KIN Connections Connectors Database | The Ismaili Canada
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KIN Connections Connectors Database

Meet our KIN-Connectors!

Before advancing any further, please make sure that you have registered as a Connectee.

Are you interested in building a meaningful connection? Register as a Connector.

Connector Bios

Below is a list of Connector profiles. You will see that each of our Connectors comes from a wide range of backgrounds. We have grouped them by professional category to make it easier to scroll through. 

Each profile contains the following information: Name, Brief Bio, LinkedIn Profile, the languages they speak, and the topics they are open to chatting with you on. These topics have been highlighted in their profile and include:

  • Career & Educational Path: Share their personal education and career path, and what led them to choose what they did, and why

  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Their entrepreneurial journey and how you can think about innovation

  • Heart & Passion: Help you discover what you might love to do and tap into your own sources of motivation and purpose - your sparks

  • Aspirations & Inclusion: Help you understand the steps you can take to achieve YOUR aspirations, even in the face of challenges

  • Effort: Share the hard work, learning strategies, and resources that you might find helpful

  • Resilience & Wellness: Help you think about how to build resilience, bring wellness and balance into your daily life

If their profile interests you, click on their Calendly link to sign up to speak with them, and you’re all set! Keep checking this site often as new profiles will be added periodically.

Arts & Media
Faizal Khamisa - National TV and Digital Sports Anchor, SportsNet

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I'm a television reporter and anchor for Sportsnet in Toronto! I'm also a cancer survivor and motivational speaker. Feel free to connect about anything.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Shereen Ladha - Director of Strategy & Social, McCann Worldgroup Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Director of Strategy at McCann Worldgroup Canada 9-5 & Artistic Director/Dancer/Choreographer of ‘dancewithSL’ 5-9 (and weekends). Selected by Google Canada as one of Canada’s Top 15 YouTube channels, FLARE Magazine's Top 100 women with cool jobs, CBC's Canada’s top female artists, profiled by BuzzFeed, the Globe and Mail, Huffington Post, and Breakfast Television, and winner of Strategy Magazine's 2019 'New Establishment Innovator' Award.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Ahmad Shuhib Zuhurooddin - Co-Founder, Zahir x Batin

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French, Farsi, Dari

Ahmad Shuhib is a poet, a motivational speaker, a stand up comedian, a fashion designer, a music producer/video director, an actor, a teacher educator, a camp counselor, curriculum developer for summer camp programs, and the list goes on. His educational background is in philosophy. He co-Founded@ZahirXBatin, a Multi-Dimensional Art platform giving the youth and future generations the possibility to connect/network in various fields related to Art.

 

Business
Aadil Nanji - Director, Research: Info-Tech Research Group

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Completed my HBA at Ivey, and first professional experience was at Adidas, working in a number of roles. Moved on to Info-Tech Research Group, and work in a consulting advisory role on software licensing for all the mega vendors (Microsoft, Oracle, Salesforce, SAP, VMWARE). Typically travelling four to five months of the year, whether that be for work or fun, scuba diving, learning languages and playing/watching most sports.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort

Ali Tajdin - Director, Simplifcation Complaint Process, TD Insurance

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French, Urdi, Kutchi, Hindi

Education: Bachelors, Sociology Professional Background: Big Time Watches - Retails District Manager; Rogers Communication - Manager, Business Services; TD Bank - Manager, Everyday Banking; Manager, Retail Branch Banking, Manager, Senior Business Analyst, Manager, Process Simplication

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness, and Pluralism & Adversity

Alina Lalji - Strategy Analyst, Accenture

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Alina recently graduated from the Ivey Business School, with a dual-degree in Software Engineering. Her professional experience focuses around Consulting and Marketing, and she is currently an analyst at Accenture Strategy. She has been involved with the institutions since she was in Grade 11, and is now a Vice Chair on AKYSB Ontario! If you've played or attended Gold Cup in the last few years, you've probably seen her around.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness, and Getting Involved in the Community

Aliyah Walji - National Payer Development Director, Johnson & Johnson

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Education: HBA, MBA - Richard Ivey School of Business, University of Western Ontario Professional Background: Strategy Consulting, Marketing & Sales Strategy, Brand Marketing, Virtual Healthcare, Reimbursement Strategy, Consumer Goods, Medical Devices Hobbies: Travel, Fitness & running around after my kids :)

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Al-Karim Khimji - Director, Shirin Group

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Running my own business and working on some start ups; previously worked for the AKDN (5 years) and at a management consulting firm (3 years). Committed to volunteering in our community and the greater community. Recently married and living in Calgary.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Aly Kassim-Lakha - Private Equity, Advent International

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I studied at University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, where I concentrated in finance and management. I spent two years at Goldman Sachs in San Francisco, followed by three years at Advent International in Boston. In a few months I'll be starting my MBA at Stanford Graduate School of Business Am more than happy to chat about whatever is on your mind!

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Amin Lakhani - Personal Banking Associate, BMO Financial Group

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French, Urdu

I am a recent graduate from Concordia Studies in Economic Studies. I am currently working in a bank and mostly work with personal and business finances on a daily basis. I am also currently the Honorary Secretary of the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for Quebec and Maritime Provinces. Whether it was at school, work, team sports or even volunteer services, I was always able to be in a leadership position where crucial decisions were made. It is always my pleasure to share my knowledge, experiences and to lead by example.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Ayaz Hasmani - National Wholesale Rep, Hamilton Watch Canada (Swatch Group)

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Gujarati

Ayaz works in the luxury watch and jewelry industry as the National Account Manager for Hamilton Watches at Swatch Group Canda (the largest maker of high-end swiss watches and jewelry). His key areas of focus are managing and fostering client relationships, sales and marketing, brand management, analyzing industry trends, and data analysis. Ayaz is a strategic problem-solver with an impressive record of identifying needs, analyzing daily processes, and introducing dynamic solutions that satisfy immediate and long-term business objectives. His personal interests include skiing, hiking, playing soccer paralleled with a drive to continuously learn new skills as he begins to develop a new passion for data science. Ayaz also enjoys volunteering at Enacatus Canada, the Aga Khan Museum, and BUI.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness, Ways of Networking and Connecting

Ershad Chagani - Associate, Hines

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Ershad is an Associate with Hines, an international leader in real estate development and investment. He holds an MBA and a Master of Real Estate from Cornell University and previously supported the design and construction of a $3bn urban development project in Florida funded by Bill Gates’ Cascade Investments. Prior to entering the real estate industry, Ershad was a Senior Consultant in Deloitte’s Strategy & Operations consulting practice.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Effort

Faizal Shivji - Advisor, Shivji Financial Services

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

-University: undergrad in business (finance and entrepreneurship); Work: financial advisor (family business); Fun: sports (almost all of them), helping out with Ismaili camps; Learning Areas of Interest: leadership/people, business, diversity, ethics I believe in the power of being vulnerable in order to create an environment of trust and sharing/collaboration.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Farah Remtulla - Senior Financial Analyst, Vela Software

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

YAM! My name is Farah Remtulla and I work in Finance at FOG Software. I am also the Ontario Chair for the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board currently and would love to connect with our youth! I live in downtown Toronto and enjoy travelling, hanging out with friends and playing spikeball!

Open to connect on: Heart & Passion

Farid Madhani - Manager, M&A and Project Finance, Northland Power Inc

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Urdu

I work in the infrastructure industry with a focus on Power and Utilities. I have been involved in investing and financing of renewable power projects in North America and Latin America. Before moving to Canada, I lived in Dubai and Karachi, evaluating and executing investment opportunities across the Middle East & South Asia. I have completed MBA from Ivey Business School and BBA from Institute of Business Administration, Karachi. Outside of work, I like reading, cooking and travelling.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path and Effort

Fiyaz Keshwani - Relationship Manager & Consultant, ATB

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Fiyaz is an entrepreneur and banker. After completing his Bachelor of Commerce degree at the University of Alberta, Fiyaz has held progressive management roles within the finance industry, managed various family business, and obtained his CPA, CMA designation. Fiyaz has also served on various not-for-profit boards. Fiyaz completed his MBA and is working with ATB Financial in commercial lending.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Effort

Imraan Juma - Senior Associate, Tembo Financial Inc.

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Finance professional, 5+ years in capital markets across North America as an Investment Advisor/Broker. Experience in venture capital, startups, capital markets and real estate lending. My passions include sports, health, fitness and social activities. taking to clients in the afternoon - I believe we are all capable of things we couldn't have dreamed of, and all it takes is remembering "one step at a time".

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort

Irfan Dhanani - Investment Analyst, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Hi, I am originally from Calgary and graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. I worked for CIBC Capital Markets in their Investment Banking Division before moving to my current career at Ontario Teachers Pension Plan where I am an Investment Analyst for the Infrastructure and Natural Resources team. I am also writing my Level 2 exam for my CFA designation.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Khatera Hashuri - Partner, Venetia Partners LLC

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French, Farsi, Dari

Khatera Hashuri is a business transformation professional with a background of optimizing supply chains, reengineering business processes, and creating operational efficiencies. She has partnered with organizations in aligning strategic vision to operational execution plans, while leading cross functional teams to develop an integrated and sustainable business planning approach. She manages projects in the U.S, Canadian, and European markets. While being in the U.S, she completed her Executive MBA program at the Georgia Institute of Technology. In her spare time, Khatera is an avid photographer and jewelry maker.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort

Muizz Saleh - Financial Consultant, IG Wealth Management

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Independent Financial Consultant with IG Wealth Management. Specializing in planning for incorporated medical professionals and business owners Studied Electrical Engineering for my Bachelors

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Nayaz Khudabux - Management Consultant, PwC Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

My name is Nayaz Khudabux, I studied at McGill University where I completed my undergraduate degree in Neuroscience. I then moved to Vancouver where I completed my MSc. at the University of British Columbia. I'm currently a Management Consultant at PwC focusing on corporate strategy, healthcare, and retail. In my free time, I love playing sports (not discriminatory against any!) and learning about new and interesting things. I am super excited to connect!

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness

Rahim Kanji - Founder & CEO, InTegrate Best Practice

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Over 20 years of Business Improvement and IT experience across industries such as Utilities, Automotive (service parts), Telecommunications and Energy, including the past 13 years with CNOOC International (formerly Nexen Energy ULC). Held versatile roles while at CNOOC Int’l including SAP Program and Project Manager, Change/Education Manager, Benefits Realization Consultant and Manager of SAP Supply Chain, Plant Maintenance and Integration to go along with prior management consulting expertise.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Tatiana Mawani - Senior Accountant, Traction on Demand

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Senior Accountant at Traction on Demand I'll chat with anyone! :)

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Zamir Janmohamed - Implementation Manager, Kustomer (focused on Cx Experience)

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Having lived in Kenya, New York City and London over the past 6 years, I feel truly blessed and grateful for the opportunities and experiences I've had throughout my career. I was born and raised in Toronto, graduated from the University of Waterloo in 2013 and have been seeking passion, adventure and challenge ever since. Be it summiting Kilimanjaro, swimming with dolphins or surfing in the morning and taking to clients in the afternoon - I believe we are all capable of things we couldn't have dreamed of, and all it takes is remembering "one step at a time".

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Resilience & Wellness

Engineering & Architecture
Hanif Shariff - MBA Candidate, Smith School of Business

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

After completing my undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering (McGill University), I worked as a Structural Engineering Consultant in Vancouver for 8.5 years (with RJC Engineers). I left the firm in 2019 to pursue a 1-year full-time MBA at Queen's University, which is now complete, and will be joining the McKinsey & Company Vancouver office as an Associate (Management Consultant) in the summer of this year. Outside of work, I am a musician and love to play team and endurance sports.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort

Karim Kurji - Project Manager, Spark Power Corp

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I graduated as a mechanical engineer from the University of Alberta in 2017, and have been working at Spark Power Corp., an engineering consulting firm for the past 3 years. I currently work as a project manager focusing on capital replacement projects for utility and oil & gas companies.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Effort

Noorullah Hussain Zada - Intern Architect, AAA, FarMor Architecture

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Farsi

My name is Noorullah Hussain Zada and I am originally from Afghanistan. I am a registered architect in Alberta and have been working in the industry for nearly seven years.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Effort

Saadiq Sumar - Urban Pipelines Replacement Designer, EIT. at ATCO Gas

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French

Ya Ali Madad! I'm an Engineer with ~5 years of combined experience working in engineering consulting (~2 years) and in oil and gas at a utility company (~3 years) . I studied Civil/Environmental Engineering at the University of Alberta, where I was involved in several clubs and groups and even was elected as a Vice-President of the UofA Students' Union. I currently reside in Edmonton and, during my free time, I enjoy playing board games, making puzzles, building Lego and Metalworks kits, playing sports (soccer, dodgeball, slo-pitch, curling), learning languages (I'm currently working on Spanish and German), and recently started to learn to play a musical instrument (the bagpipes). I look forward to learning more about you, sharing my experience with you, and learning from you!

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path

Salahuddin Masjesi - Ingenieur (Professional Electronic Engineer), Hydro Quebec

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French, Farsi, Dari

I am an electrical engineer and have been working in this field for Hydro-Quebec since 2011. My other working experience includes working for Canadian Federal Government for almost 4 years. I have been living in Canada for almost 20 years, and I have been a medical student back in Afghanistan.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Sameer Remtulla - Senior Development Manager, Tamani Communities

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Graduated Civil Engineering from the University of Ottawa in 2010, focused in Structural, Geotechnical, Business Management & Entrepreneurship - Practiced engineering consulting for 5 years and spent the next 5 years as a Real Estate Development Manager with Jayman Homes, one of Alberta's Largest Builder/Developer - focused on urban planning, greenfield land development, multi-family development and Hotel Development. I'm also a director of a non-profit called Manavta Project, where we build safe sanitation solutions in rural Nepal.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness, and Non-Profit, Giving Back, Legacy

Shaheed Moledina - Manager, Customer Projects & Intake, Enmax

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

BSc In Electrical Engineering (2009); Manager for Customer Projects & Project Intake @ ENMAX; 10+ years of experience in the electrical utility industry

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Health & Medicine
Amir Surmawala - Palliative Care Physician

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

1st generation immigrant & palliative care physician. Interests in philosophy, health and wellness, spirituality, music

Open to connect on: Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Arif Karmali - Sports Sciences Resident Chiropractor, The Knee Clinic & Elite Sports Performance

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Kutchi

As a current sports sciences resident chiropractor, Dr. Arif Karmali is positioned to obtain fellowship status with the Royal College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences and become 1 of only 8 chiropractic sports specialists in Alberta. Dr. Karmali practices at Elite Sport Performance, a prominent sports medicine clinic in Calgary which also doubles as Alberta’s only private Knee Clinic. He also serves as the Team Doctor of an Alberta Junior Hockey League team that has produced multiple NHL draftees. He has made a number of academic contributions to the vast body of sports medicine and musculoskeletal literature, and has been a member of the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College’s admissions committee for 6 years. Dr. Karmali has also had the opportunity to serve 3.5 years as a board member of the AKYSB in the Prairies region and served as the sports medicine consultant to Team Canada at the 2016 Jubilee Games in Dubai. Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

 

Farah Hodgson - Occupational Therapist, Green Tree Rehabilitation

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I'm an occupational therapist who has been practicing for 17 years in various areas. My passion is working in mental health through trauma treatment using cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior activation therapy, and meditation with people sufferring from PTSD. I also am a Qigong meditation practioner, a certified life coach and a nutritional consultant.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Imran Ranmall - Recreation and Volunteer Services Assistant, Broadmead Care

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Bachelor of Arts in recreation and health with experience coaching youth in soccer and physical literacy along with experience working with elderly in long term Care facilities. Also has a background in leadership and entrepreneurship.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Jamil Jivraj - Psychiatry Resident Physician

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Dr. Jamil Jivraj is a resident doctor specializing in psychiatry at the University of Calgary. Jamil completed his undergraduate degree in molecular biology and his Master’s in Medicine at the University of Alberta. His publications span clinical research examining patient engagement in autism research to approaches to improve health technology development processes. He is an ambassador to the Canadian Medical Association and the founder and lead for “Self-care, Community-care,” a resident led movement to promote resilience in medicine.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Resilience & Wellness

Jan Jaffer - CEO, TREC Dental

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Dr. Jan Jaffer graduated from UOP in San Francisco in 2002 at the age of 22. He joined his father’s practice and took the lead in converting the practice to be digital and paperless in 2003. It is this ethos of hard work, integrity and giving back to his patients, staff and the community, that has led Jan to develop the TREC Dental Partnership that operates 15 dental clinics in the Calgary area. He has also established a digital dental laboratory. Jan regularly volunteers with Kindness in Action and Dentistry For All. He has been on 12 overseas dental missions to perform dentistry in Guatemala, Peru, Tibet, Morocco and Ecuador. He is also currently the Chair of the World Partnership Walk Calgary. He is passionate about health and fitness, and is the co-owner of TREC Fit Lab.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Lizna Makhani - Analyst, Health Financing at ThinkWell

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Urdu, Gujarati

Lizna is a global health and development professional currently focusing on immunization financing. She was previously a consultant with Deloitte's financial services practice and worked with the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on a range of policy implementation projects. She hold a MSc. in Health Policy, Planning and Financing from the London School of Economics, and a BSc. in Neuroscience from Trinity University.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Mobeen Lalani - Analyst, SickKids

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Urdu, Gujarati

 

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Effort

Nadia Mithani - Global Health Research Coordinator, Women’s Health Research Institute

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Kutchi

I have a background in nutrition, public health and international development. I am also a former Girl Guide Leader, Duke of Edinburgh participant and AKFC fellow. For fun I like to cook, travel, dance and volunteer!

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Effort

Naima Salemohamed - Health Consultant, Patient Engagement, Telus Health

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Naima Salemohamed is a Health Informatics Professional based out of Vancouver BC. She has experience working primarily in the private sector with the optimization of EMRs for primary care.and the implementation of home health monitoring across the province of British Columbia. Currently she is rolling out COVID Home Health Monitoring Programs across Canada. She has a Masters from the University of Toronto and did her undergraduate degree at the University of Victoria. Her interests include reading, cooking, photography, and travel.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Noorshan Nanji - Registered Nurse

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Kutchi

I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Health Sciences, Minor in Psychology from Simon Fraser University in 2015. Towards the end of my program, I knew I wanted to work in the field of Public Health and eventually decided to do this by becoming a Registered Nurse. I graduated with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing in December 2019 and took some time after to travel. I plan on starting work soon, and couldn't be more excited!

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Noureen Allauddin - Implementation Specialist, InputHealth

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Noureen is a University of Waterloo Alumna (HBSc Health Studies, 2018). She's passionate about the role technology can play in solving complex clinical problems. Noureen enjoys travelling dancing and spending time with friends and family.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Resilience & Wellness

Rahim Moledina - Naturopathic Doctor, Trinity Wellness Centre

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Kutchi

Graduating as a Naturopathic Doctor in 2014, Rahim has practiced at various clinics in Alberta currently practicing at Trinity Wellness Centre in Calgary. Rahim has also taught courses at the post-secondary level in naturopathy, nutrition, and pharmacology. During 2017-2018, he took a sabbatical from his practice to teach full-time at Wellpark College in Auckland, New Zealand. Rahim volunteers with AKYSB and Global Encounters and enjoys running and cycling.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness

Sadiq Saleh - Product Manager, Varian Medical Systems

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Sadiq is a Product Manager currently working at a health technology company, and has experience working in both an agile (Scrum) framework and the traditional waterfall method . In addition to his professional experience, he also has a strong educational background and passion for software design and analytics. He has previously graduated with a PhD where his thesis work focused on analyzing and summarizing complex data derived from breast cancer patients.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, and Effort

Safia Samji - Physiotherapist, Lifemark Health Group

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with distinction before completing a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the same university. I am currently working for Lifemark Health Group as a physiotherapist dealing with a variety of conditions including chronic pain, post-surgical and sports injuries. I also work as a physiotherapist at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital with individuals who have suffered strokes or brain injuries. I am currently the Chair of the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board for Edmonton and have held many leadership roles within and external to the Ismaili community over the years.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Salima Thawer - Research Associate, U of C; Dental Hygienist

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Salima is a Registered Dental Hygienist with a Master of Public Health degree. She currently teaches in the University of Alberta Dental Hygiene program and manages research projects about community water fluoridation with the University of Calgary's Department of Community Health Sciences. Over the last several years, Salima has developed an interest in public health activities related to oral health. Outside of work, Salima has served on a number of boards and committees including the University of Alberta's Alumni Council, the Aga Khan Health Board for Edmonton, as well as the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada. She currently serves as President of the College of Registered Dental Hygienists of Alberta.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Resilience & Wellness

Shellyza Sajwani - Oncology Pharmacist, Ottawa Hospital; Co-President, Pharmacists without Borders

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Urdu

My name is Shellyza Sajwani; I am an oncology pharmacist at the Ottawa Hospital as well as current co-president of Pharmacists without Borders Canada. I am also an ovarian cancer survivor. In my spare time, I enjoy volunteering, colouring and singing, as well as reading books. My favorite authors are Mark Nepo and Brene Brown.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, Heart & Passion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Suman Kalani - Research Assistant

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Urdu

Born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan, Suman Kalani moved to Vancouver, British Columbia in 2013. She is a recent graduate from Simon Fraser University with a major in Psychology and a minor in Counselling and Human Development. Her career aspirations include counselling and early childhood education. Suman is also an artist and her interests include dancing, henna art, doodling, and cooking.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness, and Gratitude, Mindfulness and Other Day-to-Day Life Stressors

Veeda Padamsi - Senior Product Developer, Apetito HFS Limited

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French

Senior Product Developer at Apetito HFS Limited

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Effort, Resilience & Wellness

Zafira Bhaloo - Paediatric Resident Physician

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French

Pediatric Resident Physician in last year of training with an interest in Quality Improvement and Patient Safety. Completed undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Alberta. Completed medical school at the University of Calgary and currently completing residency at the University of Alberta (Stollery Children's Hospital). Currently serving as the Early Childhood Development Member for the Aga Khan Education Board for Edmonton and previous experience with the Communications Portfolio and Jamati Programs and Activities for the Diamond Jubilee.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Effort

Zahra Mamdani - Consultant - Harm Reduction, BC Centre for Disease Control

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Urdu, Gujarati, Kutchi

 

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness, and Finding Meaning through Volunteering in our Community

Human Resources
Sheena Poonwala - Recruitment Consultant, Rogers Communication

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Urdu, Gujarati

I am a Talent Acquisition Consultant for Rogers Communications - I support their retail teams in Western Canada. I grew up in India and moved to Canada in 2012 as a student, and have since grown from a Part Time Sales Associate in Bell to here. I also teach kickboxing a couple evenings a week. I love reading, writing and the mountains.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

International Relations, Law & Policy
Al-Amyn Sumar - Media Lawyer - Associate, Ballard Spahr LLP

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French

I'm a lawyer in DC who specializes in media and First Amendment (free speech) law. Mostly that entails defending newspapers and media companies when they are sued (usually for defamation) and using laws to help the media get access to information. I enjoy reading nonfiction and playing squash.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort

Aleema Jamal - Consultant, McKinsey & Company

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Aleema is a consultant at McKinsey & Company, with a background in international relations and post-conflict communities. She was previously the Executive Director of a Canadian non-profit called the Century Initiative. Aleema did her undergrad in International Relations at Stanford University, and her JD at Harvard Law School. Aleema loves to hike, cook, and is trying to discover a new musical talent (which, so far, does not exist).

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Alysha Visram - Summer Associate, Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Nursing, Public Health, Law

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness

Anar Mamdani - Director, Environment Division, Global Affairs Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Anar is currently the Director of the Environment Division at Global Affairs Canada. She was previously the Counsellor for Development at the Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations (2013-2018), and while in New York, she took part in the negotiations of the 2030 Agenda which resulted in the Sustainable Development Goals. She has 20 years work experience in the field of international development, starting her career at the Aga Khan Foundation Canada, where she focussed on AKF’s programming in Asia and Africa. She also worked with the UN World Food Programme on WFP’s food aid programming globally. For the majority of her career, however, Anar has worked for the Canadian International Development Agency (now Global Affairs Canada) in the areas of the environment, humanitarian assistance, food security as well as maternal and child health. She has lived in the US, Japan, Pakistan and Italy. Anar graduated with an M.Sc. in Planning and a B.A. in International Relations.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path

Faizan Muhammedi - Financial Officer, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French

Financial Officer at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness

Ghezal Jan Ali - Senior Advisor, Lawyer, National Bank of Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French, Farsi, Dari

Senior Advisor, Lawyer at National Bank of Canada, practicing compliance and securities law. Previous experience at Thomson Reuters and the Canadian Department of Justice.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort

Salma Moolji - Executive, ESG Impact at CDC Group plc

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

School: UWC Adriatic (Italy) - International Bacc. McGill University (Montreal) - BA (hons) International Development London School of Economics (London, UK) - Politics/ Conflict I currently live in London, UK and work for a development finance institution. The UK's Ministry of International Development has an investment branch, which invests in private companies across Africa and South Asia, for the purposes of social and economic development (including for example, providing money to AKFED). I work on responsible investment, including social and environmental affairs, mainly in a private equity context. Before this, I was a sustainability consultant, working with large companies such as Louis Vuitton (LVMH), Mars, Shell etc. I've previously held short term positions and/ or internships at: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Bosnia - post-conflict institution building, Chatham House, UK- policy-focused think tank, Global Witness, UK - environmental NGO, Smithsonian Institute, Panama - social & environmental linkages for tropical rainforest conservation (indigenous areas)

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Shahzma Esmail - Senior Program Advisor, Ontario Ministry of Children

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Education: biology; environment & sustainability; Work: public service (government of Ontario): digital, design, data, policy, delivery, communications; Volunteer: AKYSB national (planning & evaluation), service design groups; Fun: hiking, cooking, reading

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion

Sheliza Kluge - Legal Counsel, Ethics & Compliance, Enbridge

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

As Legal Counsel in Ethics & Compliance, I support the mitigation of compliance risk for the Enbridge Enterprise with a specific focus on workplace misconduct investigations.Prior t o starting at Enbridge, I worked at Husky Energy as a Snr Compliance Analyst. At Husky, I developed and delivered compliance training, as well as advised the commodity trading team on day-to-day compliance and regulatory risk. Preceding Husky, I worked at BP Canada Energy Group and BP Products North America in various roles within the commodity trading teams including Crude by Rail Operations and Regulatory Affairs Advisor. I also practiced regulatory law for three years at Dentons Canada LLP with a focus in energy regulatory law, environmental law and administrative law.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Zahid Dossa - Public Policy and Sustainability

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I am currently finishing my last semester of my Masters of Public Policy at Simon Fraser University. I have a passion for the continuum of the policy process, social policy, and the effective use of public policy to improve the quality of life. I have served on the Board of Directors and in executive positions on various student associations during my undergraduate and graduate studies. Last summer, I completed a coop work term as a Policy Researcher as part of the Policy and Regulatory Affairs team at a Provincial regulator.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Zain Jinnah - Associate, White & Case LLP

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I'm interested in issues of governance and policy, particularly from an international angle. Professionally, I'm an international lawyer in Washington D.C., and have lived in the UK (where I studied public policy) and the US (where I studied international law). Personally, I love reading, cooking, eating, being outdoors, and travelling.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Effort

Marketing & Sales
Amyna Mohamed - Director, Business Development, Randstad Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I am a sales leader with over 10 years of experience in sales, negotiation, exceeding targets and customer service. Specialties of mine include sales, people management, networking, recruitment and event planning & management.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Faaiza Ramji - Marketing Strategist & Principal, On Purpose

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Today, I run On Purpose, a marketing strategy firm based in Edmonton, where I help entrepreneurs make meaningful connections with their customers through brand strategy, business development, and customer experience. I draw from a background that includes investment banking, roles in tech, broadcast media, and most recently, economic development, rethinking how to shape a city’s image and reputation through entrepreneurship, trade, and investment attraction. Along the way, I started a restaurant with two friends in downtown Edmonton in 2011, and had the experience of a lifetime running and exiting that business.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, and Effort

Jasmyn Dossa - Strategy & Advisory Intern, Ceridian

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Swahili

My career journey so far has been rather unconventional. I've worked in the non-profit sector, tech, sales and marketing. Now that I've graduated with my HBA from Ivey, I want to use all that I've learned and pass it on to brilliant students like you. Wherever you are in figuring out what's next for you, I'm happy to help however I can.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness, and Dealing with Failure & Rejection

Nabeel Gilani - Real Estate Professional, Angell Hasman & Associates Realty

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I currently work full-time in Real Estate Residential sales just completed my fifth year. I am also a part time student at BCIT pursuing a business degree with a focus in Marketing & Sales. In my spare time I very much enjoying playing soccer, working out, reading books and going on hikes!

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Nurin Jamal - Senior Associate Brand Manager, Johnson & Johnson

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I have spent the last 6 years working at Johnson & Johnson in various marketing and sales roles on many brands including Nicorette, Bandaid, Listerine, Aveeno, Johnson’s Baby, Clean & Clear, Tylenol, and Neutrogena. I completed a dual-degree at Western University in Health Sciences and Business at the Ivey School of Business. I enjoy travelling the world and trying new recipes!

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Shazya Ladak - Director, Marketing Strategy, Accelera Marketing

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Marketing strategist based in Toronto. Mental health advocate and Crisis Text Line volunteer. Passionate about cooking, reading, and giving back.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Resilience & Wellness

Tasleemah Ladak - Executive Director, Customer Experience & Office of the President, Simply Group

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, Kutchi

I am obsessed about customer experience and journey - my goal is to 'WOW' the customer at every interaction and touch point. I am tenacious, goal-focused and never satisfied with the status quo. I have an entrepreneural spirit and a positive mental attitude. My communication style is clear, concise, and compelling. I have already achieved great things, and know how to build and inspire teams. I want to help my teams realize their potential everyday. Leadership is about striving to become better than we are, and helping everything and everyone around us become better too.

Open to connect on: Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Non-Profit & Foundation
Attiya Hirji - Fund Development Officer, Oxfam Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Fund Development Officer, Fundraising at Oxfam Canada

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, Heart & Passion, Resilience & Wellness

Danisha Bhaloo-Shivji - Manager of Development & Communications, Big Brothers Big Sisters

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English, French

Danisha is the Development & Communications Manager with Boys & Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton. In a volunteer capacity, she sits on the University of Alberta Senate, is the Vice-Chair of the Social Wellbeing Advisory Committee for the City of Calgary and is a Board Member for the Calgary John Howard Society. She was a Candidate for the Ward 12 City Council By-Election in 2015.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Matina Kamdar - Coordinator, Partner Relations, WE

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I graduated in 2017 from the University of Waterloo where I studied International Development and Political Science. Ive worked at multiple different organizations which focus on international development such at AKFC and WE. I most recently worked in the partnerships division at WE where I oversaw Microsoft which has sparked my interest in technology for good. I love to cook, travel. play sports and of course eat!! Always looking for new adventures.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, Heart & Passion, Effort

Nabila Kara Haji - Senior Manager, National Campaign & Events, Aga Khan Foundation Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Senior Manager, National Campaign & Events, Aga Khan Foundation Canada

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Aspiration & Inclusion, and Effort

Nadim Nasser - Program Director, Foundations at The Knowledge Society (TKS)

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Nadim Nasser is currently the Program Director for The Knowledge Society (TKS), a programme focused on developing ambitious young people to impact the world using emerging technologies. Prior to TKS, Nadim spent four years working with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) across Central Asia.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, Resilience & Wellness, and Coaching (how to develop strong plans to achieve any professional/personal goals)

Shakeel Bharmal - Partner & SVP, The Summit Group; Previous COO, AKF Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Shakeel Bharmal is an experienced business and non-profit leader with a proven track record as a senior executive, a consultant, teacher, speaker and management coach. He is known for his ability to align customer-driven strategy with operational execution. His experience includes leading start-ups, process and organization transformations, product launches and business turn-arounds.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, Heart & Passion, and Resilience & Wellness

Taheera Walji - Program Coordinator, Health, Aga Khan Foundation Canada

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

I am currently based in Ottawa, working at the Aga Khan Foundation Canada on the Health Programs Team, where I support with grant management of donor-funded projects in Asia and Africa. I began my career in international development when I participated in Aga Khan Foundation Canada's International Youth Fellowship program in 2017, where I was placed in Indian and subsequently, in Tajikistan. Prior to transitioning into the international development sector, i have worked in a variety of roles in regional, provincial, and national public health organizations contributing to research, knowledge, translation and policy development. I have a Masters of Public Health in Health Promotion and Community Development from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science in Health Studies and Gerontology from the University of Waterloo. In my spare time, I love reading, hiking, practicing yoga, and trying out new coffee shops.

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Effort

Zaheeda Alibhai - PhD Candidate in Religious Studies, Specialization in Canadian Studies

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Zaheeda P. Alibhai is a PhD candidate in Religious Studies with a specialization in Canadian Studies at the University of Ottawa. She received her H.B.A from the University of Toronto. where she worked closely with various non-profit organizations dedicated to promoting and improving children's academic performance in at risk communities. She is the recipient of the SCG scholarship for Outstanding Voluntary Contribution from the University of Toronto. She received her MA in Religion and Public Life from Carleton University. Her research investigates the critical intersections between religion, law, politics, media, human rights, science, and ethics in the study of identity, multiculturalism, and pluralism in Canadian and international contexts. She is the recipient of the Leading Women Building Communities Award from the Canadian Minister of the Status of Women. She has contributed to several publications exploring the intersection between religion, public policy and pluralism. Her research is supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

Tourism & Hospitality
Fariyal Hasham - General Manager, Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel 

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

Refer to LinkedIn for more details on biography

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, and Aspiration & Inclusion

Omar Karim - Consultant, Carpedia Hospitality Ltd

LinkedIn | Calendly | Languages: English

My name is Omar Karim and I am currently a consultant for Carpedia Hospitality Ltd. I received a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Guelph with a major in Hotel and Food Administration, and have been working in the Hospitality industry since then. I have worked in Hotel Operations, I worked as a Quality Assurance Auditor for hotels in Saudi Arabia, India, and Sri Lanka, and most recently, have worked as a consultant for the leading hotel consulting firm in North America. Through this opportunity, I have consulted for hotels in the United States, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Kuwait, and the UK. Outside of work, I am an avid sports fan, keeping up to date with the NBA, NFL, NHL, and PGA (including some 3:00 AM NFL games while working in the Middle East!). I've also been playing basketball since I was a kid (and have a smooth 3-point jumper!) and have played mostly every other sport at one point or another. I have also made it my New Years resolution to begin reading more for pleasure and have compiled a list of books I want to get through this year!

Open to connect on: Career & Educational Path, Heart & Passion, Aspiration & Inclusion, Effort, and Resilience & Wellness

The Ismaili

Contact Us

His Highness Prince Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for Canada

49 Wynford Drive Toronto, Ontario M3C 1K1 CANADA

Tel: +1-416-646-6965

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