The Toronto Conclave 2025, a five-day international gathering of Zoroastrian professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders, held from 29^th April to 3^rd May, 2025, concluded on a high note, leaving delegates inspired and deeply engaged. Celebrating the theme, ‘The Other Side of Business’, the event, which took place alongside the FEZANA AGM, focused on values beyond profitability, namely purpose, happiness, legacy and social impact.

Organised at multiple iconic venues across the Greater Toronto Area, the conclave commenced with a welcome prayer at the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO) Dar-e-Mehr, followed by a warm and inspiring welcome address by WZCC’s Global President, Capt. Percy Master, who highlighted the organisation’s accomplishments over the past year and outlined key goals for 2025. Over the course of five enriching days, attendees experienced thoughtfully curated programmes comprising keynote speeches, dynamic panel discussions, cultural excursions and spirited community celebrations – seamlessly blending inspiration, engagement and fellowship.

A standout highlight was the keynote address by award-winning social innovator Firdaus Kharas, whose compelling talk, ‘Quest to Spread Dignity’, underscored compassion as a powerful force, in both, professional and personal realms. He urged attendees to lead with empathy and to shape legacies grounded in dignity and purpose. Equally impactful was the dialogue session, ‘Turning Points and Triumphs’, featuring theatre personality Mahabanoo Mody Kotwal and human rights advocate Zerbanoo Gifford, who was conferred an Honorary Membership at the Conclave. The speakers shared their journeys through activism, resistance and reinvention, captivating the audience with honesty and humour.

Youth engagement was central to the conclave’s programming. The panel ‘Young Zarthushtis on Alternate Paths’, moderated by Zenia Wadia, spotlighted non-traditional career journeys. Panellists Arnavaz Dhabhar, Delna Patel, and Arashasp Shroff discussed their ventures in creative and mission-driven fields, highlighting the evolving definitions of success within the community. In a session on intergenerational perspectives, advertising veteran Sam Balsara led a thoughtful discussion on balancing purpose and profitability in business. Alongside panellists Behnaz Nanavati, Dr. Adil Bhesania, Jivahn Moradian and Meherwan Wadia, the dialogue underscored that fulfilment and impact are increasingly seen as essential outcomes of leadership.

A forward-looking vision was offered by Cyrus J. Mistry, whose presentation on exponential thinking and artificial intelligence urged the audience to embrace innovation fearlessly. He encouraged delegates to think beyond conventional frameworks and approach the future as an opportunity-rich arena. Health and wellness were also addressed through an energising session led by holistic health expert Dr. Mickey Mehta. Blending movement, motivational talk and humour, Dr. Mehta’s session encouraged attendees to integrate wellbeing into their everyday lives.

A key business-oriented feature was the Tiger’s Den, a competitive pitching platform for Zoroastrian entrepreneurs. Participants presented their ventures before a panel of investors and over 100 global delegates. The event successfully facilitated funding opportunities and networking for several start-ups. Beyond sessions, the conclave incorporated rich cultural and recreational experiences. Delegates also visited Niagara Falls, the Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation (OZCF), and enjoyed panoramic dining at the CN Tower. Each outing reinforced community bonds while showcasing Canadian hospitality.

The event concluded with a gala evening that combined celebration with reflection. A fireside chat between cricketer and businessman Ronnie Irani and Edul Daver explored authenticity in leadership and career transitions, receiving much appreciation for its candid insights, engaging storytelling and inspirational takeaways that deeply resonated with the audience.

Each year, WZCC proudly honours exemplary Zoroastrian entrepreneurs, professionals, and social visionaries with its prestigious ‘WZCC Outstanding Zarathushti Awards’ for the year 2024. This esteemed recognition was presented to the following distinguished community luminaries for their exceptional achievements and enduring contributions:

Cyrus Katgara – Outstanding Zarathushti Entrepreneur Of The Year

Cyrus Katgara, 4th-generation founder of Jeena & Company, is a pioneering force in Indian logistics. A visionary entrepreneur, he has elevated his family legacy to soaring heights – scaling it to ₹1200 crore, expanding across 28 cities and overseas, and earning prestigious awards. A true industry stalwart and generous philanthropist, he continues to serve both the nation and the Parsi community with pride.

Hafeez Contractor – Outstanding Zarathushti Professional Of The Year

Renowned architect and proud Parsi, Hafeez Contractor has transformed skylines and lives with his iconic creations – from The Imperial Towers and Dubai’s 23 Marina to India’s busiest airports. A Tata Scholar and recipient of 70+ awards, he champions urban reform while inspiring the community with his visionary leadership, global acclaim and lifelong dedication to excellence.

Varun Balsara – Outstanding Young Zarathushti Entrepreneur Of The Year

At just 25, Varun Balsara is a dynamic serial entrepreneur and Mobed whose ventures span continents and causes. A Warwick graduate, Apple Top 20 podcaster, and co-founder of a $1.5M ed-tech startup, ‘Let’s Level Up’, (an AI-based platform supporting coaches and course creators in building and scaling their online education businesses), he blends cutting-edge innovation with deep Zoroastrian values, serving his community with wisdom, purpose, and pride.

Diana Pundole – Outstanding Young Zarathushti Professional Of The Year

Proud Zoroastrian and trailblazing Indian racer, Diana Pundole made history by becoming the first woman to win a national championship in the male-dominated, high-octane world of motorsport. A fearless competitor and passionate role model, she shattered stereotypes with grit, resilience and racing prowess – emerging as a true inspiration to the community and a symbol of strength for women everywhere.

Rusi Bhumgara – Outstanding Zarathushti Social Entrepreneur Of The Year

84-year-old Rusi Bhumgara is a stalwart of the Zoroastrian community, serving in pivotal roles across FOZAWAC, All Parsees Sports Foundation, Bombay Parsee Association and more. A passionate advocate for youth, culture and sport, he has been honoured with the All Parsees Lifetime Achievement Award, named Man of the Year by the American Biological Institute, and featured in Eminent Parsis for his unparalleled commitment and lifelong service.

Awardees Rusi Bhumgara and Varun Balsara were physically present to receive their awards while the rest of the winners shared a video presentation of their acceptance speech. The evening concluded on a celebratory note with a classical musical program, featuring exceptional performances by talented Zoroastrian youth including Ardavan Taraporewala, Tara Jamshidian, Behram Hathi, Zane Commissariat and Meher Pavri, adding more vibrancy to the festive spirit. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed delicious Parsi-style cuisine catered by various Zarthusti caterers, adding a touch of warmth, nostalgia and culinary delight.

Speaking to Parsi Times, WZCC’s Global President, Capt. Percy Master, shared, “I was very impressed with the efforts put in by Cyrus Patel and Dilnavaz Shroff and their team of young and old members who single-handedly organized a very successful event. Hearty congratulations to all the winners. We would like to extend our gratitude to Parsi Times for the unwavering support over the months. Their continued coverage greatly helped in amplifying the buzz and ensured that news of this Gala event reached our Global Community.”

All in all, Toronto Conclave 2025 was a resounding success, reaffirming the strength, innovation and collective spirit of the global Zoroastrian community. The conclave’s central message was clear: in today’s world, the true measure of business lies not only in profits, but in purpose-driven leadership, collaboration and shared success.