World Zarathushti Chamber Of Commerce

Ongoing
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WZCC’s commitment to Health & Happiness

Event held on Saturday, April 29th, 2017 from 10.30 am to 2.00 pm. Held on the grounds of The Green Pocket nursery school owned by our Committee Member, Anahita Batha. The event was organised by the Committee to give its members an insight into Fitness for everyday living. We invited five professionals who held an interactive session with our members and their guests through a very informative and enjoyable afternoon. Godrej Rustumji – Safety and Self Defence Godrej is a WZCC member of the Bangalore Chapter and is an International Close Protection Officer catering to foreign national protection in India. He is also a firearm instructor. Godrej held the audience’s attention with some verbal pointers on how to be alert and observe one’s surroundings along with exciting self defence manoeuvres with volunteers from the audience. We saw quite a demand for more such sessions in the future. Dr Prathap – Chiropractor Dr. Prathap is one of 10 practicing chiropractors in all of India and has his own wellness centre in Indiranagar. Originally from Canada, Dr. Prathap completed his doctorate in new York and strongly believes that prevention is the best cure for any health related issues. Many in the audience were not aware of what and how a Chiropractor works, so the talk by Dr. Prathap was enlightening to many. He brought along “Alfred”, his partner in crime (!) – a skeletal spine, to explain the physiology angle of his work. He demonstrated a few exercises that all of us could do on a daily basis to reduce the stress of long hours at a desk. His light humour entertained the audience through the 20 minutes he was on the dais. Siddharth & Shaila – Fitness Trainer & Zumba Instructor Siddharth comes from an IT background but decided to switch careers because he wanted to help people live a healthier lifestyle. He is a Crossfit Level 2 coach and a personal trainer who also helps in rehabilitation workouts for sports injuries. Shaila is a Zumba instructor and full of life and vitality. Siddharth took the audience through the necessities of working out and remaining fit, showing the audience what can be done even if one does not have the facilities of a gym. Shaila took us through a fun Zumba workout which got everyone ready for eats. Farzin Sholapurwala – Certified Yoga Therapist and Trainer Farzin is a Life Member of the WZCC and has been practicing yoga for the last 15 years. She had found her own yoga centre and taught over 7100 students till date. She took the audience through some breathing techniques for glowing skin, the benefits of yoga and then practised the Suryanamaskar along with members of the audience who were keen to know the correct way of performing it. Red Fork had arranged the snacks A Millet Salad and a Pasta Salad, two kinds of sandwiches and baked yoghurt with granola. Everyone enjoyed it thoroughly and Chef Xerxes spent time explaining how one should eat a balanced meal, avoid yo-yo diets and how millets are the new in ingredient and can be used in many ways.   Despite the small numbers, it was a successful event.

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WZCC NETWORKING MEET – July 21, 2017

Dear Members, Greetings from WZCC. Though few in numbers, the second networking meeting was very successful as felt by all members present. Here is a small note of what transpired for all those who did not attend. We strongly recommend that more members make it for the August meeting as this will greatly help your contact sphere and business. Meeting began by Zarine narrating how networking in the first meeting had helped her. She had expressed her dire need for a Manager for the restaurant. A few days later, Navaz Lalkaka tagged Zarine on a FB post where an employment agency had listed the candidates available for restaurants. Within two days Zarine had found her self a Manager and also given the offer letter to the suitable candidate. The second incident Zarine gave was where a large catering order, and a repeat one, was grabbed by her restaurant Red Fork, thanks to a WZCC member introducing Zarine to her husband. Again networking paid off. Below are requirements of some of the members present. Anyone with contacts or can assist in any way will be appreciated. Requirements : 1. Anahita Batha – Runs a play school – The Green Pocket / Day care Centre / Library for kids / Hosts kids birthday parties and camps at her school. Looking for : A story teller and a capable supervisor for her day care centre 2. Zarir Bhaurcha – Already has an established business. Is passionate and knowledgable about music. Also teaches piano. Was instrumental in launching his son, Neville’s, music career. Looking for : Some new business interests. 3. Cyrus Bharucha – Is a Chartered Accountant and a partner at Kalyaniwala & Mistry. Looking for : A young Parsi CA whom he can train to become a partner. Needs to be based in Bangalore 4. Zarine – Has a Restaurant Red Fork and also does catering for Events. Looking for : Hosting events at Red Fork – could be in collaboration with others – photographer, musician, book reading, kids training camp, etc 5. Perin Patel – Works in the retail business of Mattresses as part of the family business. In addition is a certified “CueMath” teacher. Also does soft skills training primarily for software engineers. Looking for: Talking to parents how “Cue Math” can make a difference to a child’s mathematics skills. 6. Zaver – Is into the manufacture of chocolates. Caters to corporate, International Retail brands, 5 star hotels, Builders etc. Looking for: Increasing her reach into corporates and other business entities, especially to companies who are looking for gifting chocolate boxes for this Diwali season to their staff and customers.

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WZCC VANCOUVER BC CHAPTER MEETING

MINUTES OF THE MEETING DATE: SUNDAY 11th June, 2017 TIME: 2:00 TO 3:00 PM LOCATION: Arbab Rostam Guiv Dar-e-Mehr, 6900 Halifax Street, Burnaby, BC. WZCC Directors thank ZSBC Board of Directors and Arbab Rostam Guiv Foundation for the use of facilities. ATTENDEES: Total 22 including the speaker. The meeting was called to order at 2:10 pm. Kayras Irani introduced the speaker Mrs. Fi Dastoor Since a young age Fi Dastoor has volunteered for a variety of projects and activities. Fi has been associated with CYBF (Canadian Youth Business Foundation) since 2003. CYBF is now called Futurepreneur. She was introduced to CYBF via CESO (Canadian Executive Service Organization) which she joined in 1988. Her career spans over thirty years in the technology industry. In the latter years she has her own business – Dastoor Consulting doing a variety of projects from the medical industry to the technology industry. Fi was associated with the telecommunications industry for many years. With Futurepreneur Fi has mentored quite a few young entrepreneurs who went on to run their own successful businesses. Her other volunteer activities include being an Ambassador to the Vancouver Opera and assisting them in any office/technology related work. Details of presentation on Mentorship: -What is a mentor, how does one become a mentor and what is involved in mentoring young business entrepreneurs A mentor is a person who has expertise in a specific field and enjoys assisting someone with their venture in this specific field.  A mentor is also a person who enjoys helping young entrepreneurs (age range 18 to 35 years) with their business.  Businesses, for example, could range from fitness studios, events planner, restaurant, ballet studio, setting up shops, setting up a daycare, starting freelance work etc.  Getting in touch with Futurepreneur and submitting a resume is the first steps involved in becoming a business mentor. – What are the steps involved for a mentor with Futurepreneur (business mentor) After an interview with Futurepreneur a seminar is arranged as introduction and what is expected of a mentor.  The seminar can be done on-line at one’s own pace and time. Most mentors have to have some business knowledge and basic accounting experience.  If a mentor does not have experience in certain areas that is required for a specific business, Futurepreneur will try and find a person who has the expertise and is available to assist.  This is a volunteer position and the time devoted to any project is mutually agreed upon by the mentor and mentee. – How does a mentor and protégé (mentee) negotiate a good fit When the on-line course is completed, Staff at Futurepreneur will then set up the mentor with a mentee who is starting up a business. A mentor can also be asked to help an existing business in progress.  The mentor will then set up an initial meeting with the mentee at a mutually convenient date. If both parties – the mentor and mentee – feel there is a good fit and they could work together, the mentor contacts Futurepreneur to say there is a good fit with the mentee.  If it is not a good fit another mentee will be found for the mentor to assist in setting up of the business. Government of Canada provides a loan of $15,000 without interest for two years to mentee. – What is involved for the mentor to keep in touch with the mentee Minimum time required of a mentor to help a mentee is approximately 10 hours per month for a term of two years.  In some cases more time per month maybe required and in other cases less time is required.  Contact with a mentee can be done via email, phone or face to face meetings. Every three months a report is submitted by both the mentor and mentee showing any updates, time spent and achievement to date with regard to the business. – What constitute a successful business operation Futurepreneur deems a business successful if it is still in operation after two years and also when the loan of $15K is paid back. The loan is usually paid back when the business shows a profit and the owner of the business is able to make a minimum payment. – The term and length a mentor is associated with a mentee Two years is the duration a mentor has to assist and help a mentee with their respective business. In order to assist with the business a mentor maybe asked for any type of involvement that is required to make the business a success.  A mentor should advise and direct a mentee in the direction towards making the business a success especially if it appears that the business is going off the rails or not following the business plan. – Wrapping up a contract between mentor and mentee. Just before two years, the mentor is alerted by Futurepreneur to inform that the contract is coming to an end.  The mentor may be asked to submit a final report regarding the business and whether is shows signs of being a success and if the mentee can manage on their own. The mentor is then asked if they wish to start another project with a new mentee or take a little break. The session ended with discussions, and question and answer session at 2:50 pm. Aubtin Yazdgardian offered a vote of thanks to Mrs. Fi Dastoor and presented her a book as a token of appreciation. Refreshments were served. Minutes Prepared by: Homi Italia Date: 15 June 2017

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WZCC Global Meet 2017

“The WZCC Global Meet 2017 is now just a few weeks away, and the WZCC Bangalore Chapter is all set to make the event a grand success! We want to keep all WZCC Chapters & participating Delegates updated about the many events planned, the Speakers, other net working activities & entertainment planned from 14 to 16 December 2017. This is the first such update, and we shall keep you posted about further developments on a fortnightly basis as a run-up to the final event. Dr. Ferzaan Engineer, a prominent and well-loved member of the Parsee community in Bangalore, is a pharmaceutical cientist and healthcare entrepreneur. A pharmacist by training, he received a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of South Carolina. He started the international clinical research industry in India and was the Chairman & CEO of Quintiles India from 1997 to 2011. Ferzaan become an independent entrepreneur four years ago and cofounded two companies which are described below.     Medwell Ventures (medwellventures.com) offers home healthcare services under the Nightingales brand (nightingales.in) Cytecare Hospitals (cytecare.com) is one of India’s only organ-based cancer hospitals and is super-specialized in various surgeries, radiation techniques and chemotherapies. The flagship project was a 150-bed hospital launched six months ago in Bangalore. Ferzaan is a great supporter of the WZCC and we eagerly look forward to having him as our speaker on the evening of December 15th 2017.   Our Guest co-ordinater for the Leadership Games is Zerbanoo Gifford, an author, a human rights campaigner and founder of the ASHA Centre, which pioneers youth empowerment in the fields of sustainable development, interfaith dialogue and the arts. She holds the International Woman of the Year Award 2006 for her humanitarian work, which spans fifty years of grassroots and global activism. In 1989, Zerbanoo was presented with the Nehru Centenary Award for her work championing the rights of women, children and minorities. A pioneer for Asian Women in British politics, she made history by being elected as a councillor in Harrow in 1982 and standing for parliament in 1983. Zerbanoo’s biography ‘An Uncensored Life’ by Farida Master is published by Harper Collins.   We are privileged to have Zerbanoo conduct the session on Leadership Games along with her assistant, Adrian Locher who is an actor, voice coach and director of many years’ experience. As the Artistic Director of the ASHA Centre, he has run numerous drama-based programmes with young people from all over the world including one play that was created with young South Africans and presented to Nelson Mandela at his home. And to give you all a heads up, here’s something on the Bangalore Parsees The need to establish an Anjuman in Bangalore was felt by the Parsee Zoroastrians in the first quarter of this Century, when in the year 1922, after two or three preliminary meetings, they inaugurated the Bangalore Parsee Zoroastrian Anjuman. Even though the first recorded settlement of the Parsees in Bangalore was in 1880, it took nearly 42 years for the Parsee Zoroastrian population to increase sufficiently to fill this long felt need. The newly established Anjuman then took over the management of the then existing “Ararmgah” which had been in existence since 1892, when on the death of Seth Muncherji Dosabhoy Cama, the Parsee residents of Bangalore obtained a plot of land from the Mysore State Government to bury their dead community members. Ever since then, as more and more assets were added, the responsibilities of the Anjuman also increased. Gradually the local community also felt the need for a Fire Temple and a Tower of Silence. Thus in the year 1924-25, Late Seth Dinshaw Cawasji came forward with a donation to the Anjuman to build a “Daremeher” for Bangalore Zoroastrians. Well-known personalities who took a leading part in this project were Late Seth Meherwanji Maneckji, Late Seth Nusserwanii Mirza, Late Seth Kaikhushroo Belgaumvala and Late Seth Rustomji and Nusserwanji Boyce. A year later the Anjuman built a community Hall for religious ceremonies at the “Aramgah” at a cost of Rs.5,000/- and which amount was donated to the Anjuman by the Late Bai Pirojbai Fakirji Chaina, for this specific purpose. Subsequently as the Zoroastrian population of Bangalore increased, structures like the Lady Jehangir Kothari Memorial Hall, the Tower of Silence, the B.J. Entee Dharmashala   and the Kothari Hall Annexe were added to the assets of the Anjuman.and the Kothari Hall Annexe were added to the assets of the Anjuman. Today we number a mere 450-500 in number but constantly strive at keeping this community alive with events, gatherings and preservation of our assets.   “Entrepreneurship is the pursuit of opportunity beyond the resources currently controlled.”

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Cuemath event in Bangalore

Cuemath Launch event was conducted by Mrs Perin Yazad Patel and Mr Yazad Navalshah Patel on 3rd September 2017 at the Lady Jehangir Kothari Memorial Hall from 10:30 am- 2.30 pm. It was a fun filled day where parents and their children attended the event. Cuemath is a revolutionary way of learning mathematics (the basics) in easy and simple ways. There are close to 2000 Cuemath teachers all over India and the numbers keep growing. The event was a great success.Mathematics was explained through worksheets, puzzle cards, math box, tablet activities etc. All students who join this program show dramatic improvements in all areas of life.They become achievers and can do multiple things in a limited budget. So they will always remain financially independent and achieve success in their lives.  

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Trivia Night organized by WZCC Middle East Chapter

The WZCC Middle East Chapter held its edutainment event - "Trivia Night" on October, 29th 2017. An event befitting the WZCC portfolio, it was held at the Mercure Gold Hotel with an attendance of over 50 people. The evening started with the ever popular Children’s Quiz, where our young leaders of tomorrow dazzled all in attendance with their skill and knowledge, answering a variety of General Knowledge, Multiple Choice and Audio Visual Questions. Starting the proceeding Cyrus Debara welcomed all the guests and set the pace for the evening - laying out the rules and quiz method. The young children assembled in teams and the Quiz was curated and hosted by WZCC Youth Team - Jasmine Tavadia and Urvaksh Tantra. Throughout the half hour contest, it was often found the youngsters knew more answers then the adults in the room ! The enthusiasm of the kids was simply amazing, and the winning team "Team Braniacs" consisting of Rayaan Irani, Tiyan Debara, Roxanne Dubash all received educational books courtesy of Mr. Porus Guzder. The main event of the evening was the always competitive Adult’s Quiz. Featuring 9 teams of 4 members each battling each other over 5 varied rounds, such as “Guess Who” and “The Zoro Crossword”, drama and entertainment was never far. The final round where teams got to select their preferred category questions with double bonus points was ever engaging. Movie themed posters, community specific questions and world politics were all brought into play across the rounds. At the end of the evening - "Team G - Ghelsappa Parsis" comprising Charmaine Taraporvala, Marzban Pithawalla, Daraius Antia and Jimmy Dadrewala won the quiz contest by a narrow margin to the runners up - "The A Team" consisting of Khushru Khandhadia, Mozard Antia, Kaizad Pithawalla and Goolnaz Debara. The spot prizes for the round of Trivia open to the audience, was won by Keki Tavadia, Anaissa Irani, Roshni Taraporvala & Wahbeez Wankadia. The typical parsi spirit and bonhomie was on display through out the night, and not only was it a treat for the participating adults, but all the audience members too were cheering on their loved ones.  The winners received a Cash prize and gifts vouchers and were felicitated on stage by Mrs. Dolly Tavadia. As always, no event is complete without a scrumptious dinner, which was enjoyed by one and all. Just before the evening was rounded off, an exciting video presentation of the world famous Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum was shown to the members as it is one of the next planned activities for the WZCC-ME chapter towards education and cultural enrichment. With this promise of more entertaining and enjoyable events in the near future, Cyrus, Porus Guzder (President of WZCC-ME) and Firdaus Irani (Chapter Chair - WZCCME) thanked all the members and appreciated the efforts of the youth committee and its key members (Jasmine and Urvaksh) for managing this event.  

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Artificial Intelligence (AI)

How will it affect our lives and careers? What skills will you, your children, and grandchildren need to flourish in such a future? What does it take to be future-ready and life-ready? Speaker: Atul Pant – Author, co-founder of a knowledge management solutions company. He also imparts training on life skills essential for making the less privileged youth employment-ready. Date:  Tuesday 27th February 2018 Venue: Fladgate LLP, 16 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5DG Time:  6.30pm for 7.00pm sharp start Cost: £10 members & £15 non-members (under 18 and students at no cost) Followed by a networking session where refreshments will be served Confirm by email: anup@veracityeducation.com or  Tel: 020 7493 0437 Some experts argue that AI will lead to mass unemployment, leading to massive social unrest; while other experts are of the opinion that adoption of AI will lead to the emergence of new jobs. One thing is for sure, technology skews the income distribution and creates, what economists call, a ‘winner-takes-all-market’. And, when skills don’t keep pace with technology the end-result is inequality. Would the growing use of AI mean that most humans will survive only on Universal Basic Income and just eke out a living?

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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.