Setting the much-needed precedent for young Zoroastrians to lead the way, the World Zoroastrian Organisation (Feltham, UK), recently appointed the young and dynamic Benafsha Engineer-Mulla as its President, at their AGM, on 6^th October, 2024. Having served as Company Secretary for four years, Benafsha succeeds outgoing President, Zerbanoo Gifford, known for her passionate commitment to international youth empowerment, inclusivity and excellent Zoroastrian initiatives.

The WZO committee and members also bid a grateful farewell to outgoing Chair, Rumi Sethna, and welcomed his elected successor – Darayus Motivala, who has been on the Managing Committee since 1995 and served the organisation in most of its principal roles, including the Chair. Both outgoing luminaries – Rumi Sethna and Zerbanoo Gifford, will remain on the Managing Committee for their guidance and wisdom.

Benafsha’s appointment as President is based on WZO’s aim to have its younger members play a key part in shaping its future. She represented WZO at the World Zoroastrian Youth Congress and has participated in the European Interfaith Youth Congress. Working earlier in the aviation industry, she looks to encourage young members to join the committee, as she believes the future of the community lies with them.

Other changes in roles include Managing Committee member – entrepreneur and mentor, Tirdad Sorooshian who is now its new Company Secretary. Dinyar Modi retains his post as Treasurer, Shahin Bekhradnia continues as Religious Affairs Coordinator, and Armaity Engineer and Manijeh Parki remain Jt. Social Secretaries. Young Zoroastrians, Athravan Sett and Vohu-Friyan Sett, were elected to the WZO Managing Committee.

In the Chair’s report, outgoing Chair, Rumi Sethna, spoke about the mission and vision for establishing WZO in 1980, and its continued dedication to supporting Zoroastrians worldwide, via charity, seminars and cultural events. For details: www.w-z-o.org.