members of the community whose experience and expertise they can benefit from. Guidance and mentorship at the appropriate time can sow the seeds of a bright future and can also give clarity on the career path one may adopt.
Guidance and mentorship may be useful not only for those starting their career but also for those looking to expand, diversify or venture into other areas.
Unique Internship Programme
With this object in mind, WZCC has startedan internship/mentorship programme where various corporates and professionalshave been approached to offer internship opportunities to members of our community. Individuals and corporate in the fields of manufacturing, engineering, banking, logistics, real-estate, media, law, architect and chartered accountancy have agreed to participate in this programmeinitiated by WZCC, by offering internship opportunities subject to availability and on terms and conditions, which will be decided by the respective organization/individual. Any Parsi/Irani Zoroastrian looking for internship to gain experience can contact WZCC who will use best endeavors to connect them with the relevant individual/organization, which has subscribed to this programme.
Desirous members of our community may contact Aspi Antia (email: ceo@wzcc.org.) orHormaz Randelia (mob No. +91 9619165444 / email: wzcc@wzcc.org) in this regard.
Similarly, established professionals and corporates who desire to offer internship to our community youth and contribute to their overall development may also contact the above individuals from WZCC.
Getting appropriate guidance and mentorship not only helps an individual gain experience but also creates a network of relationships. In any business or profession,it is noticed that established long term relations play an important role. Endeavors like these will contribute towardsthe well-being of ourcommunity by using the resources available, including intellectual capital and existing business talent and know-how, to create opportunities for our youth.
How Internship Helps
“As an intern you have the opportunity to learn how the business is being managed. Internships help understand how acompany has managed changerelated to their business,”saysentrepreneurPheroze Kharas who has authored the book, ‘Learning to Succeed’.
“WZCC completes 25 yearsthis year. One of the game-changing initiatives of WZCC is providing interest-free start-up funds to young entrepreneurs and professionals. WZCC has now initiated an internship programme and mentoring of our youth. I sincerely request our youth to take advantage of these initiatives,”says Capt. Percy Master, WZCC Global President.
It is imperative to create value for members of our community within our country, so that the youth of our community look at India as a land of opportunity where their aspirations can be fulfilled. These youth, in future, can contribute towards the welfare of our community and country.
Parsi/Irani Zoroastrians have been part of a number of success stories in various fields. It is these individuals who continue to inspire future generations and act as role models. Together we can make a difference.
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.
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