Zoroastrian Society of Ontario News

WZYLF - Applications Now Open for the World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum 2026

Tue, 19 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

The World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum (WZYLF) is now accepting applications for its next international gathering of young Zoroastrian changemakers. Held at the ASHA Centre in the United Kingdom’s Forest of Dean, this immersive leadership retreat brings together emerging Zoroastrian leaders from across the globe to learn, collaborate, and shape a brighter future for our community.

The WZYLF offers participants a unique space to explore heritage, faith, and modern leadership— rooted in Zoroastrian values and our historical achievements. Through interactive workshops, reflective sessions, and collaborative projects, participants will develop tools to lead effectively, strengthen community engagement, and form lifelong global connections. The WZYLF places a strong emphasis on taking action, and participants will develop and lead group initiatives to solve pressing problems within our community.

Who Can Apply
Motivated young Zoroastrians who are active or aspiring leaders in their communities are encouraged
to apply. Ideal applicants are passionate about cultural continuity, service, and positive impact.

Key Details
Location: The ASHA Centre, Gloucestershire, England
Dates: May 19-27, 2026
Duration: 7 days and 8 nights
Ages: 25-45, though applicants outside of this range are considered
Fee: £725 (includes accommodation, meals, and activities)

Applications are open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.

Apply Online

Follow us on Instagam: https://www.instagram.com/wzylforum/

If you have any questions or need more information visit https://wzylf.com/ or contact: contact@wzylf.com.

WZO - Critical Medical Assistance Appeal for Kaizeen Postvala & Zenobia Paymaster

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 21:51:11 GMT

World Zoroastrian Organization, U.S.

6943 Fieldstone Drive, Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527-5295

Phone: (630) 654-8828 Fax: (630) 654-8838 kayomehta@aol.com

TWO URGENT MEDICAL APPEALS FOR ASSISTANCE FROM INDIA

We have received these two critical urgent mental health appeals.

Kaizeen Postvala (34) is currently undergoing treatment for chronic Schizophrenia with clinically subnormal intellectual functioning. Kaizeen suffers from active hallucinations, severe impairment in managing daily activities, depression, insomnia, loss of appetite and significant undernourishment. Kaizeen’ father abandoned her and her mother when Kaizeen was 10 years old. Since then, they have resided with her maternal grandparents at their home in Pune, India. They do not have any source of income whatsoever. Her treatment and therapy cost at Samyak Rehabilitation Centre are Rs. 50,000 to 55,000(USD 611) per month. The family is finding it extremely difficult to sustain this financial burden and seeking our help..

Zenobia Paymaster (46) is a special child, who has lost both her parents, father in 2005 and mother in 2003. She is diagnosed with Schizophrenia since December 2023 and is lodged at Wisdom Matters facility, who cater to patients with mental illness at Pune, India. The monthly ongoing cost is Rs. 50,000 to 60,000 (USD 667) per month for the treatment which has been paid by the family so far. They have incurred a huge expense of Rs. $4,00,000 (USD 4,445) and are now finding it very difficult to continue further. The family is requesting for whatever help possible.

Considering both cases of young age, chronic mental illness and lifelong need for treatment with significant recurring cost, we request your maximum possible support. Please donate generously to WZO to assist Kaizeen and Zenobia with their medical costs. With Ahura Mazda’s Blessings and your donations, we will enable both the individuals to continue their needed treatments.

Donate Now

Thank you very much for your benevolence and Zarathushti spirit!

With kind regards,

Kayomarsh P. Mehta, President,
WZO US Region Ltd.

Ushta ahmai Yahmai ushta kahmaichit ………………....... Ushtavaiti Gatha
Happiness (comes) to him/her who makes others Happy …….. Yasna 43.1

The mission of World Zoroastrian Organization is to be of service to all, by providing critical assistance and support to the needy anywhere in the world. WZO US Region Ltd. is a registered tax deductible 501(c) 3 charitable organization registered in USA. US Tax Exempt ID: 36-4236575.

Urgent Donation Appeal - Hoshi Jussawalla

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

We are reaching out with an urgent request on behalf of Mrs. Maharukh Jussawalla, whose 61‑year‑old husband, Mr. Hoshi Jussawalla of Mumbai, is courageously battling stomach cancer.

In 2024, Mr. Jussawalla underwent major surgery in which both his stomach and gall bladder were removed. Since then, he has endured 23 chemotherapy sessions and 4 immunology injections in his fight for survival.

The financial toll has been devastating:

Total treatment cost so far: Rs. 6.8 million (≈ USD $78,000)
Insurance coverage used: Rs. 0.70 million
Family annual income: Rs. 1.2 million

With insurance exhausted and limited income, the family is now in severe financial distress. Mr. Jussawalla urgently requires continued medical care, and this is where our community can truly make a difference.

The ZSO humbly appeals to you to donate generously toward this urgent case.

All funds collected will be forwarded to the WZO US Region, who will ensure that assistance reaches the family promptly.

How You Can Help

Please make your donation by clicking on the button bellow and select “Donation Appeal - Hoshi Jussawalla”.
Kindly include your email address and phone number so we may provide you with a tax receipt.

Donate Now

Your support no matter the amount will bring hope and relief to a family facing extraordinary hardship. Together, we can uphold the spirit of compassion and solidarity that defines our community.

With heartfelt gratitude,

ZSO Board of Directors

NAMC - Ervad Soli P. Datur Scholarship Fund

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

World Zoroastrian Congress Singapore 2026

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT

World Zoroastrian Congress Singapore 2026

The Parsi Zoroastrian Association of South East Asia (PZAS) warmly welcomes the Canadian Zoroastrian community to attend the 13^th World Zoroastrian Congress.

Date: December 28-30, 2026

Venue: The iconic Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre

Event website: www.wzcsg26.com

Registrations open: Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 12 pm Singapore time (11 PM EST)

We also offer additional optional events like the World Zarathushti Chamber of Congress Annual Convention (Dec 26), a pre-Congress Youth Mixer for young adults (Dec 27) and a New Year’s Eve Party (Dec 31).

To stay updated on the Program, meet some of the fascinating speakers and receive announcements, please sign up for updates here. If you would like to participate in the Program as a speaker or panelist, pls fill this form.

Follow @WZCSG2026 on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube for fun videos, news updates and to check out what’s in store in Singapore. Join our WhatsApp community here.

The latest Singapore Highlights video on our YouTube channel showcases all that our delegates can look forward to. We hope to welcome many of you to WZC 2026.

Let’s #ROAR in Singapore!

Celebration of Life - Gool Bharda

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 15:30:00 GMT

University of Toronto - "Manuscripts and Miracles" By Shernaz Cama

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 18:00:00 GMT

"Manuscripts and Miracles: The Meherjirana Story"

Prof. Shernaz Cama
Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi

Friday, November 7, 2025, 1:00 p.m. EST

Zoom Registration Link:
https://utoronto.zoom.us/meeting/register/Tz9jK-hRRyCOEz66FvxbYg

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Support Farhang Pedram’s Recovery Today

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 04:00:00 GMT

We are reaching out with a heartfelt request to support Mr. Farhang Pedram, a senior citizen of our community, who recently suffered a severe stroke. On April 22, 2025, he collapsed at home and was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered bleeding in his brain. He has since been left partially paralyzed and unable to speak and walk or move his entire right side, requiring round-the-clock care.

His wife, Rebecca Lydia Pedram, is the sole earning member of the family, while their daughter is in university and working part-time. The family is doing everything they can, but the emotional and financial burden of long-term care is overwhelming.

This is where we, as a community, can come together. Your donation, no matter the amount, will go directly toward covering medical and care expenses for Mr. Farhang Pedram. Beyond financial help, your prayers, kindness, and words of encouragement mean the world to the family.

Donate Now

Kindly share this appeal with your friends or family so we can reach even more kindhearted supporters.

Together, we can ease the Pedram family’s burden and show them the strength of our Zoroastrian community.

With gratitude,
Helping Hands Committee

FEZANA & Turkish Airlines

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 19:35:44 GMT

FEZANA Announces a Deal with Turkish Airlines

✈️ New Travel Benefits for the FEZANA Community
FEZANA Announces Partnership with Turkish Airlines Corporate Club

FEZANA is delighted to announce a new partnership with Turkish Airlines Corporate Club, bringing exclusive travel benefits to our community. Members travelling on flights originating from North American cities can now enjoy special discounts and privileges with one of the world’s leading international airlines.

✨ Member Benefits

Special discounted fares on international flights
Complimentary extra baggage allowance on select routes
Greater ticket flexibility, including easier date changes
Access to Turkish Airlines’ extensive global network via Istanbul, connecting to 300+ destinations worldwide
Added conveniences for both business and personal travel

How to Book

All reservations must be made through:

Bomi Patel
BB Travel Experts LLC
(408) 264-4395
WhatsApp: +1 (408) 390 0750
bbtes9@gmail.com

Use the code FEZANA to unlock your exclusive savings and benefits.

Why It Matters

By booking through this program, you not only enjoy world-class perks but also help strengthen FEZANA’s partnerships—benefiting our entire community.

Book Your Travel Now

Celebration of Life - Dr. Katy Driver

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 17:00:00 GMT

2025 ZSO Scholarship for Graduated High School Students

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 13:00:00 GMT

Attention high school graduates, the application process for the Annual ZSO Academic and Community Service Excellence Award for High School Students Scholarship is now open for 2025.

The deadline for receiving completed applications this year is Monday, July 21, 2025. All pertinent details are in the application form.

Good luck to all the applicants.

2025 ZSO Scholarship Application

2025 FEZANA Scholarships Applications Open

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The FEZANA Scholarship Program was started in 1998 to recognize academic excellence and provide Zarathushti students in university programs financial assistance to study at institutions in the U.S and Canada. Each year, FEZANA gives nearly $100,000 of scholarships in various areas. We currently offer scholarships for undergraduate studies, graduate studies, performing and creative arts, fine arts, and culinary arts, religious education and trade school.

The application portal for all scholarships is open now and closes on July 15th. Scholarships are awarded for the upcoming academic year.

Our scholarship program is supported by generous donors. If you would like to contribute to the Scholarship Fund, please visit our Scholarship Donation page.

If you would like to inquire about endowing a scholarship, please reach out to the FEZANA Fundraising Committee at fundraising@fezana.org

Apply Now

ZEDF Scholarship

for Studies with a major or focus in Entrepreneurship

ZEDF is now accepting applications for funding of a ZEDF Scholar interested in pursuing graduate studies leading to a Master’s degree with a major or focus in Entrepreneurship from a recognized accredited university.

Apply on the ZEDF Website

OZCF - 17th Annual Cricket Dhansak - July 13

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 15:00:00 GMT

The OZCF presents the 17th Annual Cricket Dhansak.

Join the Ontario Zoroastrian Resource Guide – Deadline July 10th

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 04:00:00 GMT

We are calling on all Zoroastrian business owners to be part of the Ontario Zoroastrian Resource Guide. Our goal is to connect our members to Zoroastrian-run businesses, including real estate agents, lawyers, accounting advisors, caterers, home inspectors, and more.

Additionally, if you have a place where members of our community can stay for a few nights, please fill out the Accommodation Form as well.

To view the current guide, click here:
Ontario Zoroastrian Resource Guide (PDF)

To participate in this project, please fill out one or both of the forms below. Your positive response to this initiative is greatly appreciated!

Deadline to be included in the 2025 Printed Edition: July 10th, 2025

Business Owners & Professionals Form
https://www.zso.org/page-18190
Accommodation Host Form
https://www.zso.org/page-18191

Once we have compiled all submissions, we will share the updated guide with the community via email, newsletter, and printed copies. We appreciate your support and welcome your feedback.

Important Information:

By filling out a form, you consent to having your information publicly displayed in the resource guide.
If you have any questions, email us at youth@zso.org or call Nasha Makujina at (647) 231-2240.
You may opt out at any time by emailing us and stating that you no longer wish to participate.

Thank you for your participation and support.

Warm regards,

Resource Guide Project
Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO)

ZSA - 32nd Maanthra Avesta Recitation and Gatha Studies Gathering

Mon, 19 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

The Zorastrion Students Association

Call for Participation: 32nd Maanthra Avesta Recitation and Gatha Studies Gathering

The Zoroastrian Students' Association is pleased to announce that the Call for Participation and Regulations for the 32nd Maanthra Avesta Recitation and Gatha Studies Gathering have been released!

Zoroastrians living abroad are encouraged to review the official call to familiarize themselves with the Avesta Recitation and Gatha Studies sections.

This year’s gathering will take place online from September 2 to 4, exclusively for participants residing outside of Iran.

Registration Details

Registration for the Avesta Recitation and Gatha Studies sections will be open from May 9 to May 19.

If you are between 10 and 13 years old and wish to participate in Maanthra 32, please send a message to kanoun@zso.org.

Please note: The registration deadline will not be extended under any circumstances.

We warmly invite Zoroastrians around the world to participate and enrich this gathering with their presence and support. Your participation will be a true honor for this event!

WZCC & FEZANA Gala Night with WZCC AWARDS

Sat, 03 May 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Join us on May 3, 2025, for an unforgettable evening celebrating the creativity and excellence of our global Zoroastrian communit.

Enjoy live performances by:

Ardavan Taraporewala – Accomplished baritone and actor who has performed around the world, from the Parliament of World Religions to Neptune Theatre in Halifax.
Tara Jamshidian – Award-winning American soprano praised for her operatic roles with The Met Guild, Heartbeat Opera, and New Jersey Opera Theater.

Behram Hathi – Classically trained violinist with 18 years of experience, who has performed with the Australian World Orchestra and Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra.

Meher Pavri – Parsi-Canadian soprano and versatile performer with credits across opera, musical theatre, and international stages.

Zane Commissariat – Accomplished jazz pianist and ZYNA leader, heading to USC to study Global Health and perform with the Spirit of Troy Marching Band.

Register Now

WZCC - Zoroastrian Networking Mixer In Toronto - You're Invited!

Thu, 01 May 2025 23:30:00 GMT

WZCC Presents

After Hours

Join us on Thursday, May 1st, 2025 for an exclusive evening of networking during the week of the FEZANA Annual General Meeting and WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025. This special event is tailored for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and students eager to connect with Zoroastrian leaders, innovators, and changemakers coming from around the world.

Whether you're building your career, scaling your business, or seeking mentorship and community, this evening is a unique opportunity to expand your network and engage with inspiring individuals who are shaping the future.

Don't wait, secure your spot today:

Register Now

️ Spots are limited — registration closes April 24th

You do not need to be registered for the AGM or Conclave to attend, this event is open to all.

We can't wait to welcome you.

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 Updates

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:06:00 GMT

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 Schedule

The Schedule for the WZCC Toronto Conclave, entailing minute-by minute updates of the sessions taking place throughout the conclave is out now. To view and save your copy of the schedule, click here

Businesses featuring in the Tiger's Den competition

After receiving an overwhelming response from Zoro businesses across the globe, we have the finalists ready to pitch their ideas to the amazing audience and panel of investors. To know more about the businesses featuring in the Tiger's Den competition, click here

Gala Night with WZCC Awards

The Gala Night is scheduled to take place on Saturday 3rd May at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel where the best of best from the Zoro Community will gather for an unforgettable evening of networking, business discussions and entertainment followed by mouth-watering delicacies. To view more information on the happening of the Gala Night, click here

If you yet haven't bought your tickets, don't delay as we are nearly sold out. Visit our ticketing platform to buy your tickets now. We are sure you do not want to miss out on attending an unforgettable conclave.

Have Questions:

Email us at: torontoconclave2025@gmail.com

Connect with us on our social media platforms:

Facebook: @wzcc.toronto
Instagram: @wzcctoronto

Best Regards

The WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 Team

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 - Speakers Gracing The Stage

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:05:00 GMT

The stage is set for the vibrant city of Toronto to host the biggest event of WZCC:

The WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025

Scheduled to take place from April 29th-May 3rd 2025. As our team is gearing up to welcome you all, the spots are filling up fast and we are sure you do not want to miss out on this magical experience of networking with some of the high profile individuals of the entrepreneurial world. Buy your tickets now from our ticketing platform to guarantee your spot at the WZCC Toronto Conclave.

Buy Your Tickets Now

Keeping up with the excitement, we are proud to announce the first set of amazing speakers that will dazzle the stage with their inspirational journey and eye-opening experiences.

Hear how Ronnie Irani, (USA) CEO of RKI Energy Resources LLC, founded his own oil company and, in a decade, struck oil-or should we say gold-by selling RKI in three tranches in 2015 for $3.5 billion in this exclusive fireside chat with Ronnie and Edul Daver. Learn from Ronnie’s inspiring journey, from his lifetime achievement and Oklahoma Hall of Fame Awards to creating the Ronnie K Irani Center for Energy Solutions, RKI Center for Creation of Economic Wealth, and RKI Center for Data Analytics and Al.

Through a powerful keynote, Firdaus Kharas (CANADA) who was awarded Canada's highest honor of the "ORDER OF CANADA" will share 12 impactful takeaways from his extraordinary journey.
Expect eye-opening insights, inspiring anecdotes, and practical lessons on how each of us can shape a better world.
If you believe in making a difference, this is a talk you can’t afford to miss!
From witnessing the struggles of refugees as a child in India to working alongside his mother in Mother Teresa's Home for the Dying, Firdaus' life has been shaped by one core belief: Every human deserves dignity.
A pioneer in behavioral change communication, he’s tackled global challenges—HIV/AIDS, domestic violence, and poverty—through innovative media, including award-winning animated campaigns. His work transcends borders, languages, and cultures, proving that purpose-driven storytelling can spark real change.

Zerbanoo Gifford, (UNITED KINGDOM), founder of The ASHA Centre is celebrated for her decades of commitment to humanitarian work. From starting small by making a difference within her local community to driving significant change on an international scale, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that meaningful change begins with small, purposeful actions and that business or entrepreneurial work can be a powerful force for the greater good.
What the WZCC TORONTO CONCLAVE 2025 means to Zerbanoo:
“Carrying the renowned spirit of Zoroastrian social entrepreneurship in all we are.”

Elliott Penner (CANADA), the former President of French's Food Company: His take on Delivering GOOD While Building GREAT Businesses
From driving French’s Food Company to unprecedented global growth to founding The For Good Foundation, which has shipped over $50 million worth of food to Canadian food banks, Elliott Penner proves that business success and social impact go hand in hand.
Hear how his leadership turned Franks RedHot into the #1 hot sauce in the world and how his commitment to local farmers and communities sparked real change—feeding millions and inspiring businesses to do more GOOD.

Mervon Mehta (CANADA) is the Executive Director, Performing Arts at The Royal Conservatory of Music.
Son of singer Carmen and conductor Zubin Mehta, Mervon has continued his family's musical legacy and will be discussing the key aspects of the business side of things in the world of performing arts.

With over 50 years of experience in marketing and advertising, Sam Balsara (INDIA), Chairman of Madison World, is one of India’s most influential media leaders — ranked by The Economic Times for 11 consecutive years.
As its Chairman, through Madison World, India’s largest independent communications group, Sam has shaped the landscape of the industry and led countless organizations to success.
In this exclusive keynote, Sam will challenge the way we view success — revealing why happiness is not the result of success, but the key to unlocking it.

Mickey Mehta (INDIA) is the ambassador for the FIT India Movement
India’s leading holistic health guru, fitness expert, and motivational speaker, With over four decades of experience, he has trained Bollywood celebrities, top business leaders, and even the Mumbai Police.
As the founder of Mickey Mehta’s 360 Degree Wellness Temples, he has revolutionized holistic health through yoga, meditation, and lifestyle coaching. His expertise has been featured in books, radio shows, and collaborations with global brands.

Have Questions:

Email us at: torontoconclave2025@gmail.com
Contact us on our toll free number: 1-888-969-5150

Connect with us on our social media platforms:
Facebook: @wzcc.toronto
Instagram: @wzcctoronto

Best Regards,

The WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 Team

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 - Limited Time Offer

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:04:00 GMT

The WZCC Toronto Conclave is excited to present a never before seen offer, one that is simply unmissable:

Bring 7 People & Pay only CAD 100 per person per day including the dazzling Gala Dinner & Awards Night

Gather a group of 7 friends/family and pay only $300 per person for the Conclave Trifecta—featuring the WZCC Toronto Conclave + the FEZANA Joint Awards Gala. That’s just $100 per day per person.

This limited-time group rate gives you access to:

Day 1 – April 29th
Day 2 – April 30th
The Grand Gala Dinner & Awards Night – May 3rd

Bought your ticket already and think you can gather 7 more people? Email us at torontoconclave2025@gmail.com to get your ticket adjusted.

Offer ends March 31st – Secure your spots before it’s gone!

To secure this special group rate, select Group Registration to unlock this special pricing:

Register Now

*Have Questions*

Email us at: torontoconclave2025@gmail.com

Connect with us on our social media platforms:

Facebook: @wzcc.toronto
Instagram: @wzcctoronto

Best Regards
The WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 Team

WZCC Conclave 2025: Speaker's Line-up Update

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:03:00 GMT

The WZCC Toronto Chapter would like to welcome you all to the 2025 WZCC Conclave to be held in Toronto from April 29th to May 3rd, 2025.

WZCC TORONTO CONCLAVE 2025 SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT ON

MERVON MEHTA

Mervon Mehta is the Executive Director, Performing Arts at The Royal Conservatory of Music.

Son of singer Carmen and conductor Zubin Mehta, Mervon has continued his family's musical legacy.

We are so excited to have him as our speaker and learn more about the business side of performing arts!

WZCC TORONTO CONCLAVE 2025 SPEAKER SPOTLIGHT ON

SAM BALSARA

With over 50 years of experience in marketing and advertising, Sam Balsara is one of India’s most influential media leaders — ranked by The Economic Times for 11 consecutive years.

As Chairman of Madison World, India’s largest independent communications group, Sam has shaped the landscape of the industry and led countless organizations to success.

In this exclusive keynote, Sam will challenge the way we view success — revealing why happiness is not the result of success, but the key to unlocking it.

Don’t miss this chance to gain invaluable insights on how happiness can drive both personal and organizational success.

Save the date — let’s reimagine success together!

Get your tickets now to meet them at the WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025

Register Now

To become a Sponsor for any part of the Conclave please click below:

Become A Sponser

*Questions?*

Email us at: torontoconclave2025@gmail.com

Toll Free Number: 1-888-969-5150

WZCC Conclave 2025: Speaker's Line-up

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:02:00 GMT

The WZCC Toronto Chapter would like to welcome you all to the 2025 WZCC Conclave to be held in Toronto from April 29th to May 3rd, 2025.

MEET THE WZCC TORONTO CONCLAVE 2025 HONORARY AWARDEE

Zerbanoo Gifford, celebrated for her decades of commitment to humanitarian work, is an author and the founder of The ASHA Centre.

From starting small by making a difference within her local community to driving significant change on an international scale, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that meaningful change begins with small, purposeful actions and that business or entrepreneurial work can be a powerful force for the greater good.

What the WZCC TORONTO CONCLAVE 2025 means to Zerbanoo: “Carrying the renowned spirit of Zoroastrian social entrepreneurship in all we are.”

Register Now

FIRESIDE CHAT WITH RONNIE IRANI & EDUL DAVER

Hear how Ronnie Irani, CEO of RKI Energy Resources LLC, founded his own oil company and, in a decade, struck oil-or should we say gold-by selling RKI in three tranches in 2015 for $3.5 billion!

Learn from Ronnie’s inspiring journey, from his lifetime achievement and Oklahoma Hall of Fame Awards to creating the Ronnie K Irani Center for Energy Solutions, RKI Center for Creation of Economic Wealth, and RKI Center for Data Analytics and Al.

Don’t miss this chance to network with high-profile business leaders!

Register Now

To become a Sponsor for any part of the Conclave please click below:

Become A Sponser

Thanking you,

WZCC Conclave Team.

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025: Registration Now Open!

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:01:00 GMT

WZCC Conclave Toronto Conclave 2025 Registrations Now Open

Connect with High Net-Worth and Influential Zoroastrians at the World Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce Conclave, April 29th - May 3rd in Toronto. Secure Your Spot!

What to expect at this Conclave?

Global lineup of speakers, panelists will talk about how they ensure that their health – ultimately drives their business wealth!
Leadership excellence with interactive sessions on how icons leverage dopamine, neuroplasticity to bounce back stronger from set-backs. A roadmap to making smarter decisions in high pressure situations
“Tiger’s Den” will have mentors who will invest time and funds in our community enterprises, regardless of the business size.
Explore Canada’s iconic sights, enjoy cultural activities, and celebrate at the Gala Awards Night.

From witnessing the struggles of refugees as a child in India to working alongside his mother in Mother Teresa’s Home for the Dying, Firdaus’s life has been shaped by one core belief: Every human deserves dignity.
A pioneer in behavioral change communication, he’s tackled global challenges—HIV/AIDS, domestic violence, and poverty—through innovative media, including award-winning animated campaigns. His work transcends borders, languages, and cultures, proving that purpose-driven storytelling can spark real change.

Register Now

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 - Sponsorship

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:00:00 GMT

Invitation for Sponsorship

The WZCC Toronto Chapter is inviting Zoroastrian businesses and professionals to partner with us as a sponsor for the upcoming Toronto Conclave on April 29th - May 3rd, 2025. This event brings together Zoroastrian industry leaders, professionals, youth enthusiasts, and we believe your participation would greatly enhance the experience.

The conclave aims to bring like-minded business owners, professionals and entrepreneurs of all ages and backgrounds together to share their experiences, foster networking and have panelists to discuss today’s hot topics in the world of business and enterprise. This conclave presents an excellent opportunity for your business to gain visibility and network with a diverse audience.

We are offering several sponsorship levels, each with unique benefits:

Description	Tier	Amount
Official Conclave Sponsorship + Logo on Polo Shirt and swag + Advertisement + Banner + 4 Complimentary Conclave Trifecta Tickets	Official / Title	$10,000
Advertisement + Banner + Logo on and swag bag + 2 Complimentary Conclave Trifecta Tickets	Diamond	$7,500
Conclave Event Sponsor + Logo on and swag bag + Advertisement + Banner + 1 Complimentary Conclave Trifecta Ticket	Platinum	$5,000
Advertisement + Banner + Logo on and swag bag + 2 Complimentary Conclave Gala Tickets	Gold	$2,500
Advertisement + Banner + Sponsor any meal (Lunch/Dinner) at the Conclave	Titanium	$1,000
Medium Advertisement + Banner	Silver	$500
Small Advertisement + Banner	Bronze	$250

By sponsoring the Toronto Conclave 2025, you will not only showcase your commitment to the global Zoroastrian entrepreneurship community, but also promote your brand to a targeted audience. We are also looking to subsidize rates to maximize youth participation and reduce costs for foreign delegates willing to attend.

To proceed paying for your sponsorship, please click here to be directed to our Sponsorship page.

You will be asked to provide your business/professional logo to our Toronto Conclave 2025 team on done.

Warm regards,

WZCC Toronto Chapter - Sponsorship Team

Email: TorontoConclave2025@gmail.com

Phone: 1-888-969-5150

NAMC - Join us for Humbandagi Prayers for Ervad. Jal Panthaky

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 00:00:00 GMT

The North American Mobeds Council invites you to join us in a Humbandagi (communal prayer) for the speedy recovery of our esteemed Ervad Jal Panthaky and his return to his devoted service for the advancement of Zoroastrianism.

Date: Monday, April 14, 2025
Time: 8PM EST / 5PM PST

Click below to join the Microsoft Teams Meeting for Humbandagi Prayers:

Join Humbandagi Prayers

Join using the meeting ID and Passcode here:

https://www.microsoft.com/en-ca/microsoft-teams/join-a-meeting
Meeting ID: 237 914 270 631 7
Passcode: zH7pj2Fa

The link for this prayer is also published on our namcmobeds.org website.

American Zoroastrian Society Logo Design Contest

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 05:00:00 GMT

Calling Zoroastrian Aspiring Designers

The American Zoroastrian Society is seeking a creative and meaningful logo design that reflects our mission and values.

Submission Deadline: March 1, 2025

Email Entries to: Contact@AmZSociety.org

Winning Prize: $300.00

Winner Announcement: March 7, 2025

About American Zoroastrian Society:

The American Zoroastrian Society is a nonprofit organization aimed at sharing the universality of Zoroastrian philosophy per the Gathas and creating a welcoming community for all. We want our organization to embody ideas of enlightenment, cooperative growth, and pluralism.

Design Guidelines:

Zoroastrian fire should be the central element.

The logo should include our full name: “American Zoroastrian Society”

The logo should have no more than 2-3 colors and please avoid gradients.

Each designer is welcome to submit up to three different design variations.

We seek a modern, inclusive design that represents Zoroastrians of diverse ethnic backgrounds in America.

We’d like the logo to embrace core American ideas of enlightenment, freedom, inclusive pluralism, and social justice, but please avoid overtly nationalistic symbols such as the American flag or the Statue of Liberty.

OZCF - Exciting News: A Heartfelt Donation for the Atashkadeh Project!

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 22:36:46 GMT

OZCF - Ash Collection

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 22:36:17 GMT

American Zoroastrian Society - Zoroastrian Diversity and a Culture of Resilience and Creativity In Modern America

Sat, 22 Feb 2025 17:00:00 GMT

Join Us on Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8930738383?pwd=MqdyqUrJcqLF5Frwj9B6kwEWahk3Pg.1&omn=81616026714

Meeting ID: 893 073 8383
Passcode: AmZSociety

About American Zoroastrian Society:

The American Zoroastrian Society (AZS) is registered as a 501(c)(3) tax
exempt organization on August 14,2024. It has been established by a
group of individuals dedicated to promoting the universal and inclusive
message of Zarathushtra as conveyed in the Gathas. As more individuals
discover his teachings, the need for a welcoming community that provides
primary education and fosters acceptance becomes increasingly evident.
Such an organization is currently needed in North America. Our goal is
to collaborate with other Zoroastrian organizations and communities to
make Zarathushtra's message accessible to all who seek it.

Website: http://www.amzsociety.org
Email: contact@amzsociety.org

About the Speaker:

Dr. Anne Khademian is a Zoroastrian by choice, and served as the
president of the ZAMWI Board of Trustees from 2017 to 2021 and as an
Avesta Class teacher and coordinator for many years before she was
elected to the Board. She is the Executive Director of the Universities
at Shady Grove, an innovative campus in the University System of
Maryland supporting pathways for all students to accessible and
affordable higher education and high demand career opportunities. Prior
to joining the University System of Maryland, Anne served as the
Director of Virginia Tech's School of Public and International Affairs,
and as a Fellow with the Virginia Tech Office of the President,
responsible for advancing strategic initiatives. Her research and
published work focuses on the practice of inclusive management,
understanding and managing organizational culture, and organizational
change. Anne is the chair of the Board of Directors for Montgomery
County Maryland’s Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the Board for the
County’s Economic Development Corporation. She is a fellow with the
National Academy of Public Administration, and was inducted to the
Michigan State University Athletic Hall of Fame for cross country in
2016.

Abstract:

Cultures and communities that survive and thrive have characteristics
and practices that build resilience, and a capacity for creativity to
continuously flex and adapt in a dynamic world. This talk explores the
diversity of ideas and experience as a robust part of any resilient and
creative culture, and extends the exploration to our Zoroastrian
community and culture in America today. While I have studied and written
about culture in my professional life, I am not a scholar of the
Zoroastrian faith, the Gathas, or the expansive and sweeping history of
Zoroastrianism. I am instead a member of my Zoroastrian community for
more than two decades. In this talk, I will draw on my experience
becoming a member of the Zoroastrian Community and my experience with
the Washington, DC community that welcomed me and my family, and focus
on the powerful core concepts that drew me to the faith on my own. These
core concepts, I believe are the key, if practiced, to a resilient,
creative, and thriving Zoroastrian culture and community in North
America.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact us.

Thank you,

Artemis Javanshir
American Zoroastrian Society
contact@amzsociety.org

You're Invited! Join ZOROBIZ CONNECT's First-Ever Networking Mixer

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ZOROBIZ CONNECT welcomes you to its first-ever event, in association with ZSOYOUTH and the WZCC (World Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce) Toronto Chapter!

About ZOROBIZ CONNECT:

Introducing ZOROBIZ CONNECT—a dynamic business community designed to bring Zoroastrian professionals together through vibrant and engaging networking mixers. Our goal is to create a space where like-minded individuals can connect, collaborate, and thrive. Through meaningful networking opportunities, we aim to foster innovation, professional growth, and lasting relationships that contribute to the success of both our members and the broader Zoroastrian community.

Join Us for Our First Networking Mixer!

A casual yet impactful networking event for Zoroastrian professionals in the GTA, hosted in the heart of Toronto!

Date: February 20th, 2025 - 7 - 9 pm
Event Address: One Eyed Jack Restaurant and Bar (Private Event Venue)
Price: $30
Buffet Style Dining
Vegan Options
Pay at the Bar Option Available
Mandatory RSVP and Payment Before the Event (16+ Event)

RSVP & Payment Details:

This is a 16+ event, and RSVP with advance payment is mandatory.

RSVP Here

After completing the form, send your e-transfer to zoroyouthevents@gmail.com to confirm your spot.

Questions? Contact Yarnie Shahparast at (905) 703-7222.

We can't wait to see you on February 20th!

OZCF - Curbside Meal Pickup - March 2, 2025

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 05:00:00 GMT

NAMC - Online Lecture: Zarthosti Response to Health and Other Challenges of Life

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 19:00:00 GMT

WZCC-WE: Webinar - Empowering Yourself at the Workplace

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Topic: WZCC-WE Global Webinar

Time: Dec 1, 2024 09:00 AM EST

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 834 0190 3669

Passcode: WZCC-WE

University of Toronto - The Ruttonjee Family of Hong Kong Seminar

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 15:00:00 GMT

I’m excited to share that Carl Law, author of The Rutonjees, will be giving a talk at the University of Toronto Library on November 16th at 10 AM. He will be discussing the fascinating story of the Hong Kong Parsi family and their unique history.

Don’t miss this opportunity! Please register in advance and RSVP by emailing:

chk.library@utoronto.ca

FEZANA Religion Education Committee Presents: "Courts and Estates of Achaemenid Royal Women"

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 15:00:00 GMT

Zoom Meeting Details

Time: Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 11 am EDT

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88973121567?pwd=BXa7bMxWtuhhsNS1L2A4Rbn583FJN7.1

Meeting ID: 889 7312 1567
Passcode: FEZANA

Zoroastrian Matching Retreat

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Zoroastrian Singles and Love Story bring you a Zoroastrian Match Making Retreat in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA from November 16-19, 2024. We have made it affordable for all to attend.

If you are interested in carpooling from Toronto to Michigan, please contact Afreed Mistry (afreed.mistry@gmail.com or 416-302-9754).

There are limited spots available for the retreat due to venue limitations so please sign up early!

For more details and application click on the image below:

Ontario Zoroastrian Resource Guide Now Available to All ZSO Members!

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 04:27:24 GMT

We are excited to share the Ontario Zoroastrian Resource Guide, a directory featuring businesses, professionals, and generous individuals within our community offering their homes for support.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the guide by filling out the form and offering their services or hospitality!

If you have any questions, feedback, or would like to contribute to future editions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at youth@zso.org.

Ontario Resource Guide

ZSO Resource Guide: Final Call for Submissions

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 23:20:04 GMT

Thank you to everyone who took the time to share and fill out our ZSO Resource Guide, we have received an overwhelming 40 responses, and wanted to ensure no one was missed!

Our youth at ZSO have aimed to build this resource guide that can be easily accessed by all community members, supporting both local businesses and individuals seeking professional expertise.

We are also gathering information on individuals willing to accommodate newcomers in their homes or those with leads on available accommodations. This effort is part of our broader goal to support each other, find employment opportunities, and ensure everyone has a place to stay.

To participate in this project, please fill out the forms below. You are welcome to fill out either one of these forms or both if you wish. Your positive response to this initiative is greatly appreciated.

If you own a business or are a business professional please fill out this form:

Businesses / Professionals Form

If you are able to host a Zoroastrian for a week or more - please fill out this form:

Accommodation Form

After we have compiled our list, we will soon be sharing this in our resource guide with the community via email, newsletter and physical copies. We look forward to your support and feedback.

Important Information:

Your information will be included in a resource guide, and by filling out the form, you consent to publicly displaying your information

If you have any questions about this project, please email us at youth@zso.org or call Nasha Makujina at (647) 231-2240

You can opt out of this program at any time by emailing youth@zso.org and stating your wish to no longer participate

Thank you for your participation and support.

Warm regards,

Newcomers Project
Fravash Chothia, Kaizad Damania, Nasha Makujina, Arish Sanjana and Zane Tengra

Applications Open for FEZANA Scholarships 2024 - 2025

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:00:00 GMT

FEZANA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

Applications are invited by the FEZANA Scholarship Program for the 2024-25 competition cycle for the following

ENDOWED AND FEZANA ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS
Endowed and FEZANA Scholarships for the Creative Arts
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP
FEZANA Community Service Award

All academic scholarships are open to Zarathushti applicants who have obtained admission for attendance at institutions of higher learning (accredited degree-granting colleges or universities) in the USA or Canada. Students from overseas must have studied in the US or Canada for at least two semesters before applying. Creative arts scholarships are available to any Zarathushti applicant who is pursuing a program in the creative arts (performing arts, fine arts, culinary arts, etc.).

AWARD CRITERIA—Graduate applicants will be rated on Scholastic Achievement, Extracurricular Activities, and Community Service. Undergraduate applicants will be rated on Scholastic Achievement, Financial Need, Extracurricular Activities, and Community Service.

Scholarships will be awarded in September 2024. Closing Date for receiving application July 31, 2024.

For applications visit https://fezana.org/scholarships/online-application/

The Zoroastrian Entrepreneurship Development Foundation (ZEDF) graduate scholarships . Please visit https://zedf.org/ to learn more.

Apply For FEZANA SCHOLARSHIPS

2024 ZSO Scholarship for Graduated High School Students

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Attention high school graduates, the application process for the Annual ZSO Academic and Community Service Excellence Award for High School Students Scholarship is now open for 2024.

The deadline for receiving completed applications this year is Monday, July 22, 2024. All pertinent details are in the application form.

Good luck to all the applicants.

2024 ZSO Scholarship Application

Creating a Resource Guide of Zoroastrian Businesses and Accommodations in Ontario

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 23:54:03 GMT

The ZSO Youth comittee are working on compiling a comprehensive list of Zoroastrian owned businesses and professionals within our community. We aim to create a resource guide that can be easily accessed by all community members, supporting both local businesses and individuals seeking professional expertise.

If you own a business or are a business professional please fill out this form:

Businesses / Professionals Form

If you are able to host a Zoroastrian for a week or more, please fill out this form:

Accommodation Form

After we have compiled our list, we will be sharing this in our resource guide with the community via email, newsletter and physical copies. We look forward to your support and feedback.

Important Information:

Your information will be included in a resource guide, and by filling out the form, you consent to publicly displaying your information.

If you have any questions about this project, please email us at youth@zso.org or call Nasha Makujina at (647) 231-2240

You can opt out of this program at any time by emailing youth@zso.org and stating your wish to no longer participate.

Thank you for your participation and support.

Warm regards,

Newcomers Project Committee
Fravash Chothia, Kaizad Damania, Nasha Makujina, Arish Sanjana & Zane Tengra

FIRES - 2nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize: Applications Invited

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 04:00:00 GMT

2^nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize

Applications Invited

Announcement: 2^nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize.

We are thrilled to announce the call for submission for the 2^nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize, a prestigious award named in honor of the renowned Pakistani- American novelist, Bapsi Sidhwa. This biennial award promotes fiction by Zoroastrian authors and honors the legacy of Bapsi Sidhwa, the first recognized Zoroastrian author from Pakistan.

Eligibility:

The Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize will be granted to writers of fiction, accepting novels and collections of short stories.
Open to Zoroastrian authors aged 18 years and above.
Each submission must be the original work of a single author.
Co-authored books, edited books, anthologies and self-published books are not eligible.
Submissions should be in English and must be first editions.
Works must be published between January 2022 and April 2024.

Submission Period:

Submissions should include a completed Application Form.
A hard copy and a digital copy is required. The digital copy will be sent electronically to the judges. The hard copy will be added to the FIRES library collection.
The submission deadline is June 1, 2024 for the 2024 award.

Submission Process:

Fill out the online application form below.
Hard copies must be sent or delivered to FIRES/ZAH at 526 Woodbend Lane, Houston, Texas 77079.
Digital copy should be sent to info@fires-fezna.org
For any questions, contact aban@coatingindustries.com

Prize:

The winner of the 2nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize will receive US$ 2000, a trophy, and the opportunity to showcase their work at the 18th North American Zoroastrian Congress in Houston, Texas, in December 2024.
Finalists and winner will be announced at the FEZANA Awards ceremony at the 18th North American Congress. The winner is encouraged to attend or delegate a representative to accept the prize.

Selection and Adjudication:

A panel of judges will select finalists and choose the winner.
The organizer and judges are not responsible for plagiarism issues among finalists.
In case of insufficient entries, the prize will not be assigned.
The decision of the finalists and winner is final.

Background and history:

The Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize is established by the Library Committee of the Zoroastrian Association of Houston (ZAH), home of the FEZANA Information Research and Education System (FIRES).
FIRES is a centralized collection of materials related to Zarathushti faith, culture and history.
The Prize honors and promotes the work of Zoroastrian writers in line with Bapsi Sidhwa’s legacy.
Named after the first recognized Zoroastrian writer from Pakistan, Bapsi Sidhwa, the Prize aims to recognize literary works biennially.

We look forward to receiving your submissions and celebrating the rich tapestry of Zoroastrian literature in honor of Bapsi Sidhwa.

Apply Now

FEZANA Information, Research and Education System (FIRES) is a centralized collection of books, manuscripts, literature, magazines, and scholarly research materials in print and electronic form, primarily pertaining to Zarathushti faith, culture, and history.

FIRES was established in 2010, and is housed and managed by the Zoroastrian Association of Houston (ZAH) Library. It is accessible by all FEZANA Associations and individuals.

Mosaic Interfaith - "Strength & Resilience"

Wed, 01 May 2024 23:30:00 GMT

Register Here

SOAS - Shapoorji Pallonji Institute Scholarships 2024

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 04:00:00 GMT

Scholarships 2024
Deadline 30th April 2024

Applications for the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship are now open for MA and MPhil/PhD students. Students approaching Zoroastrianism from a variety of different disciplinary backgrounds, such as historical, linguistic, or study of religions, are all invited to apply.

The deadline for applications is April 30th, 2024. Find more information and details on eligible programs, follow this link: Shapoorji Pallonji scholarships | SOAS

For enquiries, please email scholarships@soas.ac.uk and you can sign up to our mailing list to see all opportunities the Institute has to offer.

Hear from last year's scholars

Arish Dastur

"As I approach the end of the third year of my PhD, I offer my most sincere gratitude to the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarships for helping enable this wonderful journey. My PhD thesis Imagination and Meaning in the Zoroastrian Yašts is progressing very well. The third year of my PhD has been rich and productive, and a majority of the writing that shall be shaped into my final thesis has been completed. I shall use the fourth year of my PhD to finesse and finalise my thesis, and I am on schedule to submit it for examination on 15 July 2024."

Shiruy Billimoria

"I was grew up in Bombay (Mumbai), to a working-class Parsi Zoroastrian family where the tenets of our religion – Good Thoughts, Good Words and Good Deeds, were deeply embedded into my personality due to the rigorous efforts of my parents, and later on my teachers. It is no exaggeration to state that I simply would not have been able to attend SOAS if it was not for the Shapoorji Pallonji Scholarship - without the scholarship there would be no MA for me. It gave me the opportunity that I had been working towards for a very long time to fully focus on my studies during the entirety of the year."

Visit our website to find out more about the Institute.

SOAS, University of London
Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square
London WC1H 0XG
Tel: +44 (0)207 074 5146
Email: SSPIZS@soas.ac.uk

NAMC - Atash nu Parab Celebration via YouTube

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Atash nu Parab Celebration

(Day Dedicated to Holy Fire)

Saturday, April 20^th, 2024, at 10:00 AM Eastern Time

Join us at https://www.namcmobeds.org/

Get ready to ignite your spirit and join us for a special YouTube premiere celebration on Saturday, April 20th, at 10 AM EST.

We will be celebrating Atash nu Parab (the Day of Holy Fire) with the recital of Atash Niyaesh and Tandarosti.

The prayer text and translation will be displayed side by side for all of us to understand the meaning of our prayers.

The prayers are recited in sync by Ervad. Mehbad Dastur and his son Ervad. Xersis Dastur from the Mehraban Guiv Darbe Mehr, Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO) in Toronto, Canada.

This will be followed by the NAMC IZS audio podcast on "Adar Yazad" by Brigadier Ervad. Behram Panthaki.

We invite people of all faiths to unite and celebrate with us.

Please mark your calendars and prepare to be inspired as we commemorate this special occasion.

Join us as we light up the environment with joy, harmony, and the spirit of unity.

North American Mobeds Council

https://www.namcmobeds.org/

FEZANA - Urgent Medical Appeal for A Kidney Donor=

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 04:00:00 GMT

URGENT APPEAL FOR A KIDNEY DONOR FOR A YOUNG PARSI LADY: BLOOD GROUP “O”

The following is a Medical Appeal to North American Zarathustis shared with FEZANA by Shahrukh Marfatia for his daughter who lives in Calgary.

Shahrukh writes:

It has been four years since my ﬁrst appeal for a potential donor for my daughter who suffers from Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Sadly, Covid stalled everything, and we could only pick up the donor search again in the past year or so. We did find a donor who registered with the Calgary Hospital Admin Transplant Centre. We were very hopeful that our daughter’s kidney transplant would have been done by now and that she would be leading a good, normal, quality life with her husband and her young boys.

After all the tests and anxious waiting, we were informed a few months back, that the donor is an incompatible match for my daughter which could lead to a rejection of the donor kidney.

Hence, my daughterand the donor were entered into the Canadian National program called the Paired Exchange Program (PEP). This is an option that matches incompatible donor-recipient pairs with other pairs, and they exchange’ donors. Unfortunately, we have now been informed in the February matching round (there are only three/four yearly) that they could not find a suitable donor for my daughter from the PEP. We are therefore, again, making all efforts to find a direct matching donor for my daughter.

My daughter’s blood group is “O” and we appeal now for American and Canadian donors who are blood group “O” as well. She will be 40 this year and has twin boys who are now 7 years old.Managing family and with her even more declining health situation, as you can imagine, is tough on her. Her key CKD markers like GFR are now at the final stage - 5.

My family, and I would be so, so grateful if you can consider my appeal to be a donor for my daughter. I know that this requires a tremendous sacrifice on the part of a donor, and we will be very, very thankful for this gift of life to my daughter with your altruistic, selfless act. Please also share this appeal with your friends and communities where you feel this would be appropriate.

I hasten to add that all admissible expenses for medical and if needed travel and accommodation expenses will be paid for, in accordance with the health system guidelines in the US and Canada. The plan would be, if a matching donor was found from this appeal, in Canada, then the potential donor would be referred to the Calgary Transplant Centre. For the US potential donor, the transplant surgery would take place in the US. We are currently exploring a couple of transplant hospitals on the East Coast.

If any of you would be so kindly interested, please do email me at: kmsdonorreplies@hotmail.com and once I hear from you I willbe happy to put you in touch with the respective Canada and US Hospital transplant offices.

Thank you and with kind regards.

Sincerely,

Shahrukh Marfatia

A Distressed Father

FEZANA - Teen Dating Violence

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 01:00:00 GMT

FEZANA Interfaith Activities Committee in collaboration with Project C.A.R.V. (Community Awareness for Relationship Violence) presents:

Teen Dating Violence
Become Aware Help Prevent

Tuesday, February 20th, 2024, at 8 PM Eastern | 5 PM Pacific

In this virtual program, we aim to raise awareness about Teen Dating Violence, and inspire you to join hands with those who are already fighting to prevent and end it. We will also provide the attendees with a basic Toolkit on Teen Dating Violence Prevention.

Our Speakers:

Mishal Ali is a senior at Klein High School and a Co-Founder of Project C.A.R.V.

Mahtab B. Dastur is a senior at Klein High School and a Co-Founder of Project C.A.R.V.

Susana Pulido is a senior at Klein High School and a Co-Founder of Project C.A.R.V.

Elizabell Vo is a junior at Klein High School and a Co-Founder of Project C.A.R.V.

Giovanni Valenzuela is a senior at Klein High School and an active advocate for TDV Awareness

Program Moderated by:

Bakhtavar Desai & Homi Gandhi,

Co-Chairs, FEZANA Interfaith Activities Committee

Register Now

CZC - Introduction to the Main Concepts in the Gathas

Sat, 17 Feb 2024 19:00:00 GMT

The California Zorastrian Cener (CZC) of Public Relations Committee invites you:

The class is designed as consecutive sessions. If interested, please plan to attend the first session to be included on the class email list. If you are unable to attend the first session, make sure to email us at pr@czc.org.

Join Zoom Meeting

OZCF - "FUNDS FOR FAITH" The $1 Million Challenge

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:05:59 GMT

The Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation (OZCF) wants your continued support to get them.

From Here

To Here

OZCF thanks each and every one of you for getting OZCF to this stage. As we approach the final stretch of this historic achievement for all Zoroastrians. OZCF is reaching out for your continued support once again and requesting your wholehearted participation by clicking below and donate to:

OZCF's Funds For Faith 1 Million Challenge

The Impact of Charitable Gaming

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 18:45:50 GMT

Click on the link CGCG SM FEB 2024-ENGLISH FINAL.mp4 and listen as Julie Aubé, Executive Director at Maison McCulloch Hospice speaks to the impact of Charitable Gaming.

FEZANA - Sadeh/Sada Celebration 2024

Sun, 28 Jan 2024 21:09:34 GMT

FEZANA is thrilled to share momentous news with you! The vibrant tradition of Sadeh, our cherished mid-winter festival, has officially been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity!

This prestigious recognition is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sadeh, a celebration that transcends borders and unites Zoroastrians around the world. From the joyous crackling of bonfires to the heartwarming communal feasts, Sadeh embodies our shared values of resilience, hope, and the triumphant return of spring.

To learn more about this significant achievement and delve deeper into the rich history and customs of Sadeh, we invite you to explore the following resources:

UNESCO Inscription Page: https://ich.unesco.org/en/RL/sadeh-sada-celebration-01713

As we rejoice in this collective victory, we encourage you to share your own Sadeh celebrations with the world! Tag @FEZANA on your social media posts featuring photos and videos. We will be actively reposting and amplifying your voices, showcasing the diverse and vibrant ways our global community honors this ancient tradition.

Additionally, feel free to directly message our social media accounts with your contributions – we'd love to feature them prominently!

With warmest regards and Happy Sadeh,

Cody K. Partovi

FEZANA Secretary

FEZANA - 2nd World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum Accepting Applications

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 20:44:42 GMT

FEZANA is happy to announce that applications are open for the 2nd edition of the World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum.

Below is an announcement received from Sanaya Master who is the WZYLF 2.0 Coordinator. She also serves as Co-Chair on the Welfare and Unity Committee of FEZANA.

World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum 2.0: Empowering Future Leaders

We are thrilled to announce the much-anticipated launch of the second edition of the World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum (WZYLF 2.0). Set to take place from May 24th to June 2nd, 2024, this exclusive event will bring together 25 dynamic young Zoroastrian leaders at the renowned ASHA Centre in the heart of the picturesque Gloucestershire, England.

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Gloucestershire, the ASHA Centre stands as a sanctuary for personal growth and innovative thinking. What sets ASHA apart is its unique approach to education, emphasizing a holistic model that engages the head, heart, and hands in creative problem-solving. This distinctive methodology fosters a deeper understanding of complex issues and encourages participants to explore solutions through various perspectives.

Building on the success of our inaugural forum, WZYLF 2.0 aims to continue nurturing the leadership potential of young Zoroastrians who have demonstrated a strong commitment to community engagement and a passion for shaping the future of Zoroastrianism.

This carefully curated event is an invitation-only platform that offers a unique opportunity for emerging leaders to collaborate, exchange ideas, and envision innovative projects in a supportive environment.

The impact of previous WZYLF participants on the global Zoroastrian community has been nothing short of extraordinary. These young leaders, after their participation in the forum, have embarked on remarkable endeavors, holding leadership positions in prestigious organizations, initiating impactful projects, hosting global conferences, and actively participating in crucial global events. Their remarkable journey post-forum is a testament to the transformative power of this gathering and the potential it ignites within its participants.

At WZYLF 2.0, participants can anticipate an immersive and dynamic experience comprising engaging workshops, mentorship opportunities, and interesting field trips to historically significant sites such as Oxford University, Ruskin Mill, and Stratford-upon-Avon. Embracing ASHA's distinctive holistic approach to learning, the program aims to nurture leadership qualities, ignite innovative thinking, and cultivate a shared vision for a more promising future within the Zoroastrian community.

If you are interested in this transformative opportunity or wish to learn more about the event, application process and cost of attending, please visit https://wzylf.com or contact us at contact@wzylf.com.

WZYLF 2.0 is not just a forum; it's a stepping stone for young Zoroastrian leaders to envision, collaborate, and lead the way towards a vibrant future for our community. Join us in this exciting journey of leadership, collaboration, and positive change.

Apply Now

FEZANA - Iranshah: A Legacy Restored Available for Sale

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

FEZANA is pleased to announce to announce the release of ‘Iranshah A Legacy Restored’, a book about the heritage restoration of the Iranshah Ātash Behram.

Published by Shapoorji Pallonji, the book is sold exclusively by FEZANA in North America, for anyone interested in exploring a volume of visuals, scripted with a narrative on Zoroastrian heritage.

Through an exclusive collaboration with the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, FEZANA has procured a limited quantity of these books to be shipped out of our headquarters in Chicago to addresses in the United States and Canada only.

Iranshah: A Legacy Restored

The book captures the extensive structural restoration by Shapoorji Pallonji, of the Fire Temple and buildings in its campus, recording work as it unfolded, revealing discoveries of interventions to the structures and the process for conservation of the art and antiquity. Along with technical details, the book also gives a glimpse of life in the sleepy coastal town of Udwada, the significance of a consecrated fire, a brief introduction of the Zoroastrian religion and glances at the cultural practices of a community that has made India their home for the last 1,300 years,

“The restoration of the Ātash Behram is in gratitude to the legacies our priests have preserved, and the book is a tribute to everyone who has toiled on this restoration project,” says Shapoor Mistry, Chairman, Shapoorji Pallonji And Company Pvt Ltd.

This Fire Temple is the house of the most revered, oldest and continuously burning fire, consecrated 1,300 years ago, and is the principal place of worship of the Parsi, Irani Zoroastrian faith and community. The Iranshah Ātash Behram building was constructed 130 years ago and consecrated on 31st October 1894, in Udwada, a town within the state of Gujarat, in India.

The publishers are grateful for the valuable support we received from scholars of Zoroastrianism to make this book an insightful volume for posterity. And many skills and much enthusiasm was found within our teams at Shapoorji Pallonji, to take this book from conceptualization, to writing and designing, to production and publishing.

The book is priced at US $50 for shipping to United States and US $70 for shipping to Canada.

Please allow 10-15 days for shipping.

LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE

BUY NOW

ZYNA - 2024 ZYNA Leadership Retreat in Vancouver

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 05:00:00 GMT

Join us for ZYNA’s annual retreat in beautiful Vancouver during the February Long Weekend of 2024! From 6 pm PST on Friday, February 16th to 11 am Monday, February 19th, 2024, Zoroastrian Youth of North America aged 15-35* are invited for a weekend full of community building, connection, and cultural engagement! The focus of this long weekend event is to empower and engage the youth of today to become the leaders of tomorrow.

There are limited slots available and once we reach capacity, we will open up a wait-list.

REGISTRATION START AT USD 150
Inclusive of 3-night hotel accommodation, transportation during the events, and most meals throughout the weekend.

USD 150 for a Quad occupancy room
USD 250 for a Double occupancy room
USD 450 for Single occupancy room

Registrants will be required to provide their transportation to the hotel located in Burnaby, British Columbia. Registrants are recommended to fly into YVR by the afternoon of Friday, February 16th, as events will begin by 6 pm PST.

Register by January 15th, 2024

No Partial Registrations – No Cancellations

*Parental consent would be required for those under the age of 18.

More details about the schedule and activities coming soon.

Excited to see you all in Vancouver!

Farzin Avari, Kimiya Shahzadi & Anaheez Karbhari

ZYNA Co-Chairs

For any questions or concerns reach out to us at youth@fezana.org

Register Now

FEZANA - Dr. Mariano Errichiello with Prof. Yuhan Vevaina: Zoroastrian Conversations

Sat, 09 Dec 2023 17:00:00 GMT

On the fourth episode Prof. Vevaina welcomes Dr. Mariano Errichiello, the Shapoorji Pallonji Lecturer of Zoroastrianism, Co-Chair and Executive Director of the Shapoorji Pallonji Institute of Zoroastrian Studies at SOAS.

Dr. Mariano Errichiello is a scholar of Zoroastrianism with an interest in history, texts, and communities of the modern period. He did his PhD at SOAS, University of London on the social history of Zoroastrianism in modern India. He has presented his research in international conferences in Asia, Europe, and the US earning two Honourable mentions by the Ancient India & Iran Trust (AIIT) and the Early Career Prize by the Association for the Study of Persianate Societies and the Journal of Persianate Studies.

Mariano has been a Resident Fellow of the Centre for Comparative Studies of Civilisations and Spiritualities at Fondazione Giorgio Cini in Venice, and a Research Fellow of the Nordic Institute of Asian Studies at the University of Copenhagen. In 2022, he joined the Centre for Advanced Studies in the Humanities and Social Sciences of the Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg in Germany as a Postdoctoral Fellow. His recent work focused on Parsi studies, esotericism, and ritual performance.

In September 2023, he was appointed as the Shapoorji Pallonji Lecturer of Zoroastrianism, Co-Chair and Executive Director of the Shapoorji Pallonji Institute of Zoroastrian Studies at SOAS.

Recordings of past Conversations are available here:
https://fezana.org/conversations/

"Zoroastrian Conversations" is envisioned to be a Charlie Rose-style interview show that would feature Yuhan Sohrab-Dinshaw Vevaina (Bahari Associate Professor of Sasanian Studies and Fellow of Wolfson College at the University of Oxford) interviewing academics from around the world working on Zoroastrian and Parsi Studies, the history, languages, and cultures of early Iran and cognate disciplines.

The interviews would be conducted on Zoom and moderated by FEZANA and would serve the function of introducing the global Zoroastrian communities to the most respected and up-and-coming scholars working in these fields.

These ‘Zoroastrian Conversations’ would also serve as a forum for community members to learn about the research and teaching being undertaken by professional academics and would serve the purpose of both public engagement and education.

The central premise would be an informal chat, perhaps every two months, where the scholar chatting with Prof. Vevaina could tell us a bit about their background, entrance into the field, their research interests, things they find fascinating about Zoroastrianism and Zoroastrian communities and their wish lists for what projects they would like to undertake in the future.

The two new hires in North America at the University of Toronto and UC Irvine have agreed to participate and such a forum would allow Zoroastrians the world over to listen to and learn from our newest professors and many other speakers from all over the world in the months to come.

Join on Zoom

FEZANA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Zoroastrian Conversations: Mariano
Time: Dec 9, 2023 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
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OZCF - Atashkadeh Fundraiser Gala Success

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 02:01:54 GMT

OZCF Gala Raises a Phenomenal $868,000 for Atashkadeh Construction – Our Time is Now

In a dazzling display of community spirit, the Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation (OZCF) hosted a spectacular gala on November 11, 2023, at the Mississauga Convention Centre to celebrate the ongoing construction of our consecrated Atashkadeh and future Atash-e-Adaran fire temple. This historic evening, attended by nearly 500 enthusiastic guests, marked a monumental fundraising success, generating an impressive $868,000.

Meticulously organized by our dedicated volunteers, the gala was hosted by our young and dynamic emcees, Xarius Jasavala and Aiden Silliphant, featured live and silent auctions and a live band. The night began with a Remembrance Day tribute, followed by the National Anthem sung by Shanaya Patel and heartfelt Din-no-Kalmo prayer recited by young mobeds, before dinner was served and the live auction began. Our energetic crowd buzzed with excitement during the auctions. We then heard inspiring speeches from Adil Bhesania, OZCF President, who welcomed everyone, as well as Phil Sidhwa, Place of Worship Advisory Committee Chair, and Marzi Byramjee, Fundraising Chair, about the current state of construction, and the power and impact our community achievements have on future generations to come.

Our professional auctioneer conducted our live auction with many exciting prizes donated by members of our generous community. The call for donations triggered a breathtaking flurry of generosity, with donations ranging from $150,000 to $100, and from contributors ranging across the age spectrum with passionate speeches and dedications. It was an awesome feeling to witness contributions from younger participants, donating whatever they could, instilling confidence in the future upkeep of our place of worship by the generations to come.

The OZCF’s 10-acre property in Oakville, Ontario, Canada Is destined to become a self-sustaining revenue generating complex, fostering the growth of Zoroastrianism in North America. Planned are a seniors retirement home, commercial and retail buildings, museum, classrooms and ample parking. Your continued generosity will help build a consecrated Atashkadeh to accommodate the expanding Zoroastrian community in the Toronto area and support the ordainment of Zoroastrian priests.

We send a huge THANK YOU to the generous guests, volunteers and contributors whose support made this year’s gala a resounding success!

Inspired to contribute?

Visit www.ozcf.com or contact philsidhwa@hotmail.com or marzi@regalpresscanada.com. Together as a community, we're propelling the vision of a vibrant Atashkadeh closer to reality!

Click To Read More

WZCC Toronto Chapter - Meeting at the OZCF

Sat, 18 Nov 2023 18:00:00 GMT

The World Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) Toronto Chapter is proud to announce the next meeting at the OZCF hall.

We will hear from four entrepreneurs who all started their businesses during the COVID years. The challenges they faced and where they are today. If you are an entrepreneur who started a business during the COVID years, please contact: afreed.mistry@gmail.com to be a speaker at the event.

Event Date: Saturday, Nov. 18th, 2023 @ 1:00 PM

Location: OZCF, 1187 Burnhamthrope Road E., Oakville, ON

Event Fee: Free

Please sign up to attend the event:

Attend the Event

Agenda:

1:00 pm - Registration and Networking (snacks will be served)
1:30 pm - Announcements and Introductions
1:35 pm - Hear from the Enterprising Entrepreneurs
2:45 pm - Networking with members
3:00 pm - End Meeting

Speakers:

Anaheez Karbhari

Anaheez Karbhari is a UX Designer based in Toronto, Canada. She is the founder and owner of Jaan Joon, a small baking business that blossomed during the rise of the pandemic. As a self-taught baker, Anaheez enjoys the process of innovation while paying homage to traditional Persian & Indian palates. Honey, saffron, pistachios, rose and cardamom are some of Jaan Joon’s staple flavor profiles. Anaheez specializes in unique goodies such as bite-sized truffles, macarons, and cookies, and is now shipping across Canada & the United States.

Diana Daver

Diana is the owner of a small business called JustSoaps by Diana. She makes handmade organic soaps in small batches. These soaps are packed with natural goodness and are devoid of any harmful chemicals like phthalates and parabens found in commercial soaps which are all carcinogenic and cause more harm than good. Diana’s soaps contain glycerine (which is a natural compound derived from vegetable oils and is known for its moisturizing properties), organic essential oils, skin friendly ingredients and are as natural as possible. Since these are as the name says “just soaps” they contain no preservatives, foaming agents and toxic scents. These soaps do have a small shelf life like all things natural and for all good reasons. They are perfect for all skin types and for all ages. What’s more is that these soaps are easily customizable too. They make for very unique and personal gifts as an added bonus.

Dr. Armita Bhesania

Drs. Armita and Adil Bhesania - two young sibling entrepreneurs have started a dental clinic in Mississauga, ON.

Armita will be speaking at the WZCC event. She went to dental school and graduated from Dalhousie University in 2019. She then did an additional year of intense training at Mount Sinai Hospital downtown Toronto.

Adil and Armita always knew they wanted to buy a dental clinic together and serve the community in whichever way they can. After 2 years of constant searching, they finally found a clinic they loved and are proud to call it their own. Churchill Smiles Dentistry is located in Mississauga.

Farah Ardeshir

Farah Ardeshir was born and brought up in Mumbai, India. She has done hospitality management but unfortunately, was never taught any baking in her program. She is a self-taught baker and has opened "M5 Bakes", a certified home based business, which makes delicious and fresh, made to order cakes, cupcakes, desserts, sweet and savory treats. She also offers vegan and gluten-free cakes and cupcakes.

In 2020, she got her calling to embrace the healing journey and educate in the natural and therapeutic form of hypnotherapy followed by other healing and spiritual modalities. Farah was attuned as a Reiki Master at the age of 18 years. Taking all these experiences ahead, she has now started a holistic health and wellness practice called "Spark the Light Within."

Farah now focuses full time on these 2 businesses. Her aim in both her businesses is to make people happy with her baking delicacies and holistic healing.

Regards,

WZCC Toronto Chapter Team

OZCF - Place of Worship Gala

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 23:00:00 GMT

The OZCF are thrilled to announce that they are embarking on an exciting journey to build their place of worship, and they would like to invite you to join them in this endeavor.

To celebrate this milestone, OZCF are organizing a grand gala event on Saturday, November 11th, at the prestigious Mississauga Convention Centre. The event will commence at 6:00 pm, and they cordially invite you to attend.

The gala promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with joy, cultural performances, and a chance to connect with fellow community members. It will also serve as an opportunity to raise funds for the construction of OZCF's place of worship.

Date: Saturday, November 11, 2023

Time: 6:00 pm onwards

Venu: Mississauga Convention Centre

Ticket Price: $150 per person

Contact for Tickets:

Gulrukh

cawasgul@gmail.com

647-787-0237

905-542-0237

To purchase tickets, kindly reach out to Gulrukh, OZCF's dedicated coordinator, at cawasgul@gmail.com or call her at or 905-542-0237. Gulrukh will be delighted to assist you with any inquiries or ticket purchases.

Your presence and support at this gala event will contribute significantly to the realization of OZCF's dream. Together, we can create a place of worship that will serve as a sanctuary for spiritual growth, community bonding, and cultural preservation.

Click Here to read our sponsorship opportunities.

FEZANA - Lived Zoroastrianism: A Conversation With Dr. Paulina Niechciał

Sat, 28 Oct 2023 16:00:00 GMT

FEZANA Religion Education Committee invites you to

Lived Zoroastrianism:How Zoroastrian Women Practice Religion in the American Diaspora

A conversation with Dr.Paulina Niechciał

Time: Saturday Oct 28, 2023

9:00 AM Pacific |12:00 PM Eastern

The lecture will discuss the anthropological study conducted among Zoroastrian women settled in the United States of America, which since the mid-20th century has been accommodating migrants and refugees practicing Zoroastrianism. Zoroastrian migration is connected with the transfer of religious practices to the new continent and their transformation and reevaluation in a new context. As institutional Zoroastrianism has been male-dominated, it is particularly interesting to explore how women transform religion through their practices and how they challenge the traditional way of understanding Zoroastrianism.

The perspective that inspired the study is a lived religion approach that captures the changes and diversification of religious practices in everyday life, highlighting the way individuals practice religion. In 2019, as a recipient of the Kosciuszko Foundation Fellowship, hosted by the Department of Central Eurasian Studies at the Indiana University in Bloomington, Dr. Paulina Niechciał conducted fieldwork within her research project ‘Lived Religion’ in the Context of Migration: The Case of Zoroastrian Women in the USA. The qualitative interviews collected within the project were conducted among the first and second generations of female immigrants, who identified with a Zoroastrian community and had at least one parent of Zoroastrian origin from Iran, India or old Parsi colonies. Conducted in different states, including Illinois, California, Texas, Kentucky, and Ohio, the study reflects on the diversity of American Zoroastrians, subsequently indicating some general trends in the transformation of their religion.

About Dr. Paulina Niechciał

Paulina Niechciał is an assistant professor in the Center for Comparative Civilization Studies at Jagiellonian University, Poland. She completed her M.A. degree both in Ethnology (2006) and Iranian Studies (2008), and a Ph.D. degree in Sociology (2012). In her doctoral thesis, based on field research conducted among Zoroastrians in Tehran, she analyzed the issues of collective identity. Her academic interests cover the anthropology and sociology of religion and the contemporary cultures of Persiante societies of Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. She authored academic journal articles and book chapters on minority and identity studies and a monograph in Polish titled Zoroastrian Minority in Modern Tehran: On Collective Identity in the Context of Shi’a Domination (2013). Her most recent research interests focus on modern Zoroastrianism within a gender studies framework.

Join Zoom Meeting

FEZANA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Lived Zoroastrianism: A Conversation with Paulina Niechciat

Time: Oct 28, 2023 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

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Meeting ID: 894 3548 7277

Passcode: FEZANA

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UPDATE - MGDM Construction Notice

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 04:00:00 GMT

UPDATE

MGDM WILL BE REOPEN ON

Friday, November 17th

We're happy to notify you that the construction and repaving project is successfully complete. The MGDM will reopen tomorrow, Friday, Nov 17, 2023.

As we step into the last phase of the repaving project and to ensure it is completed successfully and has a long lasting effect, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY the MGDM is closed for all visitors and all events are cancelled until further notice as this project is weather dependent.

~~We will keep you posted on the development of the project and the MGDM reopening date.Please visit our website for the hours of operation.~~

~~Thank you for your patience, support and understanding.~~

~~ZSO - BOD~~

~~We're happy to notify you that the Asphalting of the MGDM grounds will begin on Wednesday, Nov 01. This process will take 2-3 days depending on clear weather.~~

~~Keeping the safety of our community a top priority, as recommended by our contractors to ensure the freshly poured asphalt is completely dry, all events at the MGDM are cancelled until Sunday, Nov 05.~~

~~The MGDM will reopen on Tuesday, Nov 07. Please visit our website for updated hours of operation.~~

Parking will remain prohibited on ZSO Grounds for about two weeks depending on the weather from both entrances (Bayview and Creekside). Street parking is available on Creekside Rd. and the side streets. Please be mindful of the parking signs and bylaws as ZSO is not liable for any tickets or parking violations. No parking is permitted at any given time in the circle area in front of the Creekside entrance. This is the 911 emergency zone. Violators will be issued a ticket.

~~Once the job is complete and the grounds are ready, the gates on both entrances will open. We will continue to keep you posted on the progress and completion of the work.~~

~~Thank you for your patience and understanding.~~

~~ZSO - BOD~~

NAMC - Upcoming Course: Gathas 101

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 18:00:00 GMT

NAMC institute of Zoroastrian Studies

We are pleased to announce our upcoming course:

Click Here To Register

FEZANA - Dr. Céline Redard with Prof. Yuhan Vevaina: Zoroastrian Conversations

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 16:00:00 GMT

UPCOMING SATURDAY

On the third episode Prof. Vevaina welcomes Dr. Céline Redard a Lecturer for the Institute of History of Religions at the University of Strasbourg, France.

Dr. Céline Redard is a Lecturer for the Institute of History of Religions at the University of Strasbourg, France. She obtained her PhD from the École Pratique des Hautes Études in Paris in 2010 with her doctoral thesis being an edition, translation, and commentary on Vidēvdād 19. Subsequently, she was a Research Assistant at the Collège de France in Paris from 2008 to 2014 and was awarded a Marie Curie Fellowship at the University of Liège in Belgium from 2014 to 2016.

From 2017 to 2022, she was a Postdoctoral Researcher attached to the Multimedia Yasna (MuYa) Project funded by the European Research Council and directed by Prof. Almut Hintze at SOAS (London). Dr. Redard is currently carrying out her research on the Gujarati ritual directions in the Avestan manuscripts with the aim of studying the transmission of rituals in India from the 16th century until today.

Join On Zoom

FEZANA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Zoroastrian Conversations: Prof. Celine Redard with Prof. Yuhan Vevaina

Time: Oct 7, 2023 9:00 AM Pacific | 12:00 PM Eastern Time

Join Zoom Meeting
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Meeting ID: 874 3973 0140
Passcode: FEZANA
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Donation Appeal - Ervad Shahzad Darayus Hozdar

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 22:11:01 GMT

We are reaching out to the community at large to ask for your generous support to help raise money to assist with the medical costs of Ervad Shahzad Darayus Hozdar who has been diagnosed with high-grade Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a condition in which bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells. This puts him at a high risk of developing Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. Any amount you can donate will make a huge difference in his life.

Unfortunately, Shahzad’s younger brother passed away at the age of 20 from AML. The family is devastated to face this nightmare again and is terrified of losing another son. Shahzad is a young Dastoor who is a kind, gentle, and loving person. He has a bright future ahead of him, and he deserves a chance to live. The only curative treatment for MDS is a bone marrow transplant, but unfortunately, Shahzad does not have any siblings who can be his donors. His best option at this time is to take medications that can slow down the progression of the disease and improve his quality of life.

The family is very grateful to Dr. Antia and Dr. Jeyhan Dhabbar, Hematologist and Haemato-Oncologist who are treating Shahzad free of charge at the Parsee General Hospital in Mumbai, India. They have recommended that Shahzad needs to start taking medications that can reduce the risk of MDS transforming into AML. However, this medication is very expensive and each injection costs about IRS. 80,000.00 (CAD $1,302). Besides injections, he also needs a bone marrow transplant, and they are approaching Tata Memorial Centre for a donor.

His father recently met with an accident and is gradually recovering and regaining his speech. For some, misfortune comes with vengeance, and he lost his job.

Please help us save Ervad Shahzad and receive his family’s as well as Ahura Mazda’s Blessings.

You can make your donation directly below:

Account No: 032001008110
Name: SHAHZAD DARAYUS HOZDAR
IFSC Code: ICIC0000320
MMID: 9229510
Account Type: Savings
Bank: ICICI Bank

We appreciate your kindness and compassion in these difficult times for the family - Thank you in anticipation of your generosity.

OZCF - Atashkadeh Land Blessing Ceremony

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 18:00:00 GMT

OZCF - Place of Worship Land Blessing Ceremony

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 18:00:00 GMT

Join the Entertainment Committee - Volunteers Needed

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 21:52:39 GMT

Entertainment committee would like to invite ZSO members who would like to be a part of our Entertainment Committee.

We are looking for new members / volunteer chefs to join our committee.

If you wish to join the committee please email us your:

Full name
Goals for the committee
Plans to execute these goals
3-4 sentences about yourself

Please do send in your information to entertainment@zso.org by October 31st, 2023.

Looking forward to your email.

Thanking you,

Minoo Bharda

(Entertainment Committee Chair)

Mahanaz Sheriar

(Entertainment Committee Co-chair)

A Report from the Parliament of the World's Religions

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 18:22:06 GMT

First photo is of the author Pablo Vazquez. Second photo is of members of the Zoroastrian Association of Chicago in the Parade of Religions before the start of the Parliament.

As I tell people often, the Parliament of the World's Religions, the world's largest interfaith event representing over 150+ different religious traditions, is important to my own Zoroastrian development and directly responsible for my conversion. Before it, I knew next to nothing about Zoroastrianism, thinking it to be the dead religion of the ancient Persians. Yet here it was, at the FEZANA booth, where I met the Rivetnas, the first Zoroastrians I ever met. They gave me, like so many other attendees walking amongst the booths representing countless religious traditions, something I had never imagined would even exist, a pamphlet with some basic information and a book. With this simple act, by the time of the next Parliament, I was already a Zoroastrian, sedreh and all! In fact, I was there for this year's Parliament in Chicago volunteering with FEZANA telling many curious attendees who, like me previously, had no idea our faith was even still around. This is only a portion of the power, influence, and life-changing experience of the Parliament of the World's Religions with its more than 10,000 attendees who are able to sit and dialogue with each other every four years in ways that rarely happen in our day-to-day lives.

Leading figures including Ervad Mirza and Arzan Wadia marching at opening ceremony

Founded in 1893 at the World's Fair in Chicago, the Parliament of the World's Religions was the Upper Western World's first exposure to so many of the world's varied religions. Swami Vivekananda represented Hinduism there, receiving a standing ovation from an audience that included many who had never ever seen a Hindu before, and our own Sir Jivanji Jamshedji Modi delivered a paper prepared by both Dadabhai Naoroji and Ervad Sheriarji Dabadhai Bharucha that gained the attention of many there. It cemented the Zoroastrian community's stalwart involvement with the Parliament that continues to this day with not only a booth where attendees can buy books and learn more about our beautiful faith but also with Zoroastrians as invited major speakers to address the Parliament, including Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman and CNN reporter Parisa Khosravi, and with Zoroastrians on its board of trustees such as Mahrukh Motafram and Dolly Dastoor who have made our presence there all that more impactful. This year, as we have before, Zoroastrians even took part in the Parade of Faith both before and during opening ceremonies where both the head of FEZANA, Arzan Sam Wadia, and the head of NAMC, Ervad Tehemton Mizra, were present showing that once again our beautiful community, despite our numbers, packs an outsized punch in global affairs. As Mr. Wadia himself puts it: "Every four years, the Zoroastrian faith shines brightly at the Parliament thanks to the hard work of our leadership teams and respected speakers who showcase the beauty and majesty of our storied religion...We always look forward to participating and joining arms with our fellow co-religionists for what is a memorable and impactful week of interfaith dialogue and collaboration".

This sort of interfaith work is important because we're able to not just increase knowledge about our own faith and traditions but also help increase wisdom and understanding in a troubled world where so many are scared to even talk to their neighbors, or go into certain neighborhoods because of what they believe, who they worship, and the like. In matters of interfaith, I am proud to say that our community has not just been at the forefront consistently throughout North America and the world, but has a sacred calling towards it. Zarathushtra proclaims in the Gathas, in Yasna 30.9, that "We thus desire to be those who will bring magnificence to what exists, Oh Mazda and you other Ahuras, alongside the renovators and Asha, when we have centered our thoughts wherever wisdom and understanding may be found." Zarathushtra declares that his followers will not only seek wisdom and understanding wherever they can but also be the ones to help renovate existence, make our reality all that much better, and bring us closer to the Frashokereti, the "making beautiful" of our world. Interfaith work, if anything, is building and seeking wisdom and understanding with our global neighbors and with events like the Parliament, where through panels, speeches, ritual performances, informative lectures, and even simple conversations over lunch, we accomplish the duty set forth to us by Zarathushtra thousands of years ago.

Written by: Pablo Vazquez (Zoroastrian Center of Austin)

NAMC - Upcoming Course: Introduction to Zoroastrianism

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 18:00:00 GMT

NAMC institute of Zoroastrian Studies

We are pleased to announce our upcoming course:

Click Here To Register

FEZANA - Zoroastrian Studies Symposium In Honor of Ervad Dr. Jehan Bagli

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 17:00:00 GMT

FEZANA is happy to announce a Zoroastrians Studies Symposium in honour of our own dear Ervad Dr. Jehan Bagli.

This seminar is being organized by the University of Toronto, The Elahe Omidyar Mir-Djalali Institute of Iranian Studies and is co-sponsored by FEZANA and others.

The detailed program and line up of speakers is listed below.

This is an in-person and online event and we encourage all those who can to attend.

Date: September 9th, 2023
Time: 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Venue: Isabel Bader Theater, 93 Charles St W, Toronto ON, M5S 2C7

Ervad Dr, Jehan Bagli is the most recent recipient of FEZANA's Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the faith and the community here in North America.

He is the founding editor of the FEZANA Journal and has served local member associations and FEZANA in various capacities over the decades.

If you are planning to attend in person please RSVP at the ink below. The venue has limited seating.

Register for In-Person

To attend the online Zoom session, click on the link below to register.

Register for Online Event

OCZF - Construction Starts of New Place of Worship

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT

The OCZF's Place of Worship Advisory Committee (PWAC) are extremely pleased to inform the community that on September 08, 2023, the
Town of Oakville issued the building permit that enables OCZF to start construction of their new Place of Worship.

To read more click below:

Read More

WZCC Toronto Chapter Meeting at OZCF

Sat, 02 Sep 2023 17:30:00 GMT

The World Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) Toronto Chapter is proud to announce the next meeting at the OZCF hall.

We will hear from three entrepreneurs who all started their businesses during the COVID years. The challenges they faced and where they are today. If you are an entrepreneur who started a business during the COVID years, please contact: afreed.mistry@gmail.com to be a speaker at the event.

We will have sign up for membership for WZCC for $50 (until Dec. 2024).

Event Date: Saturday, Sept. 2nd, 2023 @ 1:30 PM

Location: OZCF, 1187 Burnhamthrope Road E., Oakville, ON

Event Fee: Free

Please sign up to attend the event:

Attend the Event

Agenda:

1:30 pm - Registration and Networking (snacks will be served)
2:00 pm - Announcements and Introductions
2:15 pm - Hear from the Enterprising Entrepreneurs
3:15 pm - Networking with members

Speakers:

Diana Daver

Dr. Armita Bhesania

Drs. Armita and Adil Bhesania - two young sibling entrepreneurs have started a dental clinic in Mississauga, ON.

Anaheez Karbhari

Regards,

WZCC Toronto Chapter Team

MGDM Grounds New Pavement

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:00:00 GMT

FEZANA - Call for Participants for the 68th Annual Commission on the Status of Women Conference ~ March 11-22, 2024

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:00:00 GMT

FEZANA Call for Participants for the 68th Annual Commission on the Status of Women Conference ~ March 11-22, 2024

The FEZANA UN-NGO Committee is looking for participants to attend the 68th Commission on the Status of Women Conference at the UN Headquarters in New York from March 11-22, 2024.

This year's main focus will be on accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.

For more information on the CSW68 check the website: https://www.unwomen.org/en/csw/csw68-2024

Individuals interested in attending the conference, are requested to:

Fill in the form: https://forms.gle/hszyHqKGa77Uifi56
Two minute video recording of yourself on how you see yourself fitting into the UN.
Send your video, resume and letter of intent for attending the CSW68 by September 1, 2024 to both individuals:

Dr. Behram Pastakia (Behram@fezana.org)

Miss Afreed Mistry (Afreed@fezana.org)

FEZANA, as an NGO in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the Department of Global Communications (DGC), will facilitate registration to the CSW Conference. The conference will be in a hybrid format (partially in-person and partially online).

The selected participants are expected to make their own financial arrangements regarding visas, tickets, accommodation, food, and transportation in the city.

Details about the vision, mission and activities of the United Nations can be accessed at www.un.org.

Regards,

Co-Chairs, FEZANA UN-NGO Committee

Iraqi First Lady at ASHTI Zoroastrian Temple in Kurdistan

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 20:34:00 GMT

Iraqi First Lady, Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmad, wife of the Iraqi President, held a special ceremony at ASHTI Zoroastrian Temple, in Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan to award a number of prominent personalities who have played a role in spreading the culture of peaceful coexistence and mutual acceptance among all religious and ethnic communities in the Kurdistan Region.

This ceremony that was held on Saturday 05.AUG.2023, at the ASHTI Zoroastrian Temple, in Sulaymaniyah city, was organized and prepared by Awat Hesamuddin (Darya), official representative of Kurdish Zoroastrians in K.R.G.

Representatives of eight different religions, including Islam, Sunni and Shiite, Christians, Zoroastrians, Jews, Saba'i Mandai, Baha'i ,and Kakai Yarsani, several national personalities and several organizational managers were honored at the ceremony.

At the ceremony, the First Lady of Iraq, Ms. Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed, was presented with an honorary award for her important role in supporting freedom of religion and belief, to support the culture of coexistence, between all religions and nationalities and to protect their rights.

The award of Queen Shabad, one of the most famous figures of Sumerian civilization, which means Queen of Beauty, was presented to the Iraq First Lady, Ms. Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed. Also she was presented with the Ashavan Zoroastrian Foundation Award for Music and Culture by Awat Darya, the official Zoroastrian representative.

Attached are some photos and a video.

The link is the video of the visit by the first lady of Iraq, the wife of the President of the Republic of Iraq, Dr. Latif Rashid, at ASHTI Zoroastrian Temple in Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan, on the occasion of honoring a group of Iraqi Kurdish personalities, which was officially published by Ms. Shahnaz Ibrahim Ahmad, in her social media account.

Watch Video

The Iraq First Lady, Ms. Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmad, the wife of the President of the Republic of Iraq, at the ASHTI Zoroastrian Temple in the city of Sulaymaniyah, receives the award of thanks and appreciation.

Judge Weria Kanimarani, who holds the position of a judge in the Court of Juveniles and Minors, in the city of Sulaymaniyah, receives an award of thanks and appreciation for his prominent role in serving justice and peaceful coexistence in society.

Judge Qasim Izdi, who is the first judge of the Yazidi religion to hold the position of judge of the criminal court in the city of Sulaymaniyah. He receives the award of thanks and appreciation.

Part of the presence of the dignitaries who were honored and mediated by the first lady of Iraq.

One of the Shiite clerics who was honored for his role in spreading the culture of peace.

Part of the presence of the dignitaries who were honored and mediated by the first lady of Iraq.

FEZENA - SOAS PhD Surveys on 'Zoroastrians-by-choice' and their interactions with Zoroastrians born to at least one Zoroastrian parent

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 19:56:32 GMT

SOAS PhD Surveys on 'Zoroastrians-by-choice' and their interactions with Zoroastrians born to at least one Zoroastrian parent

Some of you may recall an anonymous survey by Ruzbeh Hodiwala, a PhD Candidate at SOAS, on Zoroastrians-by-choice and their interactions with Zoroastrians born to at least one Zoroastrian parent. Ruzbeh had also presented his preliminary findings at the 12th World Zoroastrian Congress in New York and recently at the 8th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in London along with screening of a film titled 'Becoming Zoroastrian' that he has co-produced with a filmmaker Leah Rustomjee. Many of you have already completed the survey!

However, since the Gen Z survey was underway, Ruzbeh had discontinued the surveys in order to minimize confusion and survey fatigue among members of the community. As a result, he was unable to reach out to the maximum number of Zoroastrians. Ruzbeh is now planning to close the survey for good and is reaching out to the members of the Zoroastrian community one last time to spare some time to take the survey if you haven't already done it before!

Please feel free to share it widely among your family,friends, and community members around the world (excluding Iran).

Survey for 'Zoroastrians-by-choice'/those born to both non-Zoroastrian parents:

Survey I: (In English) For Zoroastrians born to both non-Zoroastrian parents.

English - Non-Zoroastrian Parents

Survey I: (In Persian) For Zoroastrians born to both non-Zoroastrian parents.

Persian - Non-Zoroastrian Parents

Survey for Zoroastrians born to at least one Zoroastrian parent:

Survey II: (In English) For Zoroastrians born to at least one Zoroastrian parent.

English - At Least One Zoroastrian Parent

Survey II: (In Persian) For Zoroastrians born to at least one Zoroastrian parent.

Persian - At Least One Zoroastrian Parent

You can reach out to Ruzbeh Hodiwala at:

ruzbeh_hodiwala@soas.ac.uk or

theneozoroastrianproject@gmail.com.

2023 ZSO Scholarship for Graduated High School Students

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Attention high school graduates, the application process for the Annual ZSO Academic and Community Service Excellence Award for High School Students Scholarship is now open for 2023.

The deadline for receiving completed applications this year is Monday, July 17, 2023. All pertinent details are in the application form.

Good luck to all the applicants.

2023 ZSO Scholarship Application

UPDATE - WZO US Region - Appeal from a mom for her premature baby girl

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 15:23:00 GMT

Earlier this week we shared an appeal from the World Zoroastrian Organization (WZO), U.S. Region Ltd. Seeking support and donations for a premature baby girl born in Secunderabad, India.

The young couple (Shiraz Pitcher and Urvaksh Fitter) were married in December 2022 and were expecting twins. Due to some medical issues, the babies (boy and girl) were delivered pre-mature at 28 weeks on July 6, 2023. Unfortunately, the baby boy didn’t survive and passed away.

The premature baby girl survived weighing only 1Kg and is currently in NICU on a ventilator and will require to stay there for a minimum of six weeks or till she is strong enough to survive outside.

We all know medical expenses and hospital stays are extremely expensive and this family needs our support. We’re requesting the community to join hands together and help this young family in need and most importantly for the baby girl to receive adequate care to fully recover from her current condition and live a happy and healthy life with her parents.

Please donate generously by visiting our ZSO donation page (https://www.zso.org/donate ) to support this cause by Aug 31st, 2023. Tax receipts will be issued instantly to your email address on file.

We thank you in advance for your generosity and support.

WZO US Region - Appeal from a mom for her premature Baby Girl

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 19:54:00 GMT

Gen Z And Beyond: A Survey For Every Generation

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 23:54:23 GMT

The research project "Gen Z and Beyond: A Survey for Every Generation" conducted between 1 July 2021 to 19 April 2023 affiliated with the University of London and privately sponsored, aimed to gather data on Zoroastrian communities globally. It utilized an online survey that allowed participants from any location to answer. The project was conducted by a small team led by Dr. Sarah Stewart, with support from Dr. Nazneen Engineer and Joe Turtle.

The survey sought to understand how individuals in different regions identify as Zoroastrians, their beliefs, religious practices, and devotional life. It also explored social habits, community engagement, knowledge dissemination through familial and communal channels, and interactions with non-Zoroastrian communities in social and workplace settings. With the global Zoroastrian population estimated at around 100,000 individuals, the survey aimed to identify challenges facing the community and provide valuable insights for community leaders to address them. Moreover, it aimed to create a comprehensive dataset for scholars and students studying the Zoroastrian religion, its history, and its people.

“Among young people aged 18-25 who never married, finding a Zoroastrian partner was the preferred option”

The first theme discusses the significance of marriage, intermarriage, raising children, and domestic life in relation to the declining number of Zoroastrians worldwide. Factors such as low fertility rates and delayed or non-existent marriages contribute to this decline. Traditional family patterns have been disrupted by migration and the decline of extended families. Among young people aged 18-25 who had never married, finding a Zoroastrian partner was the preferred option. However, for those who view ethnicity as integral to Zoroastrian identity, the fact that nearly half (49.5%) of respondents in this age group were in a relationship with or married to a non-Zoroastrian raises concerns about the decline of two-parent Zoroastrian households. A small percentage (6.8%) of respondents mentioned that their non-Zoroastrian spouses played a significant role in raising their children as Zoroastrians. Acceptance of intermarried spouses and offspring varied across different communities, with more resistance observed in traditional communities toward women who had married out compared to men. Attitudes toward gender are relevant to the discussion on intermarriage and population decline.

The second theme discussed is the perception of cultural heritage and its connection to literary heritage. The survey included questions about two significant texts: the Shahnameh (Book of Kings) and the Qisseh-ye Sanjan (Story of Sanjan). The Shahnameh, which dates back to pre-Islamic times and incorporates ancient Zoroastrian hymns, holds great significance for Iranian Zoroastrians, Iranians in general, and many Parsis in India and the diaspora. The Qisseh-ye Sanjan narrates the legendary journey of Zoroastrians from Iran to India following the Islamic conquest in the 10th century. Younger respondents (18-25-year-olds) were more likely to be unfamiliar with the Qisseh-ye Sanjan (22.1%) or the Shahnameh (44.2%) compared to older respondents. Surprisingly, immigrants that came from Iran to India were more likely to consider the Shahnameh unimportant (44.7% vs. 33.3%) despite the expectation that they would attach greater importance to cultural stories to maintain their traditions.

Migration is another significant theme discussed in the survey.
The location where individuals settle and their sentiments toward the place they left, whether it is their birthplace or not, has implications for their sense of identity and belonging. As a marginalized and often persecuted minority in Iran, Zoroastrians have a history of leaving their homes and resettling elsewhere. Migration occurred within Iran, such as during the Safavid period when many Zoroastrians were forced to leave Esfahan and relocate to Yazd.

Subsequently, migrations to India and other countries in Europe, Africa, the United States, and Britain shaped the modern Zoroastrian diaspora. It is common to find individuals who have migrated multiple times in their lives, often for educational or professional opportunities. The survey revealed that Zoroastrians adapt well to new circumstances and host communities, with 76.3% of respondents who had migrated considering their current place of residence as "home," where they feel they belong.

The primary obstacle encountered in completing the project within the designated time frame was the surveys uptake. Despite efforts to engage with numerous Zoroastrian Associations in North America and establish a network of ambassadors to promote the project, the response was slow, indicating a prevalent "survey fatigue" syndrome that hindered the anticipated enthusiastic participation. In India, the challenge took a different form, as the team was not permitted to enter the Zoroastrian baugs to distribute leaflets as initially planned. Furthermore, some community leaders in India and other regions did not accept the eligibility criteria, resulting in limited publicity and negative coverage in the Parsi press. The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic further complicated matters by making face-to-face communication impractical, leading some to question the appropriateness of conducting such a project and seeking funds during such a challenging time. Lastly, political unrest in Iran prevented any visits or promotions of the survey in that region.

Overall, this project aimed to provide valuable insights into the global Zoroastrian community, its demographics, religious practices, and the challenges it faces. The survey was conducted on a large scale, allowing for global comparisons and contributing to the existing understanding of Zoroastrianism

Written By: Nasha Makujina

Extracted from the GEN Z AND BEYOND: A SURVEY FOR EVERY GENERATION report. You can download the full report on: https://genzandbeyond.com/

Feature on Zoroastrian Designer Xenia Byramji

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 23:47:10 GMT

Xenia Byramji (bottom in black) and her womenswear collection The Being. Exploring the connection of the earth and spiritual world, the journey of finding the higher self within.

Xenia Byramji is a driven Fashion Designer, Visual Artist, and Stylist who is committed to incorporating natural and sustainable elements in her work. From a young age, she has demonstrated a keen interest in Fashion by experimenting with her mother's clothing, trying on different combinations of outfits, borrowing her mother's heels, purses, and testing makeup looks. Since childhood, Xenia was always the "Girly Girl", in contrast to her sister, Zoish, who was a “Tomboy”, and would style pieces for her sister despite her sister’s wishes, which encouraged Xenia to create innovative and unique designs.

Xenia's first inspiration for Visual Art came from her grandfather, Kersi Banaji, who used graphite and charcoal to create beautiful portraits of his wife, Shenaz Banaji. Years of watching this artistic process helped reinforce Xenia's passion for the Arts.
Xenia's Fashion Career began during her younger years when she became interested in designing fashion illustrations on her croquis. In 2017, she sought to gain professional experience in Fashion Design by building her portfolio at the Haute Couture Academy of Fashion, Fine Arts & Design.
Going against her parents' vision to pursue a career in Business, Xenia continued to fight for Fashion Design and applied to her first choice, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) School of Fashion (formerly Ryerson University) which is the oldest fashion program in Canada. According to Forbes, an American business magazine, “It is one of the few art institutions with decolonization as a primary guiding principle along with inclusion and sustainability.” Through her perseverance, she got accepted in the Fashion Design program at TMU in 2018, which has a low acceptance rate of sixteen percent.

However, during her path to success, she had to conquer many barriers. During her first two years of university, Xenia faced design restrictions and non-fashion-related courses that made her studies challenging. To overcome these challenges, she had to learn new skills such as Graphic Design, with the help of her friend, Cameron Pinto.

Xenia came out of her comfort zone after her second year and began working on her Menswear Collection titled, Khaos, which allowed her to explore her own design aesthetic and found her voice. As she progressed to her fourth year, she gained a better understanding of her creative direction. While her current collection titled, The Being, is womenswear, she plans to continue working on womenswear, unisex and menswear garments for her future collections.

Xenia is an adventurous women who enjoys taking walks in nature as well as practicing yoga and meditation on a daily basis to strengthen her spiritual awareness. Her daily routine gives her the space to experience new aspects of nature on a spiritual level which reflects on her work.

Designer Xenia Byramji wanted something that would both intimidate and aid her journey of personal growth. Through her hard work and strong self-belief, Ahura Mazda answered Xenia’s prayers. The iconic Mass Exodus Runway Show was held on April 15, 2023. Xenia created and curated her third collection “The Being”, featuring 5 womenswear dresses inspired by the religion of Zoroastrianism, the monotheistic religion of ancient Persia emphasizing humankind’s relationship with nature. This capstone collection explores the connection of the earth and spiritual world, the journey of finding the higher self within. From look to look, the story unfolds by using the opacity of fabric to translate the idea and concept from spirit to human.

White is the main color choice in this collection and is associated with light and goodness. In Zoroastrianism, the color white holds significant symbolic meaning as it is associated with purity and righteousness. Fabrics used in the collection are cotton voile, 100% cotton, and 100% silk to incorporate eco-friendly practices.

Seeing her dreams turn into reality, Xenia's heart filled with gratitude. She expresses her deepest appreciation to Professor Danielle Martin for all her help and support during this entire process. Xenia wants to further express her heartfelt gratitude to her parents, sister and best friend Ammar, for their unwavering support in her fashion pursuits. Her family and friends are the core of Xenia’s heart and support system.

For aspiring Zoroastrian creatives, Xenia strongly recommends they follow their passion and do everything in life with love.

Interviewed and Written by Ardeshir Jamtorki
Editor in Chiefs Zarah Irani and Zubin Irani
Assisted by Shenaz Banaji and Huferesh Vania
Reviewed by Xenia Byramji

New ZSO Visting Hours - Effective June 1

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Financial Incentive for 8WZYC Youth Attendees

Wed, 31 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT

There is a financial incentive from ZSO, to ZSO youth members that are attending this year's 8th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress (8WZYC).

ZSO has approved and allocated a budget for 2023 to those attending the 8WZYC.

ZSO is committed to encourage youth and young adults to participate at this event.

ELIGIBILITY

Must be the age of 35 years or younger
Must be registered for 8WZYC (proof of registration is mandatory)
Must be a current resident of Canada
Must have an active ZSO youth/adult membership in 2022-2023 and 2023-2024

SHORT ESSAY

Eligible candidates must complete the short essay questions provided below before the due date of May 31, 2023.

Who has been a role model for you from the Zoroastrian community and explain why and how has it influenced your life? (250-300 words)

How can the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario help to better support the youth? How will you continue to contribute to your community after the Congress? (250-300 words)

PROCESS

To submit your application please create an email with the following information listed below:

To: communications@zso.org

Subject: Financial Incentive for 8WZYC

Email Body:

First Name

Last Name

Phone Number

Email Attachments:

Short essay attached must be formatted in Word (.doc, .docx) or PDF (.pdf) or Rich Text format (.rtf)

Attach your 8WZYC event ticket PDF file or forward your 8WZYC registration confirmation email to communications@zso.org

The ZSO board will be reviewing applications, we thank everyone for their submission.

FUND DISTRIBUTION

ZSO will be equally distributing the funds and the final amounts will depend on how many successful applications are received by the deadline.

TIMELINE

April 13, 2023 - Email announcement

May 31, 2023 - Application closes
June 10, 2023 - Successful applicants will be informed by email
June 12, 2023 - Funds disbursed

FEZANA - Final Report: Gen Z and Beyond Survey

Tue, 16 May 2023 22:04:55 GMT

Gen Z and Beyond: A Survey for Every Generation

Final Report Now Available

FEZANA is happy to share that the Final Report of the Gen Z and Beyond Survey is now available to view and download.

The Gen Z and Beyond Survey was supported by FEZANA and all its member associations. The findings of the report will help us and our member associations in their daily working and policy initiatives.

An Executive Summary with key findings from the Report shall be shared in the coming weeks, and FEZANA will facilitate a roadshow to share these findings.

SOAS, who conducted the survey and prepared the report write....

We are pleased to announce that the report of the findings from Gen Z and Beyond: A Survey for Every Generation is now available. There you can also access the appendices for each chapter and the questionnaire.

Gen Z and Beyond: A Survey for Every Generation was conducted using an in-depth, online questionnaire that reached a large, multinational population quickly and easily. We would like to thank all 5003 respondents who took the time to participate in the survey and contribute to this valuable resource.

We are very grateful to our donors, ambassadors and volunteers without whom this project would not have been possible. We hope that this report, accompanying appendices, and the raw data will be useful to students, academics, and the Zoroastrian community worldwide.

FEZANA joins SOAS in thanking all the participants of the survey. We also thank the initiators of the project, generous donors who made it possible and all the volunteers and ambassadors who worked towards its success. Our special thanks for the leadership provided by Dr. Sarah Stewart, Dr. Nazneen Engineer and Joe Turtle at SOAS for making this report possible.

Read and Download Report

FEZANA - The 9th Ratanbai Katrak Lectures on Zoroastrianism

Thu, 11 May 2023 16:30:00 GMT

The 9th Ratanbai Katrak Lectures on Zoroastrianism

Delivered by Prof. Dr. Alberto Cantera (Freie Universität Berlin) 101 years after the inauguration of the Ratanbai Katrak Lecturership at the University of Oxford Convened by Prof. Yuhan S-D Vevaina for the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies.

‘With which Yasna shall I worship you (kana θβąm yasna yazāne)? Zoroastrian Rituals in the Antique and Late Antique Iranian world’

These lectures will stream on Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81728008051

Join on Zoom

Lecture 1: Manuscripts and Rituals: The Written Transmission of the Zoroastrian Rituals
Thursday 11 May 2023, 12:30 PM Eastern | 9:30 AM Pacific

Lecture 2: The Questioned Antiquity of the Zoroastrian Rituals: Their Reception in Western Academia
Thursday 18 May 2023, 12:30 PM Eastern | 9:30 AM Pacific

Lecture 3: The Ritual System: Modularity and Productivity
Thursday 25 May 2023, 12:30 PM Eastern | 9:30 AM Pacific

The above lectures can also be attended in person from 5:30 PM BST (British Summer Time) on all three days at Wolfson College, Linton Road, Oxford, OX2 6UD

Three more lectures are scheduled for Autumn 2023 Contact: yuhan.vevaina@ames.ox.ac.uk

About Prof. Dr. Alberto Cantera

Prof. Dr. Alberto Cantera is the Director of the Institute for Iranian Studies at the Freie Universität Berlin. The focus of his work is on Zoroastrian textuality from Antiquity until the modern age, especially the Avestan texts, their reception in Late Antiquity, and their use in Zoroastrian rituals. He is responsible for transforming our collective understanding of the Avestan texts by emphasising their ritual character and is engaged in the monumental task of describing and understanding the history of Zoroastrian ritual practices. Since 2008 he has been the Director of the Avestan Digital Archive, the largest collection of Avestan manuscripts published online. Furthermore, he is the
principal investigator of a long-term project preparing a new edition of all the Avestan texts used in the Zoroastrian rituals: Corpus Avesticum Berolinense. He is also one of the principal investigators of another long-term project in collaboration with the universities of Bochum and Cologne: The Digital Corpus and the Dictionary of Middle Persian. His published books include: Studien zur Pahlavi-Übersetzung des Avesta (Wiesbaden, 2004); Vers une édition de la liturgie longue zoroastrienne: pensées et travaux préliminaires (Leuven, 2014); and Introduction à l’avestique recent (Girona, 2019) together with Céline Redard; He is currently preparing a project on the Pahlavi nērangs or ritual instructions in the Iranian liturgical manuscripts.

FEZANA - Call for Participants to the High-Level Political Forum ~ July 10-20, 2023

Fri, 05 May 2023 04:00:00 GMT

FEZANA Call for Participants for the High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) 2023 ~ July 10 – 20, 2023

The FEZANA UN-NGO Committee is looking for participants to attend the High-Level Political Forum at the UN Headquarters in New York from July 10 - 20, 2023.

This year's main focus will be on, "Accelerating the recovery from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at all levels”.

In the forum, participants will be able to further discuss the effective and inclusive recovery measures to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and explore actionable policy guidance for the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs at all levels.

The HLPF in 2023, without prejudice to the integrated, indivisible, and interlinked nature of the SDGs, will also review in-depth Goals 6 on clean water and sanitation, 7 on affordable and clean energy, 9 on the industry, innovation, and infrastructure, 11 on sustainable cities and communities, and 17 on partnerships for the Goals.

For more information on the HLPF, visit: https://hlpf.un.org/2023

Individuals interested in attending the conference, are requested to:

Fill in the form: shorturl.at/bijnx
Two-minute video recording of yourself on how you see yourself fitting into the UN.
Send your video, resume, and letter of intent for attending the HLPF by May 5, 2023, to both individuals:
Dr. Behram Pastakia (Behram@fezana.org), Miss Afreed Mistry (Afreed@fezana.org)

FEZANA, as an NGO in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and the Department of Global Communications (DGC), will facilitate registration to the HLPF.

The selected participants are expected to make their own financial arrangements regarding visas, tickets, accommodation, food, and transportation in the city.

Details about the vision, mission, and activities of the United Nations can be accessed at www.un.org.

Regards,

Miss Afreed Mistry

Dr. Behram Pastakia

Co-Chairs, FEZANA UN-NGO Committee

CZC - A Question of Power

Sat, 22 Apr 2023 21:00:00 GMT

The California Zoroastrian Center (CZC) presents:

Join Zoom meeting:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83750133175?pwd=R2NGZmF6Tm1PUGlBT1hDS0UybjBpQT09

FEZANA - ART EXHIBIT OF POSTCARDS in a FAROHAR SHAPED COLLAGE

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 14:00:00 GMT

ART EXHIBIT OF POSTCARDS in a FAROHAR SHAPED COLLAGE

FOR DISPLAY AT THE
2023 PARLIAMENT OF WORLD’S RELIGIONS

Theme
A Call to Conscience: Defending Freedom and Human Rights

We are requesting your participation in this Project by sending us a Postcard with your message on DEFENDING FREEDOM AND HUMAN RIGHTS, which is the overarching theme of this year's Parliament of World's Religions.

We will put these Postcard messages from our communities around the world, in a Farohar shaped collage, displayed in the Exhibits section at the Parliament, from 14th through 18th August at the McCormick Place Lakeside Center in Chicago, USA. Through this display, we will enable the voices of our world-wide Zoroastrian community members to join those hundreds of voices speaking at the Parliament on Defending Freedom and Human Rights.

The Instructions on preparing these postcards are given below.  We look forward to receiving your response as soon as possible, but no later than 30th April, 2023.

You may reach us anytime with questions.

The contact email is powr@fezana.org

Thanking you, and with our best wishes to all,

Sincerely,
Bakhtavar Desai and Homi D. Gandhi
Co-Chairs, Interfaith Activities, FEZANA

Instructions for Submitting your Postcard:

Individuals (or Teams of individuals) will write and submit one postcard on the theme of the Parliament: A Call to Conscience: Defending Freedom and Human Rights

Where To Send:

You may scan and email your entry to us at powr@fezana.org

If you wish to mail your entry, you can send it to:
Fezana-POWR Postcard, 8615 Meadowbrook Drive, Burr Ridge, IL 60527 U.S.A

To ensure your entry reaches us safely and timely, we encourage you to email it to us.

Deadline for receiving the entries: 30th April, 2023

Scanning Options:

Any scanning app on your phone will work fine. Here is one app and its instructions: Adobe Scanner (free app) on your phone to send in your entry. Use bright light when you scan please. Instructions are viewable in this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HE3IRDblu8U

Size Of Postcard:

It should be the size (and paper thickness) of an Index Card – 3 inches (7.6cm) tall x 5 inches (12.7cm) wide. If you use a slightly larger size, it is fine, just be sure to keep your message/art within the 2.5 inches to 4.5 inches boundary as we may need to make size modifications. This will be the project that will be included in the installation. If you feel you need to add a mini paragraph to explain your creation, please include a separate postcard which will not be included in the creation. You may include your creations in English, Farsi, Dari or Gujarati.

Details for Submission:

Font – 0.25 inches to 0.5 inches

You can use one of these various forms of expression for entry submission:

ART

Create a word bubble and insert 7-10 words within the bubble on the PoWR theme
Create a miniature painting or drawing on the theme
Create a mini collage on the theme

WRITING
Ecology and Zoroastrianism (write 3-4 lines). While the green movement has caught the attention of many now, Zoroastrianism teaches respect for all creations. Select 1-3 creations and write one line on how each of these apply to the PoWR theme.

Poem (Write 4 lines)
Following the Spenta Mainyu Gatha (Bounteous Spirit/Wisdom) Yasna 47-50
(Modified using the Gathic meter of 4 verses with 4 syllables + 7 syllables per meter).

Write four lines on the PoWR theme

Line 1 – 4 syllables
Line 2 – 7 syllables
Line 3 – 4 syllables
Line 4 – 7 syllables

Lines do not have to rhyme but they do need to follow the theme of the PoWR

Humata, Hukata, Huvareshta -Three lines with three tenets in mind – Good thoughts, good words, good deeds. Each line should be literally that, fit within a line.

Line 1 – A good thought that applies to the theme
Line 2 – A good word(s) that apply to the theme
Line 3 – A good deed that applies to the theme

Cyrus the Great, defender of human freedom

Cyrus is considered the definitive ruler to have established human rights and the British museum has the translation of the cuneiform inscription. Select 1-3 phrases of the inscription that apply to the PoWR theme and write them on the postcard

(Resource: https://www.cais-soas.com/CAIS/History/hakhamaneshian/Cyrus-the-great/cyrus_cylinder_complete.htm)

MUSIC

Create a 1-2 lines musical script based on the theme. Script has to be written in the five-line musical script format.

Note: Your entries will not be returned to you. (Although we will try and include as many as possible, your entries may not be used in the final project) If we receive an overwhelming response of entries, we may not be able to use all of them for the collage exhibit.
Thank you for lending your voice to defending freedom and human rights in our world!

SAMPLES OF POSTCARDS

For any questions write to: powr@fezana.org

SOAS - Applications for the Zoroastrian Summer School 2023 in Rome are Now Open

Sun, 19 Mar 2023 04:00:00 GMT

Zoroastrian Summer School 2023
Applications Now Open!

We are pleased to announce that applications for the Zoroastrian Summer School 2023 are now open. The course will take place from the 26 to 30th June 2023 at the Norwegian Institute in Rome, in collaboration with the University of Bergen.

Students at the 2022 summer school

The topic of the course is ‘Zoroastrianism as a religious minority in modern and contemporary Iran’. This course is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the study of Zoroastrianism. Students will be given an intensive learning experience consisting of lectures, discussions and interactive workshops. The course will be delivered by leading academics from Norway, the UK and the US.

Applications are open to both current (undergraduate or master’s) students and graduates. There are no tuition fees, and only a £40 registration fee for successful applicants. We are pleased to offer three bursaries of up to £1000 to help with the costs of travel and accommodation.

The deadline for applications is 19th March 2023. To find more information on the course details and application requirements, please visit the SSPIZS website.

We look forward to reading your applications!

FEZANA - United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Registration is Mandatory

Women’s Empowerment with Digitization in the Pre and Post Covid Era
Zoroastrian delegation to deliver a panel discussion at the United Nations
As part of the 67^th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67)

NEW YORK, March 3, 2023 – FEZANA will be participating at the 67^th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) Conference to be held at the UN Headquarters in New York, USA.

This year’s theme will focus on innovation and technological change, and education in the digital age for achieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls. FEZANA has put together a diverse team of delegates that will be attending and representing FEZANA at the conference.

Dr. Farah Shroff (Vancouver, Canada), Dr. Zebalda Bamji (Toronto, Canada), Sharmin Mistry (Toronto, Canada), Delna Sethna (Mumbai, India), Kaizaad Kotwal (Mumbai, India), Mahabanoo Kotwal (Mumbai, India), Javeed Shaikh (Gujarat, India), Afreed Mistry (Toronto, Canada) and Behram Pastakia (Washington, DC, USA) will be representing the Zoroastrians at the UN.

A subset of the above group will be presenting a panel discussion titled, ““Women’s Empowerment with Digitization in the Pre and Post Covid Era”. The panel will cover topics related to digitization (pre- and post-covid) concerning women. Issues covered with be related to mental health, society, technological accessibility and women’s safety. The panel will also provide actionable ideas for wider implementation.

This panel discussion is open to all, so please register to attend.

The panel discussion details are:
Date: Monday, March 13th, 2023
Time: 4 PM EST / 1 PM PST
Register: bit.ly/FEZANA

Speakers:

Dr. Farah Shroff
Farah is a visionary Canadian public intellectual with expertise in global public health research and education.
Planet. A policy expert, she has worked within and for many governments in Canada and elsewhere.
Her research areas are integrative health approaches such as Ayurveda and yoga, and social/environmental justice-from a feminist anti-racism decolonial lens. Speaking French, Spanish and English, she has worked in many nations as an educator in academia and other communities. She founded and leads Maternal and Infant Health Canada, a global public health collaborative aiming to improve the wellbeing of women, young ones and the environment.
Harvard School of Public Health recently awarded her a mid-career fellowship, recognizing her expertise in global
public health. She works as an independent consultant, faculty member at the University of British Columbia and
teacher of yoga, dance, meditation and other mind-body activities. Dr Shroff is regularly featured in the media.

Contact: drfarahshroff@gmail.com

Dr. Zebalda Bamji
Zebalda has dedicated her career to improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery systems, leveraging her profound scientific acumen and exceptional business sense. With an impressive track record of diverse leadership roles, she leads cross-functional teams in biomedical sciences, program management, and business development for multimillion-dollar high-growth initiatives in medical innovation and digital health. She has served as a top-level strategist and subject matter expert across diverse organizations from Canadian and US Health Authorities, Hospital Consortiums, Pharmaceuticals, and Research Organizations across Canada, the US, India, Nepal, China, and the EU. Dr. Bamji has earned her Executive MBA from Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, her MS and Ph.D. from Howard University College of Medicine, and her BSc. from St. Xavier’s College Mumbai. She has strategized and supported the development of 6 start-ups with intellectual property patents and venture capital funding. As a thought leader, she has delivered countless seminars and presentations, authored peer-reviewed publications, and taught thousands of medical graduate and undergraduate students over the decades. She has held faculty appointments with Howard University and Northeastern University. She serves on the Board of healthcare facilities, local NGOs, and start-ups. She is also a committed member of several International Charitable Organizations, aiding in poverty alleviation, women’s empowerment, stress relief through meditation, and scientific advancement.

Contact: zebalda@gmail.com

Sharmin Mistry
Sharmin is originally from Mumbai, India, now residing in Toronto, Canada, Sharmin is the Assistant Secretary of the Federation of Zoroastrians of North America (FEZANA). She is a marketing graduate from Seneca College, Toronto currently working at a global media agency, Publicis Media. As a women empowerment advocate, her goal is to inspire Zoroastrian women to become an inspiration for other women, through guidance, motivation and mentorship.

Contact: sharminmistry94@gmail.com

Moderator:
Afreed Mistry
Afreed is from Toronto, Canada and has been an active member of FEZANA since 2002. She co-chairs the FEZANA UN-NGO Committee along with Dr. Behram Pastakia. Afreed is also the main representative for FEZANA at the United Nations. She has attended and presented at eight United Nations’ CSW Conferences and also been a part of the UN DGC Conferences, Parliament of World’s Religions and attended numerous UN meetings.

Contact: Afreed@fezana.org


Dr. Behram Pastakia
Chair of the Zarathushti Youth Without Borders initiative of FEZANA, and Co-Chair of its UN – NGO Committee is a practicing radiologist in Metropolitan Washington D.C. He is part of RAD-AID International (rad-aid.org), an NGO which promotes health care in low resource countries, through education, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Contact: Behram@fezana.org

About United Nations
The United Nations is central to global efforts to solve problems that challenge humanity. Cooperating in this effort are more than 30 affiliated organizations, known together as the UN sytem. For more information visit www.un.org

About the Commission on the Status of Women
The CSW is a global governmental body that is dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women. This commission was established by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in 1946. Every year the CSW holds a conference in the winter for a two-week period where Un entities, Member States and Civil Society discuss issues pertaining to women, girls and gender equality. The past 3 years this conference has been virtually hosted due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

FEZANA Contact:
Sharmin Mistry, Assistant Secretary – FEZANA, CSW@fezana.org, +1-416-475-6986

NAMC - Online Lecture: Celebrating the Philosophy of Zarathushtra

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 19:00:00 GMT

8th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress (8WZYC) - Online Silent Auction

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 00:02:33 GMT

BAHUMATA - Let's Be More Adaptive and Less Reactive

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 16:00:00 GMT

BAHUMATA SUPER SPECIAL

For You And Your Family

ON FEBRUARY 5, 2023

HONORING

ASHO ZARATHUSHTRA

WITH THE SPECIAL THEME OF

LET'S BE MORE ADAPTIVE

AND LESS REACTIVE

Ahunavaiti Gatha Yasna Ha 30.2

Do Join Us For This Very Special Webinar

With Our BaHumata Super-Stars

Ervad Kobad Zarolia (Canada)

Mobadyar Paria Mavandi (Iran)

Dr. Armaiti May (United States)

Hutokshi Hira (Australia And Pakistan)

This 26th Thought Provoking Inspirational Webinar

Will Be Conducted By

Our Very Own Zarathushti Neuro Scientist

from Cambridge University in United Kingdom

Dr. Karishma Koka, PhD

Founder, Host And Moderator of Ba Humata

Please Reserve Your Time For A Milestone Experience Of Your Life.

On Sunday, February 5, 2023

11:00 AM Eastern Time

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83408826220

Meeting ID: 834 0882 6220

Passcode: BAHUMATA

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE

WHEN MAXIMUM ZOOM PARTICIPANT

CAPACITY IS EXCEEDED

The Facebook stream will be available at

https://www.facebook.com/BaHumataVohumana

Appeal for financial assistance to Ms. Zarina Bharucha of Toronto

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 14:33:00 GMT

The Zoroastrian Society of Ontario and it’s Help Hands Committee is reaching out to our entire community to join hands together and support Zarina and her family in these difficult times. Please donate online by visiting the ZSO website at https://zso.org/donate and designate your donation to Zarina.

Zarina Bharucha and her family are in a very difficult situation. She is currently unemployed and facing some financial challenges to pay for the funeral costs of her father Sammy Pheroz Bharucha who passed away on Feb 2^nd, 2023.

The members of Our ZSO Helping hands committee have been working hard in supporting her during these difficult times and have connected Zarina with Jarrett Kane funeral home for next steps and options available for the funeral etc. We’re fortunate to have priests performing the prayers and rituals at no cost, however we all know there are many other expenses associated in performing the last rites. The funeral will take place by Sunday which will not allow for enough time for the family to receive any Government funding, if applicable.

Together we stand strong!

Zoroastrians confront depletion of their ancient faith

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 04:49:00 GMT

View Article

Farewell to our custodian Farrokh Farhadian

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 01:45:20 GMT

A big thank you to our custodian Farrokh Farhadian who has served our community for the past seven years.

His last day with the ZSO as a custodian will be January 31, 2023.

When you get the opportunity please share your appreciation to him personally and as a board we have been so grateful for him.

Wishing you well and tandorosti Farrokh Jan.

On behalf of the ZSO board and our community you will be missed.

Iranian Zoroastrian Children Religious Classes - Starting on January 22, 2023

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 19:45:00 GMT

Iranian Zoroastrian Children religious classes will be conducted on Sunday biweekly basis with the first class starting on January 22, 2023 from 2:45 pm to 5:00 pm.

The classes will be divided into two age categories of 6 to 10 years and 11 to 16 years old.

Please text your kids name and age to:

Ms. Mavandadnejad - (647) 871-5332

It’s combination of religious class and fun time for both groups of ages.

NAMC - Discussion Group: Zoroastrianism Outside the Box

Sun, 22 Jan 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Zoroastrian Studies Seminar Series

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 18:00:00 GMT

NAMC - Online Course: Understanding the Nyaeshes

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 15:00:00 GMT

New Custodians at the MGDM

Sat, 14 Jan 2023 19:21:00 GMT

We are happy to introduce and welcome our new custodians at the Mehraban Guiv Darbe Mehr (MGDM), Viraf and Dilkhush Bhesania.

They will be residing and working at the MGDM starting on February 1st, 2023.

Kindly make them feel welcome and please be patient as they settle in.

Sincerely,

Your ZSO Board of directors

FEZANA - Call for Participants for the 2023 UN Water Conference ~ March 22-24, 2023

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 05:00:00 GMT

FEZANA Call for Participants for the 2023 UN Water Conference ~ March 22-24, 2023

The FEZANA UN-NGO Committee is looking for participants to attend the 2023 UN Water Conference at the UN Headquarters in New York from March 22-24, 2023.

For more information on the conference:
https://sdgs.un.org/conferences/water2023/about

About the conference | Department of Economic and Social Affairs - Sustainable Development Goal 9:

On 20 December 2018, the General Assembly adopted the resolution on the “Midterm comprehensive review of the implementation of the International Decade for Action, ‘Water for Sustainable Development’, 2018-2028” (A/RES/73/226).The resolution calls for a Conference on the Midterm Comprehensive Review of the Implementation of the Objectives of the International Decade for Action to be ...
https://sdgs.un.org

Individuals interested in attending the conference, are requested to send their resume and letter of intent for attending the conference by December 15, 2022.

Please send the e-mail to both individuals below:
Behram Pastakia (Behram@fezana.org)
Afreed Mistry (Afreed@fezana.org)

FEZANA, as an NGO in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) will facilitate registration to the Water Conference.

The selected participants are expected to make their own financial arrangements regarding visas, tickets, accommodation, food, and transportation in the city.

Details about the vision, mission and activities of the United Nations can be accessed at www.un.org.

Regards,
Co-Chairs, FEZANA UN-NGO Committee

Scouts Coffee Fundraiser

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 23:52:05 GMT

Click to Order

BA HUMATA TALKS - In Life, What You Emphasize Multiplies, Amplifies and Unifies - Guest Speakers Ervad Mehbad & Xersis Dastur

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 16:00:00 GMT

BA HUMATA TALKS Presents

In Life, What You Emphasize

Multiplies, Amplifies and Unifies

For The First Time, We Will Be Featuring An Intergenerational Father-Son Inspirational Dialog within A Mobed Family from Canada

Mehbad and Xersis Dastur

We Are Also Featuring Two Outstanding Zarathushti Ladies
The BPP Chair Armaity Tirandaz from India
And Rukshana Driver From Singapore

Armaity Tirandaz holds the honor of being the
2nd Female Chair In The History Of Bombay Parsi Punchayet

Do Join Us For This Very Special Webinar

With Our BaHumata Super-Stars

Ervad Mehbad Dastur (Canada)
Ervad Xersis Dastur (Canada)
Rukshana Driver (Singapore)
Armaity Tirandaz (India)

This 24th Thought Provoking Inspirational Webinar
Will Be Conducted By
Our Very Own Zarathushti Neuro Scientist
from Cambridge University in United Kingdom
Dr. Karishma Koka, PhD
Founder, Host And Moderator of Ba Humata

Please Reserve Your Time For A Milestone Experience Of Your Life.

On Sunday, December 4, 2022
11:00 AM Eastern Time

Join Zoom Meeting

Passcode: BAHUMATA

Zoom Meeting ID: 834 0882 6220

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE
WHEN MAXIMUM ZOOM PARTICIPANT
CAPACITY IS EXCEEDED

The Facebook stream will be available at
https://www.facebook.com/BaHumataVohumana

NAMC - Online Course: Ecology in Zoroastrianism

Sat, 19 Nov 2022 19:00:00 GMT

FEZANA - THE CYRUS CYLINDER - A Timeless Zoroastrian Legacy

Sun, 30 Oct 2022 20:00:00 GMT

FEZANA has invite you to thefirst Pre-Parliament event hosted virtually by the FEZANA Interfaith Committee in honor of the 2023 Parliament of World's Religions which has given a CALL to ALL our Conscience, to Defend Freedom and Human Rights.

THE CYRUS CYLINDER - A Timeless Zoroastrian Legacy

In this event, our speaker, Sam Billimoria, will explore the Cyrus Cylinder - the world's first Charter of Human Rights. This will event will start at 4 pm EST, on October 30, 2023, on the apt occasion of the Cyrus Day weekend, and connect its Legacy of 2500 years in our world with the 2023 Parliament's Call to the World to Defend the Freedom and Human Rights of every person in this world.

Please REGISTER HERE to receive your link to JOIN this Program.

If any problems with registering, please contact Bakhtavar at bfdesai@aol.com.

NAMC - Discussion Group: Zoroastrianism Outside The Box

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 18:00:00 GMT

OZCF - Fall Soccer Tournament & Dhansak

Sun, 23 Oct 2022 15:30:00 GMT

Date: Sunday, October 23, 2022 at 11:30 AM, EDT

Where: OZCF - 1187 Burnhamthorpe Rd E, Oakville, ON L6H 7B3

Cost: $20 Member and $25 Non-Member

Come and enjoy the soccer fields at the OZCF with a fresh game of fall soccer with your friends.

All ages are welcome...

Followed by delicious Dhansak at 6 pm.

Contact: Xarius Jasavala at 905-808-2827 for any inquiries.

Sign Up For ZSO Led Fundraising Campaign for the World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in UK 2023

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 22:06:06 GMT

The Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’s (ZSO) Youth committee is actively hosting fundraising events to keep the youth engaged and involved in building a stronger community together. This year, most of our activities are focused on raising funds to provide the youth an opportunity to attend the 8th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress (WZYC) in London, UK (July 21 – 26, 2023).

If you are interested in receiving the subsidy, please show your interest by filling out this Google form or share it with ZSO youth.

8th WZYC Subsidy Application

If you would like to help out in any other way please let us know at youth@zso.org.

We look forward to your continued support.

Thank you,

ZSO Youth Committee

NAMC - Online Course: Basic Zoroastrian Prayers - Refresher

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 18:00:00 GMT

OZCF - TAPE Ball Cricket in Association with Zoroastrian Cricket Club of Canada

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Date: Monday, October 10, 2022 at 11 AM, EDT

Where: OZCF - 1187 Burnhamthorpe Rd E, Oakville, ON L6H 7B3

Cost: $10 per person

The OZCF Sports Committee in collaboration with ZCC (Zoroastrian Cricket Club of Canada) are hosting an Zoroastrian Inter House Cricket Event. Come and have an enjoyable time on the OZCF grounds.

No pad required

No helmet required

No gloves required

This event is ideal for all ages, beginners and genders.

Contact: Shiamak Katrak at 647-299-7860 or shiamak8@gmail.com

OZCF - Inter House Cricket in Association with Zoroastrian Cricket Club of Canada

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 02:02:30 GMT

Date: Sunday, October 2, 2022 at 10 AM, EDT

Where: OZCF - 1187 Burnhamthorpe Rd E, Oakville, ON L6H 7B3

Cost: $10 per perosn (does not include food)

The OZCF Sports Committee in collaboration with ZCC (Zoroastrian Cricket Club of Canada) are hosting an Zoroastrian Inter House Cricket Event. Come and have an enjoyable time on the grounds of OZCF with a season cricket ball of 25 overs per side.

Registration will close on Friday, September 30, 2022.

Contact: Shiamak Katrak at 647-299-7860 or shiamak8@gmail.com

OZCF - Bring Your Own Volleyball Team

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 16:00:00 GMT

Date: Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 12 PM, EDT

Where: OZCF - 1187 Burnhamthorpe Rd E, Oakville, ON L6H 7B3

Cost:

$175 per team (max 8 players)

$25 individual registration (we will put you in a team)

Includes food served at 6:30 pm.

Contact: ozcfsports@ozcf.com or Kevan Madan at 647-964-0059

e-transfer Payment: ozcfsports@ozcf.com

ZEDF - Applications Open for ZEDF Scholar

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 23:14:00 GMT

ZEDF (Zarathushti Entrepreneurship Development Foundation) is now accepting applications for funding of a ZEDF Scholar interested in pursuing graduate studies leading to a Master’s degree with a major in Entrepreneurship from a recognized accredited university.

Scholarships up to $ 30,000 USD shall be provided as an Entrepreneurship Development Loan for Tuition & Living.

NAMC - Online Lecture: Gahambars in Zoroastriansim

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 18:00:00 GMT

NAMC - Online Course: Introduction to Zoroastrianism

Sat, 10 Sep 2022 18:00:00 GMT

Zoro Camping Trip 2022

Sun, 04 Sep 2022 15:24:38 GMT

Full Article by Nasha Makujina

California Zoroastrian Center (CZC) - Devotion to Wisdom, Part III: The Modern and Living Philosophy of the Gathas

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 18:00:00 GMT

The California Zoroastrian Center (CZC) presents:

Please note: The Zoom Meeting will start at 11 am PST or 2 pm EST.

NAMC Podcast - Gahambars

Sun, 28 Aug 2022 02:00:00 GMT

Weekly Zoroastrian Talks - Every Friday at 10pm EST

Sat, 27 Aug 2022 02:00:00 GMT

Weekly Zoroastrian Talks

Dr. Rastin Mehri of Simon Fraser University has been giving talks on Zoroastrian Literature every Friday at 7pm (PST) / 10pm (EST) on Zoom.

Come join in on any Friday to learn more about our texts, languages and history. All are welcome to join in.

The zoom link is below:

Join Meeting

About the Speaker:

Rastin Mehri obtained his PhD from the School of Oriental and African Studies in the University of London, UK, under the supervision of Professor Almut Hintze and the late Professor John Hinnells. He holds an MA in Biblical Studies, and BA in Religions Studies, and a BFA (Fine Arts) all from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, British Columbia. He currently teaches courses in the Department of World Languages and Literatures in Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, British Columbia.

Shahenshai Farvardegan (Muktad) Days

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 11:00:00 GMT

Dear ZSO members,

We are happy to share that with the pandemic restrictions and mandates eased, this year we are observing the Shahenshahi Farvardegan days at the Mehraban Guiv Darb-e-Meher (MGDM) from August 11 – 15, 2022.

The MGDM is open and ready to welcome our community during the auspicious Farvardegan days, where we reflect and pray, remembering our Loved ones who have passed away. With restrictions and mandates eased, we continue to be cautious and careful for the safety of our loved ones and community at large and have some changes to the Muktad Observances.

Here is what you need to know about the upcoming Farvardegan days in August.

The MGDM capacity for serving lunch and dinner is limited to 100 attendees

Lunch will follow the 11:30am Satum prayer
Dinner will follow the 7:00pm Satum prayer

The following prayer performances will be in person and via live stream on ZSO’s YouTube channel.

Three Satum sessions (morning, afternoon and evening)
Afringan in the morning
Farokshi in the morning
Evening Satum and Hum Bundagi

Schedule of Prayers:

Thursday, August 11, 2022 | Friday, August 12, 2022 | Monday, August 15, 2022

7:00am - Morning Satum
7:30am - Afringan and Farokshi
11:30am - Afternoon Satum
7:00pm - Evening Satum

Saturday, August 13, 2022 | Sunday, August 14, 2022

8:00am - Morning Satum
8:30am - Afringan and Farokshi
11:30am - Afternoon Satum
7:00pm - Evening Satum

Including names of deceased in prayers:

If you wish to include the names of your deceased loved ones in the farvardegan prayers, please complete “Muktad Prayers Form” and send it via email or mail to Ervad Hoshang Udwadia by August 05, 2022.

Email: religiouscommittee@zso.org
Mail: Ervad Hoshang Udwadia, 1007 – 10 Parkway Forest Drive, North York, Ontario. M2J 1L3.

Please be reminded that the priests will only recite four names per form in the prayers. Names from the previous years will not be carry forwarded automatically.

MGDM Clean Up:

The MGDM clean up prior to farvardegan days is on Sunday, August 7th from 10am to 2pm. We request you all to come in large numbers. We will provide light refreshments and lunch. Click here to register or call/text Khushru Chothia (416) 677-7555.

High School Students and Volunteer Hours:

High school students can use this opportunity to earn some volunteer hours. If you are interested in earning those hours during the 5 days of farvardegan while helping the community, building new friendships and having some fun please contact Pearl or Spenta Chothia (416) 917-7402.

Attending the Prayers and Staying for a Meal:

Individuals attending the prayers and choosing to stay for a meal MUST register online by calling Hoofrish Patel at (647) 313-9805 at least one day in advance. Attendees will only have the choice to stay for one meal per day. This will provide a fair opportunity and help us accommodate more individuals for the meals.

For individuals ONLY attending the prayers no registration is required.

Monetary and In Kind Donations:

We encourage individuals to bring their own sandalwood as the supply at the MGDM is running low. We are also accepting donations of the same. Donations of fruit, flowers, food (Malido, papri, ravo, mithai, etc.) is gratefully accepted.

We strongly recommend and encourage members to bring their own prayer books and head covering to avoid the spread of any germs and cross contamination. Masks are no longer mandatory, however encouraged in crowded places and large gatherings.

For those who cannot visit the MGDM and wish to make an offering, please do so from the ZSO Store by clicking here.

We are grateful to all our donors and well-wishers and request everyone to donate online.

Cash Donations : Drop off in the ZSO safety deposit box

Cheque Donations

Make Cheque(s) payable to ‘Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’
Complete the donation form and attach it with your cheque
- Provide your email address if applicable to ensure timely and accurate issuance of donation receipts.
- Deliver the cheque and completed form together to our custodian or send it by mail

NOTE: Cheques made payable to ZSO are not acceptable by the bank and are rejected.

e-Transfer Donations

To: payments@zso.org

Question: [Enter Your Phone Number]

Answer: “ZSO3590”

Message: Donation For………

We look forward to seeing you at the MGDM during the upcoming Farvardegan days and thank you for your continued support and dedication.

Putli Mirza, Chair – Muktad Committee

WZCC - Get An Edge Over Your Competition - Free workshop sponsored by WZCC Toronto Chapter

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 03:30:00 GMT

World Zoroastrian Chamber of Commerce (WZCC) - Toronto Chapter is thrilled to sponsor this Summer again, a workshop session for our youth 10 to 15 years on:

Be Future Ready - Get An Edge Over Your Peers

August 9th at 11.30 AM. EST
Session will be conducted via Zoom by Global Youngpreneurs.

The need for the future is not just skills, but an approach, a way of thinking, that will help enable our youngsters to do well and succeed.

Tips and techniques to help them get an edge over others!

As the Chinese proverb goes...

"The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago;
the second-best time to plant a tree is now!"

Please RSVP your desire to have your youth join the session to globalyoungpreneurs@gmail.com or Call / Whatsapp on 647-807-2021 at the earliest.

Zoom link and details will be sent out to those registered nearer the date.

A leading mission of Global Youngpreneurs is to enable youth with key life skill-sets to help them achieve their dreams in career and life.

The End of Time: According to Zoroastrian Literature" - A lecture by Professor Carlo Cereti

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 18:00:00 GMT

"The End of Time: According to Zoroastrian Literature"

A lecture by Professor Carlo Cereti

Professor Cereti will be in San Diego on Sunday, August 7, 2022, and will review his latest research on “The End of Time According to the Zoroastrian Literature”.

Professor Cereti has served as the chairman of Iranian Studies at the University of Rome, Italy. He has been involved with Ancient Iranian and Zoroastrian studies for a long time and has published extensively. Recently, has been offered the chair of Zoroastrian Studies which has been endowed at the University of California, Irvine.

Topic: "The End of Time: According to Zoroastrian Literature" - A lecture by Professor Carlo Cereti

Time: Sunday, Aug 7, 2022 11:00 AM Pacific Time (2:00 p.m. EST, 7:00 p.m. GMT)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84000500844?pwd=RVRnYjIycmJVRjhUN1NGczM2aDhiZz09

Meeting ID: 840 0050 0844

Passcode: 078448

Ba Humata - August 7, 2022 @ 11 AM EST - Super Star Special - Being Human Transforms A Human Being

Sun, 07 Aug 2022 15:00:00 GMT

BEING HUMAN TRANSFORMS A HUMAN BEING

Asho Zarathushtra's Gathas

Please Join Us For This Amazing

BaHumata Super Special

With Our BaHumata Super-Stars

Ervad Kaivan Antia (Australia)

Ervad Farzin Yazeshani (Pakistan, India And Iran)

Payam And Parisa Khosravi (USA & Iran)

This 20th Thought Provoking Inspirational Webinar

Will Be Conducted By

Our Very Own Zarathushti Neuro Scientist

from Cambridge University in United Kingdom

Dr. Karishma Koka, PhD

Founder, Host And Moderator of Ba Humata

Please Reserve Your Time For A Milestone Experience Of Your Life.

On Sunday, August 7, 2022

8:00 AM Pacific Time

11:00 AM Eastern Time

4:00 PM UK Time

7:30 PM Iran Time

7:00 PM UAE Time

8:00 PM Pakistan Time

8:30 PM India Time

11:00 PM Perth Australia, Singapore And Hong Kong Time

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83408826220

Meeting ID: 834 0882 6220

Passcode: BAHUMATA

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE

WHEN MAXIMUM ZOOM PARTICIPANT

CAPACITY IS EXCEEDED

The Facebook stream will be available at

https://www.facebook.com/BaHumataVohumana

PLEASE SHARE AND JOIN US

FOR THIS VERY SPECIAL SPIRITUAL RETREAT

Coffee Chat with International Zoroastrian Youth – Natalie Kanga

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 14:00:00 GMT

“Future possibilities start with steps we take today, so I would encourage anyone who is interested in becoming involved to not hesitate to take that first step. We made such good connections with youth from all over the world at the 12^th WZC in New York; we have already promised each other that we will all meet up again at the 8^th WZYC in London next year!” - Natalie

Hi Natalie! Welcome to our coffee chat and we’re excited to have you as our seventh guest in this series.

Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

Hi all, I’m Natalie. I was born in Toronto and grew up in California, where I lived with my dad who is Parsi, my mom who is Canadian, and my sister. I studied Psychology/Human Health and Music at UC San Diego, and then worked as a behavior therapist as well as the manager of a music and arts school. I’m currently back in school completing my Masters in Psychology research at Arizona State University. I manage the Emotion, Culture, and Psychophysiology Lab, where I have multiple projects running regarding police stress and decision-making, exercise treatments for psychiatric patients, and music and arts interventions for children with mental differences. After I graduate in December, I plan to get a job in industry, hopefully with a health-centered tech company such as Google Health or the Calm App.

Apart from my professional life, I am most passionate about developing meaningful connections with friends, mentoring peers and students in their academic journeys, coaching volleyball teams, writing music, traveling, and being outside enjoying nature. I am lucky to be surrounded by gorgeous landscapes and beautiful people daily, and I try my best to live in the moment and appreciate all that I have!

Having grown up in San Jose, California and living between Phoenix and Los Angeles how do you manage to get involved with the local Zoroastrian Community?

Our Zoroastrian community is so interconnected worldwide, and I have used that to my advantage wherever I have moved. I love that everyone knows everyone, and even if they don’t, their grandmothers probably went to school together! I find it’s been easy to get to know the community if you’re willing to just put yourself out there, connect with friends of friends, and sometimes show up without knowing anyone. That’s when new friends are made!

Can you please tell us about your active role with the community? How did you get involved in hosting Z Camps for kids in Southern California? Do you ever have joint events with LA and other sister organizations?

I have taken on an active role in the San Jose community over the past decade or so and it really started when I attended the summer Z Camp when I was 18. I met so many friends and had such a fun time competing, putting on shows, etc. that I returned the next year, and every year after that, as a counselor.

Once people saw me getting involved, doors started to open, and people would come to me with ideas for projects they wanted to do in the community. Over the past few years, I have completed a few projects: I worked with a friend to produce a fine art photography book showcasing Parsi and Irani Zoroastrians in the San Francisco Bay Area, and the book and professional portraits were sold to raise funds for the new center. I also helped to create a mini documentary showcasing the diverse voices of our Bay Area community, young and old, involved and not involved, and from many different countries of origin. The message that rang loud and clear through the entire documentary is the fact that we all agree much more than we think we do, and we all want our community to survive and thrive.

For those interested, the documentary is available at the following YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Moghgghf_ek&ab_channel=ZThoughtsBayArea

I am also on the building committee which is working on fundraising and purchasing a center for the new Northern California Zoroastrian Center. I am especially excited about this initiative because it will be the first organization and center in California that combines both sides of our community – Parsi and Persian. Having the American culture in common will aid the unification of our communities, and I strongly believe that sharing and appreciating one other’s cultures will allow our communities to unite to build a stronger presence in North America and worldwide.

As for future involvement, I am going to be revamping the Z Camp for teenagers and moving it to be based in Los Angeles. Historically the camp has done a good job of bringing youth from all over California (and a handful from across North America and Iran) together, but we welcome teenagers from all over to attend, so please reach out if you know of anyone who is interested! Camp was how I made some of my closest Z friends and it is truly the catalyst that got me involved in the community.

How do you think you can collaborate with FEZANA and other international sister organizations to stay connected and exchanging ideas?

This is a great question! I do think our community would benefit from developing stronger connections and sharing resources. For example, there are several Zoroastrian communities in North America that have started or would like to start fundraising to eventually purchase a Zoroastrian center, however the task is daunting and time consuming. If we can make better use of our connections and resources across communities, we can save time and stop reinventing the wheel. I have thought about widely sharing the template for the documentary project, as well as the planning materials we use for the Z camp so that other communities can take these ideas and run with them. The massive WhatsApp group for Zoroastrian youth, as well as the Worldwide Zoroastrians Facebook group, are both a great start in getting people connected and sharing ideas across distances.

You recently attended the 12^th World Zoroastrian Congress in New York City, USA, can you tell us more about it and how it felt being around 1200 Zoroastrians from all over the globe in one single hotel for four days?

The 12^th WZC was an unforgettable experience! Right when I stepped out of the taxi in front of the hotel, I spotted Parsis – it was like a Zoroastrian takeover of Manhattan! I attended a number of wonderfully thought-provoking, inspiring sessions which dusted off the cobwebs of some incredibly important, timely topics. I got to experience beautiful entertainment and listen in on impressively progressive dialogue. I explored the city with old and new friends and made memories I will cherish for years to come. The entire four days were a treat and I left feeling so full of light, hope, and love for my community.

Are you excited for the 8^th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in London, UK next July? Would you recommend it to someone who has no idea what a congress is? How do you think you can spread the word and increase the excitement around the once-in-a-four-years global youth event? What ideas would you suggest for someone who wants to attend but is looking for sponsorships to enable them to attend next year’s congress?

I absolutely cannot wait for London 2023!!! Meeting the London crowd in New York really sealed the deal – we made such good connections with youth from all over the world at the 12^th WZC in New York; we have already promised each other that we will all meet up again at the 8^th WZYC in London next year! For anyone who isn’t sure about attending or who hasn’t been to a congress before, I would say to expect to be surrounded by people that “get” you. People that have the same roots, people that want to make friends, people that want to be involved and make a difference… Think about congress as an opportunity to explore a new city, meet new friends, and have important conversations about religion, culture, and community.

Spreading the word for London is honestly easy now because we are all on such a high after coming out of the 12^th WZC in NYC! I think that word of mouth is the most powerful, personal way to get people excited. So, tell your friends, friends of friends, cousins, and anyone who will listen! The London team is really bringing the heat!

As for people seeking sponsorships to attend, I would say to reach out to your local community as a first step. Our community is so giving and well connected. Even if there is no sponsorship program already set up in your area, people like to come forward to help youth become involved. After all, we are the future!

Being born of mixed races did you face any challenges growing up – with respect to identity and belonging?

I think I was very lucky to grow up with the family I did. My mom is White, yet she cooks all the Parsi food, hosts potlucks, sits in on conversations that slip into Gujarati and nods along and listens for the English… and importantly, the San Jose community accepts her and my family fully. Ask anyone in San Jose – my mom is seen as an honorary Parsi! Of course, growing up I did notice I didn’t have as much knowledge as some of my friends about certain ceremonies or traditions. I don’t speak Gujarati and I had to learn how to wear a sari from my grandma when she was visiting, and aunties in the community would help me when I arrived at parties. Despite these minor challenges, I feel so grateful to have grown up with a mix of two cultures. I recognize my privilege in having this positive experience being mixed and I understand that our community has a long way to go to before my experience becomes the norm. I stand as an example of the good that can come from acceptance, and in an ever-diversifying society, I think this acceptance is essential for a successful future.

And to anyone else who is of mixed heritage: You are perfect as you are! You bring diversity and a unique beauty to our community and most Zoroastrian people love and accept you just as you are. Your lived experience is valid, and people will listen to you and support you. You can be as involved as anyone else, you can express your voice, and you can make a difference!

Lastly, what message do you have for our young members reading this and in what ways can they make an impact?

I would encourage my generation to step forward and be a part of the movement – it is an exciting, important time in our history, and it is up to us to decide what the future of Zoroastrianism holds. What will the Zoroastrian reputation will be in North America? Will we be known for our altruism, as the Parsis are in India? Will we be environmentalists? Will we step forward to help other communities in need? All these future possibilities start with steps we take today, so I would encourage anyone who is interested in becoming involved to not hesitate to take that first step. Reach out to someone, become involved in a small way, and doors will open that you didn’t even know existed.

Thank you so much Natalie, for your positivity and phenomenal work you do for the local community. You are such an amazing role model for our current and future youth!

FEZANA - Take the GEN Z Survey

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 22:03:28 GMT

Have you ever asked...

Where do you live?
What language do you speak at home?
Are you an entrepreneur?
Do you donate to charitable causes?
What are your religious beliefs and practices?
What is your level of community engagement?
What do you believe are the community's greatest strengths and challenges?

Answer these and many more pertinent questions about your religious, cultural, and community life in

Gen Z and Beyond: A Survey for Every Generation

This once-in-a-generation survey is totally anonymous and completely online.

Sign up today

You will receive an instant link in your email or over whatsapp and can take the survey immediately.

The survey findings will be compiled and analysed by a dedicated team at the SOAS Shapurji Pallonji Institute of Zoroastrian Studies. SOAS, University of London is a neutral academic institution that adheres to the highest research standards. The final report will be written by Dr Sarah Stewart who has 30+ years of teaching and research in Zoroastrianism.

This project has been supported by FEZANA and many of its member associations since its inception. Findings of this survey will help streamline policy and activities at the local and FEZANA wide level in the years to come.

The survey is open to people aged 18 who have:

Two (Iranian / Parsi / Irani) Zoroastrian parents, or
A (Iranian / Parsi / Irani) Zoroastrian father, or
A (Iranian / Parsi / Irani) Zoroastrian mother, or
At least one (Iranian / Parsi / Irani) Zoroastrian grandparent, or
A (Iranian / Parsi / Irani) Zoroastrian spouse

All the above categories are separate and will be compiled and analysed separately.

If you have any questions, please email genz@soas.ac.uk or WhatsApp +4420 7074 5146.

Begin the Survey NOW

NAMC Podcast - Avan

Sun, 08 May 2022 14:00:00 GMT

NAMC - Online Course: Zoroastrianism in Post-Sassanian Iran

Sun, 01 May 2022 14:00:00 GMT

WZCC - Professor Dr. Zubin Sethna - On Maximizing The Nexus Between The Economic, Social And Intellectual Value

Sat, 23 Apr 2022 14:00:00 GMT

NAMC - Lecture: Reincarnation in Zoroastrianism

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 14:01:00 GMT

NAMC Podcast - Farvardin

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Ba Humata Talks - Choice With Widsom

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 19:19:00 GMT

BA HUMATA TALKS

CHOICE WITH WISDOM

2022 ZSO Scholarship for High School Students

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 14:00:00 GMT

Attention high school graduates, the application process for the Annual ZSO Academic and Community Service Award has open up for 2022.

The deadline for receiving completed applications this year is Monday, July 18, 2022. All pertinent details are in the application form.

Good luck to all the applicants.

2022 ZSO Scholarship Form

Norooz Greetings from ZSO

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 15:32:00 GMT

I would like to wish Norooz Pirooz to all the Zoroastrians in our community.

We, the ZSO board members, are looking forward to seeing everyone in person for the upcoming year.

Let’s all celebrate the spring equinox as a new beginning of life everlasting friendships to come.

Tandorosti,

Mitra Jam

ZSO President

NAMC - Standardizing Spellings of Zoroastrian Terms

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 14:01:00 GMT

NAMC - Basic Zoroastrian Prayers Refresher Online Course

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 14:00:00 GMT

NAMC Podcast - No-Rooz - March 21, 2022

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 21:18:35 GMT

CZC - 2022 Essay Contest Winners

Sat, 12 Mar 2022 00:37:17 GMT

The California Zoroastrian Center (CZC) presents 2022 Essay Contest Winners.

The contest was for youth ages 14-18 with the topic, "According to the Gathas, can one be a Zoroastrian without a belief in God?"

We received 4 entries, all intelligently written.

After collaboration with the contest judges, we will announce one winner and three honorable mentions as follows:

Winner:

Mr. Zeyus Spenta from British Columbia (ZSBC)

Honorable mentions:

Mr. Rayhan Driver from Illinois (ZAMC)

Ms. Chista Irani from California (PZO)

Ms. Mantra Roointan from California (CZC-LA)

The winner will receive a check for $300 dollars and the honorable mentions a check for $75 dollars each. Please give us a few weeks to process the checks and mail them to you.

Many thanks to our wonderful contestants, contest judges, Mr. Parviz Manoochehri our wonderful web master, Ms. Azadeh Hormozdiari for designing our flyer, California Zoroastrian Center, FEZANA, and all the religion teachers for their support.

Best,

Artemis Javanshir

Essay Contest Organizer

ZSO Covid-19 - March Reopening

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 15:00:00 GMT

With key public health and health system indicators continuing to improve over the coming weeks, we are happy to share that by following the timelines and changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship below are the revised changes to the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) drop in visits, social and religious gatherings. All reopening changes will continue to follow public health measures and requirements i.e. proof of vaccination, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.  

As we cautiously and gradually start the re-opening, The MGDM revised hours of operations effective, March 1^st, 22 are as below:

Day of the Week	Time
Monday	4:30pm - 8:30pm
Tuesday	9am – Noon \| 4:30pm - 8:30pm
Wednesday	4:30pm - 8:30pm
Thursday	CLOSED
Friday	9am – Noon \| 4:30pm - 8:30pm
Saturday	9am – Noon \| 4:30pm - 8:30pm
Sunday	9am – Noon \| 4:30pm - 8:30pm

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be sure to follow the mandatory requirements and guidelines:

Provide proof of vaccination (For large gatherings)

Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory

Bring your own prayer book , head covering, sandalwood or other prayer related items

Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet

Food and drink sharing is prohibited

We are grateful to all our donors and well-wishers and request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (www.zso.org).

Cash Donations

Cheque Donations

Drop off in the ZSO safety deposit box

DO NOT drop off any cheques in the safety deposit box
Make Cheque payable to ‘Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’
Complete the donation form and attach it with your cheque
- Provide your email address if applicable to ensure timely and accurate issuance of donation receipts
Deliver the cheque and completed form together to our custodian or send it by mail

NOTE: Cheques made payable to ZSO are not acceptable by the bank and rejected

We thank you all for your support, patience and cooperation on keeping our community safe and healthy. We continue to monitor guidance at all levels from local to provincial to federal, and closely assess any impact to our approach. You continue to have our commitment to keeping you informed, as updates are available.

Disclaimers and resources:

“All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”

FEZANA Talks #26 - The Zoroastrian Glossary Project

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 15:01:00 GMT

Global Zoroastrian Glossary

The FEZANA Talks #26

The Global Glossary was created to unify the English spelling of Zoroastrian terms used in North America. It is an important initiative launched by the FEZANA Religious Education Committee with the hope to help future authors and publications maintain regularity and consistency.

Please join Armaity Homavazir and Tashan Mistree as they discuss the work that went behind this initiative and how Zoroastrians can practically use it in their community.

Add event to calendar

Date: Saturday March 12th, 2022

Time: 9 AM Pacific | 12 Noon Eastern | 5 PM UK | 10 PM Karachi | 10:30 PM India

Speaker Bios

Armaity Homavazir

Armaity Homavazir has been involved with the Zoroastrian community from a very young age. She has participated in, organized and spoken at many congresses over the years. In 1996 and 1998, she was creator and co-director of Camp Pardis – a successful, six-week, summer camp for Zoroastrian children in Toronto. At present, she is a Religion Class teacher in Toronto and involved with the FEZANA Religious Education Committee in their endeavour to create lesson plans for local teachers. Armaity is a Special Education teacher working with students with Dyslexia and/or other Language based challenges. She has a passion for languages and has studied Gujarati, French, and Italian. She also has a background in Linguistics and Psychology. It is through her work with students challenged in literacy, and her own growing awareness of English spelling and orthography, that inspired this project.

Tashan Mistree

Tashan Mistree was fortunate to have been taught classical Zoroastrianism from a young age and has been teaching since she was a teenager. She currently resides in Philadelphia with her husband and two children and is a member and teacher at the Zoroastrian Association of Pennsylvania and New Jersey (ZAPANJ). Tashan believes in teaching Zoroastrianism the ‘fun way’, through activities, songs, arts, crafts, and relatable content for both Parents and children. She brought her everyday experience in living Zoroastrianism as a teacher parent to this project.

Add event to calendar

Join On ZOOM

FEZANA is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: FEZANA Talk: The Zoroastrian Glossary Project
Time: Mar 12, 2022 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/98328802460?pwd=K28yM3d1USs4UVdhcmRWMTJIeFNRdz09

Meeting ID: 983 2880 2460
Passcode: FEZANA

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Meeting ID: 983 2880 2460
Passcode: 050253

Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/adPibro867

NAMC - Role of Urvan and Fravashi in the Physical and Spiritual Worlds

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 15:00:00 GMT

NAMC Institute of Zoroastrian Studies

Lecture Series

Sunday, March 13, 2022, at 2 pm Eastern Time,11 am Pacific Time

Topic: Role of Urvan and Fravashi
in the Physical and Spiritual Worlds

Zoom link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82432181448?pwd=Mjh5dDJHOFJ2SmNBMXJqeXZqdnRTQT09

Meeting ID: 824 3218 1448 Passcode: NAMCIZS

You recognize this image, but do you know the Zoroastrian concept of Urvan and how it differs from Fravashi? Discover their origins in Zoroastrian texts and their functions in the physical and spiritual worlds. Learn the meaning of the symbol of Fravashi and its various interpretations.

Presenter: Ervad Dr. Soli Bamji

Soli holds a Ph.D. in solid state physics, and prior to his retirement he pursued Research and Development in dielectrics at the National Research Council of Canada. He is a Life Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and past president of the IEEE Dielectrics Society. As a Mobed, he volunteers religious services to the Zoroastrian community in Ottawa and has participated in Interfaith Activities in the National Capital Region.

For more information, please visit https://namcmobeds.org/

OZCF - Super Bowl Fundraiser

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 20:21:31 GMT

OZCF Super Bowl Fundraiser

Curbside Pickup

Menu
- 6 Wings (Honey Garlic or Hot Buffalo Sauce)
- Half Rack of Ribs
- Spicy Fries
- Bag of popcorn
- Brownies

Please email your pre-orders to jeroomadan@ozcf.com by February 5, 2022 & ensure you receive an order number.

All payments must be sent via etransfer to easypay@ozcf.com

NAMC - Basic Zoroastrian Prayers Refresher Online Course

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 20:02:24 GMT

Ba Humata Talks - Featuring Mobedyar Khushroo Mirza - Feb 6

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 19:54:45 GMT

FROM: MEHER AMALSAD, WESTMINSTER, CALIFORNIA, USA

For You And Your Family

ON FEBRUARY 6, 2022

BAHUMATA HONORS

ASHO ZARATHUSHTRA

WITH THE SPECIAL THEME OF

CELEBRATING TOGETHERNESS

THROUGH MINDFULNESS

Aa Airyama Ishyo And Other Prayers

With Immense Pride And Joy, We Would Like To Invite You All

To Join Us For This Very Special Thought-Inspiring Monthly Global Webinar Program

This 14th Webinar Features The Following Global Zarathushti Icons:

Mobedyar Khushroo Mirza (Canada)

Moobedyar Dr. Parva Namiranian, MD (Germany & Iran)

Anahita Hormozdyari (USA & Iran)

Dr. Huzan Davar, PhD (Australia)

Along With Our Very Own Zarathushti Neuro Scientist

from Cambridge University in United Kingdom

Dr. Karishma Koka, PhD

Founder, Host And Moderator of Ba Humata

Please Reserve Your Time For A Milestone Experience Of Your Life.

On Sunday, February 06, 2022

11:00 AM Eastern TimeB

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83408826220

Meeting ID: 834 0882 6220

Passcode: BAHUMATA

VERY IMPORTANT NOTE

WHEN MAXIMUM ZOOM PARTICIPANT

CAPACITY IS EXCEEDED

The Facebook stream will be available at

https://www.facebook.com/BaHumataVohumana

Coffee Chat with International Zoroastrian Youth – Farzana Khambatta

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 05:00:00 GMT

“You can do anything you put your mind to! Do not let fear put doubt in your mind– go for it, try, and if you fail that is ok. Pick yourself up and try again! If you succeed, then look around you and see who needs a helping hand!” – Farzana

Hi Farzana! Welcome to our coffee chat and we’re excited to have you as our sixth guest in this series. You are our first guest from Down Under!

Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

I was born in Bombay, India and moved to Perth with my parents, Mahrukh and Firoz Pestonji and my brother Arzan in the early 90’s. I am the eldest of 3 siblings and I have 2 younger brothers Arzan and Shazan (who was born in Australia). All of us are engineers, as is my dad and I am also married to an engineer, Ross.

I am currently working as a Senior Consultant in the (Worley) Advisory team, and I thrive on developing Worley’s Energy Transition projects. I am a process engineer with ~14 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. I graduated from Curtin University with a double degree in Chemical Engineering and Finance and have worked in both design offices, and on-site in construction and commissioning roles.

I am also currently the Chairperson of WISE (Women in Subsea Engineering & Energy), which is a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers that aims to achieve gender equity through growing the profile of women in STEM roles. Within Worley I am also the co-chair of Women of Worley (WoW) for the state. As a woman from a STEM and technical background, I am passionate about promoting women in leadership and STEM based roles which is why I dedicate so much of my time for these causes.

Finally, I am a mother of two, my son is 8 and my daughter is 5 years old, and in my (little!) spare time I enjoy reading, dancing, baking, and spending time with family and friends. I also cannot wait to be able to travel again!

Having grown up in Western Australia and not having a sizeable Zarathusti population how do you manage to get the members to attend the events? Also, what kind of functions do you all normally have in Perth? Has Covid affected any of that since Australia has kept its international as well as state borders mainly shut? Do you ever have joint events with the Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland organizations?

The Zoroastrian Association of WA (ZAWA) – was founded in 1997 (25 years ago!). As both my parents were instrumental in the creation of this association, I too have been involved in ZAWA in one way or another over the years! Most of the Zoroastrians who have been living here, have all at some stage (and in some cases numerous times) volunteered to be a part of the committee which really helps to bring different ideals and new initiatives into the community – this in turn encourages participation from the members.

We also have a Business Association of WA (BAWAZ) this was created in 2012 by my father, to cater for more business orientated aspects such as holding industry speaker sessions and engaging with like-minded entrepreneurs and professionals. BAWAZ also hosted the 11^th World Zoroastrian Congress (11WZC) in Perth 2018. This was the 1^st time the Zoroastrian congress for adults has been held in the southern hemisphere!

The associations hold functions such as Navroze, Parsi New Year, various Jashans and Ghambars, lunches/dinners, picnics, quiz nights, and the list goes on. In the past we used to also have a ZAWA chronicle, prayer learning sessions, children’s classes and activities, talent concerts/nights, a ZAWA library, cooking classes for the youth, etc.

Covid has affected some events, however in Western Australia we have been living in our own “bubble” of sorts and things have been good in that life has been normal with some restrictions here and there etc. Initially in 2019 some events did have to be cancelled or postponed in line with the rules, but everyone agreed this was for the best.

Apart from the 11WZC there haven’t been too many other joint functions that I’m aware of apart from the 4^th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in 2006/7. I was, recently part of a team of Zoroastrians from all over Australia and New Zealand that were trying to create FEZAO (The Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of Oceania). The aim of this federation was to be an umbrella body to foster more open dialogs, information sharing and collaborations between the various organisations in the Oceania region, however sadly this idea has been shelved for the time being. I hope that one day we can have our own overarching federation in our region so that we can have a combined voice like FEZANA and others.

You were heavily involved in the organization of the 11^th World Zoroastrian Congress back in 2018, can you tell us more about your role and the congress itself? Your father, Mr. Firoz Pestonji was the Chair of that Congress, would you say he inspired and encouraged you and others to get involved? Have you attended any of the other Congresses since then? Will you be attending the next edition to be held in New York City this July?

Yes, I would say that my dad (and mum) inspired and encouraged the dedicated team that were involved! For BAWAZ to win hosting the Congress in Perth was a big feat indeed, as it is a small organisation when compared to others not only in Australia but also worldwide.

When BAWAZ had initially submitted the proposal to host the event, we had asked the other associations in Australia if they would like to assist in organising the congress or to host it in their own states (which have larger populations of Zoroastrians living there). We had support from the other organisations, however none of them were keen to take on the responsibility of hosting the event at the time. It was through determination, vision, working together and good leadership that empowered the 11WZC team, to not only win Perth the privilege of hosting the Congress but to ensure it was a huge success also!

I was heavily involved with the organisation of 11^th WZC in Perth. I was part of the core team that ultimately made the final decisions as well as leading various mini projects of my own such as: social media marketing and website creation, program management and logistics, procurement of giveaways and souvenirs, creation and editing the Congress Souvenir book, overall budgeting, and costings, as well as being one of the 4 ladies who MC’ed the event over the 3 days.

I REALLY want to attend the 12^th WZC in July this year. If you had asked me pre-Covid, the answer would have been a resounding yes, as I am sure the 12^th WZC team will do a fantastic job in creating a memorable event. Unfortunately, however, I am unsure if this will be possible now due to the strict government rulings around Covid restrictions – let’s see what happens...

You were on the Entertainment Committee for the 4^th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in Melbourne in 2006/2007, can you tell us your personal experience and the overall feedback of that congress? Any highlights from that edition? We’ll be hosting the next WZYC right here in London, UK in 2023!

The 4^th WZ Youth congress was great fun, although in saying, that I unfortunately didn’t get to attend many of the actual talks and seminars as I was helping in the background. I was part of a group of girls from Perth who made up the entertainment sub-committee. The group worked for about a year (or more) before the Congress meeting every month or so and we had planned, budgeted, and thought of every aspect of the entertainment part of the event

When we arrived a few days before to set things up (we traveled from Perth to Melbourne), everything was mainly done from our end. Having spare time, we then set about helping in other areas such as registrations, coordination etc., and that was where we had lots of fun meeting with other youth from around the world.

I would recommend that all Zoroastrian youth attend at least one (if not more) Zoroastrian youth congresses - it is also so much fun, as you get to hear from various leaders who help to explain and history and culture, as well their views on topical subjects!

Your work for the community doesn’t stop there, right – you are also a part of BAWAZ (Business Association of Western Australia), previously part of the ZAWA Committee, and WISE (Women in Subsea Engineering and Energy)! Working full time and being a mum with two young kids, how do you find the time and drive to do community work?

The Drive:
I guess being involved in community work, is a fundamental part of who I am. Be it within the Zoroastrian and Indian community or for women groups within the engineering industry, I am passionate about giving back. From a young age, I have seen my parents involved with the Perth Zoroastrian and other local Indian communities... I guess that has shaped my values, goals and aspirations.

My parents also started their own business Perth Maxi Charters & Aussie Perth Tours, when I was in high school and on the weekends and holidays, I would help them with it. Working in the family business has given me an opportunity to learn key skillsets at a young age, which have helped me throughout my life. I was raised with an entrepreneurial way of thinking and balanced my engineering background; I have a novel problem-solving mindset. I love being able to create, organise or deliver something which is novel or different by collaborating with a diverse group of people from all walks of life, I love being able to constantly learn from, as well as help others all while making new connections in the process.

I have always been involved in various teams, clubs and activities throughout my life. In high school I was selected to be in the student leadership team, the debating team and was also chosen to represent my school in a student exchange program which only picked 2 girls and 2 boys from the year group. In university I was a part of various student bodies including DESI the Indian Student body where I was the treasurer, as well as part of a dance troupe that performed Bollywood dancing stage shows to raise money for various orphanages in India. Once I started working, I put my hand up to join the social club, and this is also when I volunteered to be part of the ZAWA committee. As the years have gone by, I have also held various roles within the BAWAZ committee - I was the secretary for several years and I am currently the treasurer.

The Time:
There is a lot of multitasking going on! I am constantly juggling many things at a time, but I guess it is about prioritising what is important and getting that done. I must also say that I am also very grateful that I have a supportive husband and family that helps and empowers me to be able to do my extra activities too. But like anything, “if there’s a will there’s a way”, right? I love doing these things, so I find a way

Lastly, what message do you have for our young members reading this and in what ways can they make an impact?

I really loved the tag line the team created for the 11^th WZC Perth, which was “Together, towards tomorrow” I believe that we all need to work together today, so that our futures are brighter tomorrow. I feel that this tag line can be applied to everything in life.

I would also say, (and I say this to my children too!) you can do anything you put your mind to! Do not let fear put doubt in your mind– go for it, try, and if you fail that is ok. Pick yourself up and try again! If you succeed, then look around you and see who needs a helping hand!

Thank you so much Farzana, for your time and amazing work you do for the community. You are such an amazing role model for our future youth!

Mayor of Mississauga - Interfaith Prayer Virtual Gathering - Feb. 1st

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 21:09:38 GMT

A message from Bonnie Crombie the mayor of City of Mississauga:

I would like to invite you to join me virtually on Tuesday, February 1st as I, together with the Interfaith Council of Peel (ICP) will be hosting our 3rd Interfaith Prayer Event.

I am inviting leaders across our City’s 300 religious assemblies to join us in a virtual event to mark and celebrate UN World Interfaith Harmony Week. The theme for this year’s event is ‘Nurturing Diversity’ during the Year of the Garden. I would like to celebrate Mississauga’s diversity and embrace all the ways our City, and Region, is addressing equity and inclusion. Moreover, as 2022 is the year of the Garden we will explore benefits that gardening can have on the environment and climate change, as well as on our individual health and wellness.

We began jointly hosting an Interfaith Prayer Breakfast event three years ago. In the first year our event was a tremendous success as we had representatives from a breadth of religious communities across our City and Region share their spirituality and prayers with everyone. Since the pandemic, and to ensure everyone’s safety, I’ve continued to host this event virtually. This is still a breakfast event, so I encourage everyone joining to enjoy your meal along with me.

Event details are as follows:

Date: Tuesday, February 1st, 2022

Time: 8:00 am – 9:30 am
Location: Virtual via WebEx

Please register to receive a link to join the event:

I look forward to having you join me for an engaging event. Once registered you’ll receive a link to join the event. Feel free to reach out to my staff, Natasha Mistry natasha.mistry@mississauga.ca if you have any questions about the event.

Warm regards,

Mayor Bonnie Crombie

Early Bird Registration Ends Jan 31 - 12th World Zoroastrian Congress

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 21:42:18 GMT

9 Days Left to Avail Early Bird Pricing.

HAVE YOU REGISTERED ??

Did You Know ?

A thousand Zarathushtis from all over the world are planning to gather in NYC in about six months.

New York City....the capital of the world is the host city.

And the Congress Venue is a block away from Times Square: Crossroads of the World.

Registration opened in December and folks from all over the world have started to register.

Early Bird Rates are till January 31st, 2022 ONLY. Then we revert to normal rates. Do NOT miss out.

On our registration portal you will find all the information you need to register yourselves and also book the hotel rooms that we have negotiated at an incredible discount.

If you have any questions regarding registration, send a email to: register@wzc2022.nyc

WZO - Raising Funds For Ervad Jehanbux Chhithiwala

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 23:30:23 GMT

The Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO) and the Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation (OZCF) is seeking your help and support for the following appeal by WZO requesting urgent assistance for Er. Jehanbux Chhitiwala, Boywalla at Banaji Atash Behram.

All donations of $25 and greater made through the ZSO website will receive a donation receipt and we will send the collections to WZO.

We thank you for your continued support and generosity!

Donate ONLINE

World Zoroastrian Organization, U.S. Region Ltd.
6943 Fieldstone Drive, Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527-5295

Phone: (630) 654-8828 Fax: (630) 654-8838 kayomehta@aol.com

Request Urgent Assistance for Er. Jehanbux Chhithiwala, Boywalla at Banaji Atash Behram

Ervad Jehanbux Chhithiwala, a full time Mobed 52 years of age, married with a wife and college going daughter, practicing at Banaji Atash Behram suffered a brain stroke and was hospitalized on December 26, 2021 at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai.

We were informed that the hospital has asked the family to deposit Rs.1,800,000 (approximately USD 24,000), as Er. Jehanbux Chhithiwala needs to undergo emergency surgery for placement of a stent in his brain to save his life.

Er. Jehanbux Chhithiwala and his family is in great distress and needs our help. With your assistance, we can help them meet his Medical Expenses in his hour of need. We request your generous Donations to help him recover from his current condition. Please donate generously to WZO US Region to provide the muchneeded help.

Kindly make your donation checks payable to "WZO" with a reference to "Er. Jehanbux Chhithiwala" and mail them to WZO US Region address (6943 Fieldstone Drive, Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527-5295). Please make sure to provide your email address, and phone number to facilitate sending a tax receipt for your kind donation.

Thank you very much for your Zoroastrian Spirit.

NAMC Podcast

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 01:12:05 GMT

117th United States Congress House of Representatives (Sunday, August 22, 2021) - Honoring The Timelesss Zoroastrian Legacy

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 23:19:23 GMT

ZYNA/FEZANA - Paint Night With Xenia

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 22:01:57 GMT

ZSO Winter Donation Drive

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 00:42:08 GMT

FEZANA - Medical Appeal For Nushafreen Palsetia

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 20:23:55 GMT

MEDICAL APPEAL FOR NUSHAFREEN PALSETIA

Nushafreen Palsetia (daughter of Katy and Dara Palsetia of Mumbai, India) has a Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma, double express or phenotype, an aggressive form of cancer. Last year, FEZANA donors generously contributed towards Nushafreen’s extensive treatment.

An update from her family:

Nushafreen is currently undergoing the third cycle of the treatment regimen to put the disease in remission. She is having regular blood tests and doctor's follow up. The disease is responding to the treatment as per the blood reports and her overall health is fairly good.

PET CT scan is scheduled for 29th October 2021. If she is in complete remission based on the scan, the doctor has advised to move forward with Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant to take advantage of the remission period and achieve the best possible outcome of complete cure.

Fortunately, Nushafreen's elder sister who is with her in Israel is a fully matched (100%) sibling donor.

The hospital requires a deposit of $200,000 before hospitalization for the Allogeneic Transplant.

Our family earnestly requests your kind help for financial support for the transplant to the extent possible so that she has the opportunity to receive the curative treatment in a timely manner.

Thank you very much for all your help and support throughout her treatment.

We urge our generous community to support this family with any financial contributions they can afford. A tax receipt will be issued from the US on behalf of FEZANA.

You can donate online using a credit/debit card on the link below. Select "Nushafreen Palsetia Medical Appeal" from the pulldown menu.

Donate ONLINE

Or you can send a cheque to:

Rooky Fitter
FEZANA Treasurer
PO BOX 266
SUNSET BEACH, CA 90742

Please Note: In case the family’s needs are met, then the additional funds collected will be used towards similar future appeals.

May Ahura Mazda bless you for your generous support, always.

Thank you.

Houtoxi Contractor, Sanaya Master, Hosi Mehta
Co-chairs, FEZANA Unity and Welfare Committee

CZC - 2022 Essay Contest

Sat, 06 Nov 2021 20:59:59 GMT

The California Zoroastrian Center (CZC) presents 2022 Essay Contest.

November MGDM Reopening

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 14:00:00 GMT

The province continues to remain in Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen. We are happy to share that by following the reopening timelines and changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) will continue to remain open for drop in visits with additional number of days per week. All public health measures will continue to follow including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting. 

As promised and communicated earlier, our approach to re-opening the MGDM will be "slow and steady" and "data driven, not date driven". This will be based on a number of factors:

Vaccination rates, mandates and requirements
Case counts
Impact of variants
Government Protocols

As we cautiously and gradually plan the re-opening, The MGDM revised hours of operations starting, November 1^st, 21 are as below:

DAY OF THE WEEK	TIME
Monday	4pm – 8pm
Wednesday	4pm – 8pm
Saturday	9am – 12pm(noon)

All visits to the MGDM will continue to be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by completing the online booking request form or by contacting Hoofrish Patel (email EVP@zso.org or 647-313–9805) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation, your entry will be denied.

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be sure to follow the mandatory requirements and guidelines:

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

Complete the covid screener on the day of visit and show it to the volunteer who will be on-site ( https://covid-19.ontario.ca/screening/customer/ )

Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory

For COVID-19 contact tracing purposes, you will be required to provide your name and contact details which will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

Bring your own prayer book , head covering, sandalwood or other prayer related items

Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet

Follow entry and exit signs

Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Suspended Services

Consumption of food and drink remains restricted

Food and drink sharing is prohibited
No self-serve buffet-style meals
MGDM kitchen remains closed for cooking and reheating meals

Indoor singing and choir service

Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

We are grateful to all our donors and well-wishers and request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (zso.org/donate).

Cash Donations

Cheque Donations

Drop off in the ZSO safety deposit box

DO NOT drop off any cheques in the safety deposit box
Make Cheque payable to ‘Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’
Complete the donation form and attach it with your cheque
Provide your email address if applicable to ensure timely and accurate issuance of donation receipts.
Deliver the cheque and completed form together to our custodian or send it by mail

NOTE: Cheques made payable to ZSO are not acceptable by the bank and rejected

Lastly, we want to take this opportunity and remind everyone that vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect you and those around you from serious illnesses like COVID-19. Aligning with the Government’s announcement as of September 22, 2021, you will need to provide proof of vaccination to access MGDM as required helping further protect our community from COVID-19 and the Delta variant.

We continue to review the in-person visit and event guidelines as the Pandemic and the Government related directives evolve. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we gradually, and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority.

Disclaimers and resources:

“All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”

Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

Click here for more details on proof of vaccination Guidance for Businesses and Organizations under the Reopening Ontario Act

NAMC - Vendidad – A Book of Prayers and a Book of Laws

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 00:56:44 GMT

NAMC Institute of Zoroastrian Studies

Discussion Group - Zoroastrianism outside the Box

Sunday, October 24, 2021, at 2 pm Eastern Time, 11 am Pacific Time

Topic: Vendidad – A Book of Prayers and a Book of Laws

Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82255067379?pwd=VkI2VDlJa1hyVzdKNUZoRjFsYWxzUT09

Meeting ID: 822 5506 7379 Passcode: NAMCIZS

Are purity laws and instructions prescribed in Vendidad relevant today? Would our secular society tolerate the punishments prescribed in this ancient document? Should these ancient laws and instructions in an ancient language be revered as prayers or should they be studied in their historical context. Should these laws be updated to suite our current circumstances?

Presenter: Ervad Jal Panthaky

Jal has combined his profession of engineering with his passion for Zoroastrian studies. Amongst other Zoroastrian scriptures, he has studied and transliterated the entire Vendidad. He has trained young Mobeds to recite and perform Yasna and Vendidad ceremonies as a part of their initiation of Navar and Martab. As a Mobed, Jal provides religious and spiritual services to Zoroastrians throughout North America.

This event is facilitated by the NAMC Institute of Zoroastrian Studies to promote knowledge through free but respectful discussion and debate. The views and opinions expressed during the discussions are those of the presenter and participants and do not reflect the official policy or position of the NAMC.

For more information, please visit http://namcmobeds.org/izs-events/

Coffee Chat with International Zoroastrian Youth – Zerkxis Bhandara

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 16:09:28 GMT

“Get involved and stay involved! Whether it’s fundraising, cleaning, planning, or even setting up chairs for an event. Don’t do it just for community service hours and letters of recommendation. Oh, and always wear your sudreh kusti, kids!” – Zerkxis

Hi Zerkxis! Welcome to our coffee chat and we’re excited to have you as our fifth guest in this series!

1. Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

I am 26 years old California born and raised Parsi Zarathushti. Most people know I am an ordained mobed having completed my navar at age 11 and martab at age 12, ever since I have been serving the community as a priest. In my secular life I completed my BA in Religious Studies in 2018 from UC Santa Barbara and am currently working on my MA in the same from CSU Long Beach. Currently, I am also applying for doctoral programs in the same field.

2. With your strong academic background in religious studies, can you tell us a bit if Zoroastrianism is taught in the US and how in-depth does it go?

Both the Religious Studies programs I have been a part of have no experts in Zoroastrian Studies per se, yet all my professors are aware of Zoroastrianism’s philosophical and hegemonic contributions to other faiths. As a result of not having an expert to work with, I have had to carve out my own plan of study, playing both student and teacher to be able to focus on Zoroastrianism. However, I believe change is on the horizon since North America will now have two fully endowed chairs in Zoroastrian Studies.

3. We met each other briefly at the World Zoroastrian Youth Congress in your home state of California. The attendees had had discussions on wide-ranging topics, but in your opinion how do you think the youth can get more educated on our religion, especially with tons of different thoughts and practices being followed globally?

I think we have more resources and means to learn about our religion than ever before in history. The internet is an amazing place! As a student of religion, I see so much information available about different religious doctrines, their sects, and various opinions on platforms such as YouTube. I think Zoroastrians can really use platforms as such to make learning content available to all. For example, the Iranian Zoroastrian community has a huge presence on Instagram, which has not only created a knowledge- pool but a knowledge-network of curious individuals. We can also do fun things like “Things that just make sense in my Zoroastrian house” for Tik-Tok or I have often thought of making shorts of pagri tying as a priest and titling it “The Mobed Life”. All in all, we as youth can do more to learn and teach about our religion than we think possible!

4. What kinds of gatherings, functions, and events do you have for the Zoroastrian community in Southern California?

We have movie nights, game nights, ladies club, weekly humbandagis, BBQs, but more than anything we have rituals. Every month we have at least two Jashans including the parabh and one more usually. We also have muktads for ten days, which include the daily rituals such as 5 bois, 4 satums, one Jashan, and 2 baaj ceremonies every single day. Additionally, we frequently have machis and other private prayer ceremonies.

5. You know how we have widely believed myths/superstitions about our faith and customs, can you name a few and what the actuality is?

This question is quite relevant to my current research. Personally, I try to see the sense and purpose of our rituals, traditions and customs as passed down by our ancestors through the oral tradition. In our religion every practice finds deeper meaning through spiritual, hygienic, or ontological reasoning. Regarding our ancestral practices as myths, superstition, or old wives’ tale is an effect of Colonialism, where Enlightenment thought has made it normal to question our indigenous beliefs in support of the hegemony of the colonizer. Our notion of logic and common sense finds its basis in Western forms of reasoning which do not always allow us to fully understand the deeper meanings behind our cultural practices. I believe we must view the knowledge of our ancestors with humility rather than hubris to regain our heritage’s integrity in a Post-Colonial reality.

6. What are some of the aspects of being a Zarathusti you are most proud of?

Just thinking about our religion’s legacy is something to be proud of. Having survived this long despite forced migration and persecution is something to reflect on. Despite it all Zoroastrians have been leaders and entrepreneurs in education, business, medicine, the arts, and so much more. I think for me personally as a priest, the fact that we have preserved so many of the liturgies practiced in Sasanian times in their pristine form is an accomplishment of my forefathers for which we are forever indebted.

7. Lastly, what message do you have for our young members reading this and in what ways can they make an impact?

Get involved and stay involved! Whether it’s fundraising, cleaning, planning, or even setting up chairs for an event. Don’t do it just for community service hours and letters of recommendation. Make your community center your second home and the organization an extension of yourself. Come to Jashans and rituals, these are not just meant for seniors! Help the Mobeds set up and help cut chaasni after. Even if you don’t understand the liturgies and Avestan come experience and immerse yourself in the religion. Oh, and always wear your sudreh kusti, kids!

Thank you Zerkxis! we wish you the best for your further studies and community service!

MGDM Reopening & Social Events

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 03:35:25 GMT

Earlier this month, we communicated that in line with all the federal and provincial guidelines for places of worship the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) is open with revised hours and specific conditions for drop in visits once a week ONLY on Saturdays from 9am – Noon. These conditions will continue ensuring all public health measures are in place including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.  

Our approach to re-opening the MGDM continues to be "slow and steady" and "data driven, not date driven". Number of determining factors are:

Vaccination rates, mandates and requirements
Case counts
Impact of variants
Government Protocols

We are happy to announce that we will be resuming some of our social gatherings to our members this fall. We have been doing a lot of work behind the scenes i.e. consulting various medical advisors and community peers to determine the best path forward for faith and religious social gatherings.

All visits to the MGDM will be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by completing the online booking request form or by contacting Hoofrish Patel (email EVP@zso.org or 647-313–9805) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation, your will be denied entry.

COVID-19 Protocols:

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be sure to follow the mandatory requirements and guidelinesfor drop in visits and social gatherings:

Drop In visits

Social Gatherings

Submit the online booking request form or contact Hoofrish Patel (email EVP@zso.org or 647-313–9805)

Social gatherings are restricted and limited to our members only.

Attendees will be accommodated on a first come first serve basis based on the MGDM capacity requirements as outlined by public health and government guidelines.

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

Complete the COVID-19 screener on the day of visit and show it to the volunteer who will be on-site

Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory

For COVID-19 contact tracing purposes, you will be required to provide your name and contact details which will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

Bring your own prayer book, head covering, sandalwood or other prayer related items

Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet

Follow entry and exit signs

Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Vaccination Policy:

We want to take this opportunity and remind everyone that vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect you and those around you from serious illnesses like COVID-19. Aligning with the Government’s announcement as of September 22, 2021, you will need to provide proof of vaccination to access MGDM as required, helping further protect our community from COVID-19 and the Delta variant.

All individuals visiting the MGDM will be required to provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test in order to participate in an event or a drop in visit.

Individuals must NOT come to the MGDM (drop in visit or event) if they are sick (any illness – not just limited to COVID-19)

Those who remain unvaccinated will NOT be able to participate in In-Person activities.

Suspended Services:

Consumption of food and drink remains restricted

Food and drink sharing is prohibited
No self-serve buffet-style meals
MGDM kitchen remains closed for cooking and reheating meals

Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service

Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, your health and safety has been our top priority. Thank you to each of you who has done your part in helping to support a healthy and safe environment for all.

The Board of Directors

Zoroastrian Society of Ontario

Disclaimers and resources:

“All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”

Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

Click here for more details on proof of vaccination Guidance for Businesses and Organizations under the Reopening Ontario Act

NAMC Lecture Series - Shahnameh شاهنامه (The Book of Kings)

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 20:17:00 GMT

NAMC Institute of Zoroastrian Studies

Lecture Series

Sunday, October 10, 2021, at 2 pm Eastern Time, 11 am Pacific Time

Topic: Shahnameh شاهنامه (The Book of Kings)

Zoom link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82432181448?pwd=Mjh5dDJHOFJ2SmNBMXJqeXZqdnRTQT09

Meeting ID: 824 3218 1448

Passcode: NAMCIZS

Explore “Shahnameh”, a poetic masterpiece by Persian poet Ferdowsi that traces the historical link from pre-Zoroastrian Iran through Zoroastrian dynasties to the last Sassanian Emperor, Yazdgard III. Enjoy the recital of its couplets, understand their meanings and marvel at its language, style, and vigor of narration. Seize this unique opportunity to appreciate its influence in preserving the Persian language and identity.

Presenter: Ervad (Dr.) Parvez Bajan

Ervad Parvez Bajan is the Panthaky (Head Mobed) of Seth B.M. Mevawala Dar-e-Meher in Mumbai, India. He has delivered Shahnameh recitals and participated in religious discourses worldwide. He holds a Ph.D. in ancient Avesta and Pahlavi languages. He is the Principal of Sir J.J. Zarthosti & Mullan Firoze Madressa and an Honorary Lecturer at St. Xavier’s College, affiliated with the University of Mumbai, India.

For more information, please visit https://namcmobeds.org/

WZCC Toronto Event - Meet with Zoroastrian Press

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 20:16:00 GMT

Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO) is Looking for Volunteers

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 20:15:00 GMT

MGDM Reopening Plans

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 19:06:46 GMT

The province continues to remain in Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen. We are happy to share that by following the reopening timelines and changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) will be reopening for drop in visits starting Saturday, September 25, 2021, with modified hours and some specific conditions. These conditions will continue ensuring all public health measures are followed including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.

It has been a long time since we visited the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) and we all want to return to normal. While we're relieved with Canadians getting vaccinated, the fluctuating case counts, and the delta variant remains a big concern reminding us that the pandemic is not over. We remain cautious and will continue to be guided by our progress as a community and country.

Our approach to re-opening the MGDM will be "slow and steady" and "data driven, not date driven". This will be based on a number of factors:

Vaccination rates, mandates and requirements

Case counts

Impact of variants

Government Protocols

As we cautiously and gradually plan, the re-opening The MGDM revised hours of operations starting, September 25, 21 are once a week ONLY on Saturdays from 9am – Noon.

All visits to the MGDM will be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by contacting Hoofrish Patel (email EVP@zso.org or calling (647) 313–9805) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation, your will be denied entry.

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be sure to follow the mandatory requirements and guidelines:

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

Complete the covid screener on the day of visit and show it to the volunteer who will be on-site ( https://covid-19.ontario.ca/screening/customer/ )

Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory

For COVID-19 contact tracing purposes, you will be required to provide your name and contact details which will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

Bring your own prayer book , head covering, Sukhar, loban or other prayer related items

Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet

Follow entry and exit signs

Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Suspended Services

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended

Consumption of food and drink remains suspended

Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service

Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

These past few months have been hard for all communities including ZSO in terms of revenue generation, we request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (zso.org/donate).

Cash Donations

Cheque Donations

Drop off in the ZSO safety deposit box.

DO NOT drop off any cheques in the safety deposit box
Make Cheque payable to "Zoroastrian Society of Ontario"
Complete the donation form and attach it with your cheque
- Provide your email address if applicable to ensure timely and accurate issuance of donation receipts.
Deliver the cheque and completed form together to our custodian or send it by mail

NOTE: Cheques made payable to "ZSO" are not acceptable by the bank and rejected.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation as we gradually and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority. Stay tuned for more details to follow in the coming weeks related to reopening protocols for social and religious gatherings.

Disclaimers and resources:

All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”

Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto
Click here for more details on proof of vaccination Guidance for Businesses and Organizations under the Reopening Ontario Act

Message from Toronto Mayor John Tory - ZSO 50th Anniversary Celebration

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 23:55:40 GMT

ZSO 50th Anniversary Celebration

Sat, 11 Sep 2021 20:42:14 GMT

Click on the Banner to View the Streaming Links:

https://zso.org/50years

Reminder: SOAS - PhD Survey on 'Zoroastrians-By-Choice' & 'Zoroastrians-By-Birth'

Tue, 07 Sep 2021 16:39:27 GMT

Click on the banner below to complete the survey.

Public Discussion on Installation of Cyrus the Great Statute in Toronto

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 23:40:00 GMT

The University of Toronto and Elehé Omidyar Mir-Djalali Institute of Iranian Studies presents.

-Cyrus in the 6ix-

A Public Discussion on the Installation of a Cyrus the Great Statue in Toronto

Convened by:
Professor Mohamad Tavakoli Ali Ehsassi
University of Toronto Member of Parliament

Date: Saturday, 11 September 2021 @ 4:00 pm EDT

Hailed as a ruler who liberated Jews from captivity in Babylonia in the Old Testament, Cyrus the Great (r. 550-529 BC) has been widely recognized as the originator of a multi-confessional, multi-ethnic, and multi-lingual polity in the ancient world. Also praised by the Greek historians Herodotus, Xenophon, and Ctesias, the 1879 discovery of the “Cyrus Cylinder”--which is considered to be the earliest expression of the concept of human rights--reinforced the scholarly view of Cyrus as an exemplary ruler of the ancient world.

A 10-foot bronze statue of Cyrus the Great donated to the City of Toronto for installation in a suitable public space is a way to bring the legacy of Cyrus into a dynamic relationship with Canadian multiculturalism.

Following an inspiring and supportive meeting with Mayor John Tory concerning the statue, this public discussion is intended to gauge the level of support for installing the Cyrus statue in a suitable site in Toronto.

To register for the meeting, click on the banner below.

Coffee Chat with International Zoroastrian Youth – Sheherazad Kapadia

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 16:37:41 GMT

“Don’t hesitate to share your ideas or vision for the change that you seek. Try it out, have a go, keep nurturing your passion and learn along the way.” – Sheherazad

Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

Hi my name is Sheherazad F. Kapadia. I am a Master's student in London, studying Occupational Therapy. My background is in children's mental health, and I have an interest in researching health inequalities. Today, conversations around wellbeing can often be limited to our physical health. I am passionate about broadening that dialogue, giving as much importance to our mental health, within our community and beyond.

... more interestingly, my other passions include eating chocolate, beating my brother at monopoly, and going to Nando’s with my Grandma!

Your grandparents live with you; how do you keep them connected with the local Zoroastrian community? We have a lot of senior members who are avid readers of our monthly newsletters, how would you say we could do more to keep our senior members of the community engaged and connected during as well as post lockdowns?

Great question!

For me, it is mutual. The great thing about my grandparents is their openness. We often chat about their childhoods and how the world/community was when they were growing up, and in turn, they listen to stories about the youth. This way, I learn about our culture's past, and they know about our community’s future.

The pandemic has been a tough time for many of us. However, I feel that the global Zoroastrian youth has really stepped up. The online zoom events have been significant in connecting our community. My Grandma, for example, has been able to participate in a Zoroastrian fitness class run by a Young Zoroastrian called Danny Master. This has allowed her to maintain her physical and mental health whilst also being a great social activity. A whole new world has opened-up for her and it will surely be sustained past the lockdown.

You’ve done quite a fair share of travel yourself and currently serve on the FEZANA NGO committee, can you tell us a little about your experiences? Why do you like to volunteer on these social projects? Why do you think serving on these international organisations are important for the Zoro youth?

Yes, I love to travel. I really hope to see as much of the world as possible. I encourage more people to travel, there is never a good time and going in groups can be a great way to stay safe.

Volunteering is simply something I enjoy. I volunteer on social projects because they interest me, and I am passionate about making a difference. The people I meet are also a big part of why I enjoy working on social projects. I've learnt so much from my volunteering roles personally and professionally. Volunteering is very much a two-way street; it allows me to give my time to a cause I believe in, and in return I can use my skills to help others.

How important do you think it is to work closely and in collaboration with the international Zoroastrian organisations such as ZTFE (Europe), ZYNG (India), ZSO (Canada), FEZANA (North America), UK ZY, etc.?

Collaboration is key. The pandemic has brought a lot of pain, and I believe now more than ever is our time to come together as a community. Virtual events have been a significant catalyst, allowing for greater cohesion amongst the Zoroastrian associations worldwide!

Initiatives like this are small ways to foster a global voice and in bringing our international community closer. It is also about collaborating within our associations, ensuring that we socialize across the generations and learn from one another.

How excited are you co-chairing the upcoming 8th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress to be held in London, 2023? What are you looking forward to the most?

Very excited! It's an exciting time for the Zoroastrian Youth in the UK. I hope we can pull off an insightful congress for the international Zoroastrian Youth to enjoy. What I am looking forward to the most is bringing people together, helping youth find common ground, and building stronger foundations for the future of the Zoroastrian Community. I hope anyone who attends the congress leaves with a sense of hope for our community’s future, alongside some thoughts about how they can contribute - just one goal, one change, one difference - that would impact our community for the better would make this meaningful.

Lastly, what message do you have for our young members reading this and in what ways can they make an impact?

I say, be yourself. Everyone has a strength, whether it is being a great listener, graphic designing or coming up with novel ideas. Your impact is whatever you believe you can bring to the table. One thing I love about the Zoroastrian community is our diverse skillset. We can all bring something different to the table, and I think it's time to harness those skills for growth. Don’t hesitate to share your ideas or vision for the change that you seek. Try it out, have a go, keep nurturing your passion and learn along the way. Good luck to our youth!

Thanks, Sherri, for your volunteer work and inspiring the youth.

Good luck and hope to see you all at the 8^th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress!

Re-Watch: Ba Humata Webinar Series - Khordaad Saal

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 23:31:06 GMT

Anyone who has missed the Ba Humata special webinar series on Khordaad Saal, can now re-watch it HERE.

AGM 2021 Q&A

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 19:24:01 GMT

Please click AGM 2021 Q&A to access the answers to the questions raised at the 2021 Annual General Meeting. Please note, you must login to your ZSO account in order to the view the PDF files.

Thank you,

ZSO Board of Directors

Ba Humata Webinar Series - Khordaad Saal

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 14:11:08 GMT

ZSO invites you to join Ba Humata special webinar series on Khordaad Saal - celebrating Asho Zarathushtra's birthday on Sunday, August 22, 2021 at 11 am. Included on the panel will be one of our own ZSO members, Roya Merchant.

Date: Sunday, August 22, 2021 at 11 am EST

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83408826220

Meeting ID: 834 0882 6220
Passcode: BAHUMATA

Muktad FAQ

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 18:15:00 GMT

Dear ZSO members,

In recent days, many of you have reached out to the ZSO Board requesting clarifications on the protocols and guidelines for the upcoming Farvardegan (Muktad) days.

We understand this is an auspicious time in our faith and community. However, the safety of the entire community is our first priority. We’d like to take this opportunity and re-enforce to you all that while we acknowledge the positivity and good vibes for the Step 3 of the reopening with vaccinations, etc., the Pandemic is still NOT over. We continue to be in a state of pandemic and hence we have to still be very cautious and careful of our actions for the safety of ourselves, our loved ones and our community at large. While in Step 3 of Ontario’s Roadmap to Re-open, we must all continue to follow the public health measures, advice and restrictions.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions:

What is the MGDM capacity during Farvardegan days?

We are following the guidelines as outlined on the province’s website for religious services, rites or ceremonies, including wedding services and funeral services (does not apply to receptions and social gatherings) by having the 2M distancing in place during our Farvardegan days and will be able to accommodate up to 50 people – including volunteers, Priests and care-taker – between the Dadgah and the Main Hall.

What are the hours of the MGDM during Farvaredegan days?

The MGDM will be open for visits by appointment and during the scheduled prayer times only with health & safety protocols to follow. The revised hours of operations from August 11th – 15th, 2021 are 6am - 9pm.

All the following prayers will be performed and live streamed on ZSO’s YouTube channel during the Farvardegan days as per the schedule in the Newsletter:

Three Satoom sessions (morning, afternoon and evening),
Afringan
Farokshi in the morning
Evening Satoom and Hum Bundagi

Why are visits by appointment only?

Contact tracing and capacity limits continue to be a mandatory requirement for all businesses and faith-based organizations under the provincial and health guidelines. Appointment bookings will help us maintain accurate records and ensure we are abiding by the capacity limits as well as well giving enough time between visits for cleaning and sanitization.

What is the policy for sandalwood offerings and Prayer books?

For the upcoming Farvardegan days, we encourage our members to purchase sandalwood from the ZSO as another method of donation, however, if you wish to bring your own, you're more than welcome to do so. We will also be accepting donations of the same. For those who cannot visit the MGDM and wish to make an offering, please do so from the ZSO Store by clicking here.

We strongly recommend and encourage members to bring their own masks, prayer books and head covering as it will not be provided at the MGDM to avoid the spread of any germs, cross contamination and most importantly not being able to sanitize our holy books.

Why are we not allowed to consume any food or Chasni?

The Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’s Mehraban Guiv Darbe Mehr is a place of worship and we have to abide by the guidelines within this category. In order to serve food, we need adequate licenses for serving and handling food and cannot have a self-serve buffet system. If we have volunteers serving food, whether buffet or sit down they also need to have a food handling license. This requirement is now applicable to all event spaces and banquet halls as well.

Everything we are doing as your elected Board of the ZSO is to ensure the safety of our community.

We hope this communication has brought some clarity to everyone. We look forward to seeing you at the MGDM during the upcoming Farvardegan days and thank you for your continued patience, support and dedication.

Muktad MGDM Cleanup

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 16:14:01 GMT

Upcoming Muktad Protocols

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 14:15:37 GMT

The province has entered Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen, and we are happy to share that by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship alongside the reopening guidelines the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) will be reopening for the upcoming Shahenshahi Farvardegan days (Aug 11^th - 15^th) with modified hours and some specific conditions. These conditions will continue ensuring all public health measures are followed including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.  

As we cautiously and gradually plan the upcoming Shahenshai Farvardegan days, participation in religious services during these days (Aug. 11th – 15th) will be limited. The MGDM will be open for visits by appointment and during the scheduled prayer times only with health & safety protocols to follow.

The MGDM revised hours of operations starting, from August 11^th – 15^th, 2021 are: 6 AM to 9 PM

All the following prayers will be performed and live streamed during the Farvardegan days:

Three Satoom sessions (morning, afternoon and evening),
Afringan
Farokshi in the morning
Evening Satoom and Hum Bundagi

All visits to the MGDM will be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by contacting Hoofrish Patel (EVP@zso.org) | (647) 313-9805 and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied.

As you all are aware this has been hard for all communities including ZSO in terms of revenue generation, we request everyone to donate generously by visiting our website (zso.org/donate). Cash donations should be dropped off in the ZSO safety deposit box. Please do not drop off any cheques in the safety deposit box. If you wish to donate by cheque, please be sure to attach the completed donation form with your cheque made payable to 'Zoroastrian Society of Ontario'. Cheques made payable to 'ZSO' will be rejected and not processed.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation as we gradually and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority.

Below are the COVID-19 Guidelines during the Farvardegan days as per the health and city requirements:

Do’s

Don’ts

Participation in religious services is limited and based on capacity guidelines.

Visits to the MGDM are by appointment ONLY by contacting Hoofrish Patel (EVP@zso.org)

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM

Complete the covid screener on the day of visit and show it to the volunteer who will be on-site (https://covid-19.ontario.ca/screening/customer/)

Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory

Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet

Bring your own prayer book and head covering

Sukhar must be purchased at ZSO only and CANNOT be brought from home or outside

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended

Consumption of food and drink remains suspended, this includes donation of ravo, sev, malido, etc.

Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies.

No consumption of chasni by individuals

Disclaimers and resources:

“All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”

"Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

Coffee Chat with International Zoroastrian Youth – Dinsha Mistree

Sun, 01 Aug 2021 16:52:09 GMT

“It’s really not that hard to do something meaningful. Avoid the elegiac debates about what’s wrong with our community and just do something” – Dinsha

Hi Dinsha! Welcome to our coffee chat and we’re excited to have you as our third guest in this series!

1.       Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?Thanks! I was born in Houston and grew up in Atlanta, where I finished high school. I then went to Boston for college before moving to New Jersey for graduate school. I am currently a research fellow and lecturer at Stanford Law School where I teach and conduct research on topics related to international development and poverty. I am married to a great person (Fareeza) and have a son named Hormazd, with a second on the way!

2.       You have visited Iran, lived across the United States, visited your wife’s city of Karachi, Pakistan and of course been to India. Can you highlight some of the Zoroastrian cultural similarities and differences?

This question deserves a longer and more complex answer, but basically the short answer is that everyone practices the religion differently. There are some common features, of course, but I think we have lost any semblance of a standard global practice. There are more similarities from a cultural perspective, but we are different. Even in N. California, where I am currently based, we have two Zoroastrian associations, one run by the Iranian Zoroastrians and one run by the Parsis. There is a deeper question here as to whether this is a problem, and if it is, what should we be doing about it? My view is that we must promote mutual respect. If someone in Timbuktu wants to be called a Zoroastrian, I don’t need to agree with it, but I don’t need to interfere either. Likewise, if a temple in India says, “Only these people are allowed,” it would be wrong for someone living abroad to attempt to break or change the rule.

3.       You co-founded the now popular “Return To Roots” as well as “Agiary Connect” programs, how did that idea come to your mind and can you tell us a bit more about these projects? What other projects are you involved with?

Agiary Connect came about because I find value in Zoroastrian religious services and could not get them performed when I am in the US. At the same time, priests in India are suffering economically as a huge portion of our community has left. There is priestly poverty, and I can’t blame any priest who doesn’t want to go into the profession as there is really no money in it anymore. I decided to learn more. The first question was whether it was religiously possible. I found out from my uncle Khojeste that back in the ancient days in Iran, priests in the cities would send religious service orders to priests serving in rural shrines. Then I thought about all the times that I had gotten a service performed at an agiary for someone who wasn’t physically there. My friend, Benafsha Shroff, also got really interested and we started looking out for a priest at an agiary who could help us. We found our person at the Banaji-Limji Agiary, the oldest agiary in Bombay. That’s when all the headaches really started. The Indian government made it very difficult to do money transfers from elsewhere to India. Thankfully, we figured out a solution and are now able to make things work. Then our website was subject to a number of spam attacks, which ultimately led to it being shut down. Thankfully Jamsheed Mistri came into our lives and revived the website. As we grow, we are hoping to find someone who can help us market and do advertising. Also, we are always looking for more agiaries and priests to work with. We operate the site with a few small donations. We transfer all the money we get for services to the priests and agiaries, apart from the transfer / currency conversion fees (www.agiaryconnect.com).

Return to Roots was different. Aban Marker Kabraji and Shernaz Cama wanted to do a project that a bunch of youth could work together doing. They had been asking people in their networks for ideas. I had come across an undergrad at Princeton (where I was currently studying) who had just finished a trip on Taglit-Birthright Israel. He was not all that connected to his community when he went, but he figured it was a free two-week trip where could learn more. He ended up moving to Israel after he graduated and even served for a short spell in the Israeli Defense Forces. Aban and Shernaz were instantly on board with the idea and we set forth on plans to arrange trips to Iran and India. Aban and Shernaz reached out to talented youths from all over the world. We started with Rosheen Kabraji, my cousin Kaiyan Mistree, Shireen Havewala, and myself (fun fact: Aban brought Shireen into the group and Kaiyan fell in love. Shireen and Kaiyan got married a few years ago). Rosheen and I went to communities all over the diaspora to fund the program and to send their youth. Kaiyan and Shireen handled Indian operations, which included the gargantuan tasks of planning the trips. Not really knowing what to expect, sixteen brave souls decided to come for the first trip. Return to Roots has done trips to India every year apart from 2020 and 2021. We always wanted to do Iran, but visa issues have limited what can be done. Hopefully one day.

4.       You mentioned you’re traditional in your practice of the faith, but your mother is a non-Zoroastrian, did that affect you in your childhood and practicing of the religion? You’re also the nephew of the renowned Zoroastrian scholar - Khojeste Mistree, were you always heavily involved with the community and faith. Did you feel any pressure to continue the familial legacy?

My mom grew up in the Unitarian faith. My personal view is that in mixed marriages, at least one person must compromise on the religious practices in the family. If both parents compromise and the parents try to provide both religions, then the child grows up without a strong grounding in either faith. In my case, the Zoroastrian influence was a much stronger presence. That’s not to say that I don’t appreciate my mom or my matrilineal relatives, but we were going to Zoroastrian Sunday Schools instead of church. My dad, Farrokh, and Khojeste are both heavily involved in the community and have both encouraged me to get engaged. They have both provided me with a number of opportunities, not to mention intellectual engagement on the weighty issues facing our community.

5.       Can you tell us more about your work with FEZANA and the Scholarship committee? How has FEZANA adapted and grown with the times and maximizing reach?

If FEZANA ever had a Hall of Fame, Dolly Dastoor would certainly have to be among the first inductees. In addition to starting FEZANA Journal and serving as FEZANA’s president, she started the FEZANA Scholarship program more than 30 years ago. What Dolly has done is remarkable: this year, the Scholarships will give out more than $70,000 USD to several of the community’s finest students. Much of this money comes from endowment funds and will only grow over time. I was lucky enough to receive a FEZANA Scholarship when I was studying and was honored when Dolly invited me to serve as a judge on the committee. Recently, I have been helping Dolly do some updates to the Scholarship program, which has provided me a glimpse into the amount of work she does in coordinating everything. It’s simply incredible. We are doing several things to maximize reach. This year for the first time, FEZANA’s social media team (led by Tanya Hoshi) got the word out about the scholarships. We have more than 100 applications, about two to three times what we usually get. I am optimistic that we will be able to expand what we can offer as well. Scholarship alums frequently pay back what they receive, and we have several new donors who are coming forward to support our activities. It’s really exciting.

6.       So, lots of people visit 8 Atash Behrams in a single day, but you’ve covered 50 agiaries in Bombay in a single day, how was that experience? Would you recommend it to our readers?

One day, Kaiyan (my cousin) and I were talking, and we got the crazy idea to visit all the consecrated fires in Bombay. There are 41 agiaries and 4 Atash Behrams; we also did one or two dadgah temples to get to an even 50. We started making plans. Everything would have to go just right, and even then, we thought we might not be able to pull it off. We got everything ready and left from Khareghat colony at 4:15 am. We started in Kalyan and it was a blur from there. We would do our kustis, enter the agiary, make some donations, say a few prayers, take our tilis, and go to the next one. We finished at 9:35 pm and only took one bathroom break. When we were planning everything, I didn’t think it would be a very religious experience, but I have to say that there were several moments where we really experienced the magic of the agiaries and the fires. Also, we did this activity on a random Saturday. Kaiyan and I estimated that we saw more than 500 people in all the temples. There was the aunty who goes to agiary every day, the college student praying for better grades, the newly married couple coming in, and the person dashing in quickly before starting his errands. We often bemoan how the religion is falling apart, but it is worth remembering that these are important institutions that people use everyday.

7.       Are you involved in the organization of the upcoming World Zoroastrian Congress to be held in New York City, USA in 2022? How excited are you and would you encourage the youth and other community members to attend the international event next summer?

I’m not involved in the planning for the upcoming World Zoroastrian Congress, but I’m cheering them on. Congresses are great ways to meet new people. In pre-covid times, I traveled a lot for work. When I got the chance in a new city, I like to contact some of the people I have met at previous Congresses. It’s always fun to see these folks again, plus they always love showing off their home cities. If one has the means, Congresses are worthwhile to attend.

8.       Lastly, what message do you have for our young members reading this and in what ways can they make an impact?

It’s really not that hard to do something meaningful. Avoid the elegiac debates about what’s wrong with our community and just do something. If you’re looking for ideas, organize a hike or talk people into a dhansak cooking party or go bowling. Invite the other Zoroastrians in the area. You will find a nice group of people who will become your friends. Before you know it, you will have a community.

Thank you so much Dinsha, for your time and amazing work for the community!

ZSO - Canadian Blood Services

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 14:02:00 GMT

FEZANA - Hands on with Happy Hearts!

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 14:01:00 GMT

The following presentation is Zoroastrian religion class teachers in North America. The contents of this presentation will be geared towards that target audience.

FEZANA RELIGIOUS EDUCATION COMMITTEE PRESENTS

HANDS ON WITH HAPPY HEARTS!

Fun - filled religious class activities for the young Zarthushtis

A Workshop by Vehishta Kaikobad

Sat August 7, 2021, 3 PM Pacific | 6 PM Eastern

Synopsis

This workshop is geared towards encouraging educators to create and use hands on material and get ideas on activities that make learning fun in imparting religious education to children in their formative years.

The session includes:

A glimpse at hands on , teacher made material on multiple topics.
Visual demonstration of activities, games , songs and projects related to topics such as the Jashan ceremony, and Haft Seen, or any topic requested by teachers prior to the workshop.

About Vehishta Kaikobad

Vehishta Kaikobad has been an educator for over 25 years working in the field of early childhood education based on the Montessori Method. She obtained her Montessori Diploma from St. Nicholas College, England. She was nominated and recognized by the Houston Children’s Museum for the “Spirros Martell Teacher of the Year” award in 2000.

She currently works as a Teaching Artist at the Glassell Junior School, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and also as an Educator at large, conducting innovative workshops and offering Outreach Programs.

Vehishta also conducts educational programs at Asia Society Texas Center both in the capacity of an educator and a volunteer. She has been a Senior Docent at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston for over 15 years earning the prestigious “Mary Benedict Docent of the Year” award in 2008.

Vehishta continues to serve her community in the capacity of a Sunday School Educator at the Zoroastrian Association of Houston and beyond, since the 1980's. She has conducted Sunday School Workshops at national and international level using innovative teaching aids and methods. She spearheaded the first "Kids Congress" for NAZC in 2010 held in Houston and later, in New York in 2012 and Los Angeles in 2014.

Vehishta remains dedicated to the cause of promoting Zoroastrian heritage and culture within the community and globally.

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WZCC - Global Youngpreneurs Program Starting August 2

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 14:00:00 GMT

The World Zarathushti Chamber of Commerce and Zoroastrian Entrepreneurship Development Foundation are bringing the Global Youngpreneurs Program.

Program starts on August 2, 2021, so apply ASAP.

The North American Chapters of WZCC and ZEDF are pleased to offer a “GLOBAL YOUNGPRENEURS “ online work shop for children 10-16 years of age.

We would like to get in one more program during the 2021 school vacation period.

The Camp will be run by Dilnavaz Shroff of Sapphire Global Support, Inc. It is an outstanding workshop with interactive sessions focused on pitching business plans and getting empowered. It has been very well acclaimed in UK, Canada, Dubai & India.

Entrepreneurship is the wave of the future and we want to give our kids a head start.

The classes will be held online August 2, 3, 9, 10, 17 @ 9 -10 AM Pacific; 12 Noon-1 PM Eastern Time.

It is important to make sure the student is committed and will not miss classes so as not to deprive other interested participants.

Each of the following five (5) Chapters will be sponsoring four (4) students each. Please reach out to your local Chapter at the contact info below to register.

Chicago
Mani Rao maniraogandhi@gmail.com 630-452-4068

Houston
Sharmeen Irani sharmeen_irani@yahoo.com 832-661-5981

New York
Natalie Gandhi nvania@encouragenewbiz.com 973-652-3152

Southern California
Faridun Dadachanji fkdadacha@gmail.com 858-254-8097

Toronto
Cyrus Patel cyruspatel247@gmail.com 416-550-1700

For questions and/or clarifications contact Dilnavaz Shroff at globalyoungpreneurs@gmail.com

Register now for this exceptional Program by contacting the above listed WZCC Chapter closest to you.

Find detailed information about the “Global Youngpreneurs” online workshop by clicking on the links below:

Workshop Details

Global Youngpreneurs Program Details

FEZANA Talks #23 - Muktad, the Festival of Hamaspathmaēdaya

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 22:57:14 GMT

COMING UP THIS SATURDAY

The Visitations from the World Above:
Muktad, the Festival of Hamaspathmaēdaya

The FEZANA Talks #23

The FEZANA Talks is back for another enlightening session, this time to teach us more about Muktad, the Festival of Hamaspathmaēdaya! Zoroastrian rituals help traverse the liminal space between the physical and spiritual worlds and are best expressed through the annual Muktad celebration, where the souls and spirits of the dead are invited to earth to mingle with the living.

This talk explores the rituals associated with the Muktad Festival in India and Iran and the Zoroastrian theological response to it through the enactment of ceremonies, remembering the dead. The Talk shall be delivered by Khojeste P. Mistree. A Q&A shall follow the talk, and shall be moderated by Dinsha Mistree.

Date: Saturday July 31, 2021

Time: 9 AM Pacific | 12 Noon Eastern | 5 PM London | 9:30 PM India

Speaker Bio: Khojeste P. Mistree

Khojeste P. Mistree is a Zoroastrian scholar and community builder.In addition to several journal articles, book chapters, and other writings, he is the author of Zoroastrianism — An Ethnic Perspective, and co-author of The Zarathushti Religion — A Basic Text. He has delivered more than 1,200 talks on Zoroastrianism and Parsi Affairs over the past four decades and has been featured in a variety of media outlets (BBC, CNN, PBS, etc.). In addition to his scholarship, Khojeste has created several community organizations including Zoroastrian Studies, The Athravan Educational Trust, and the World Alliance for Parsi Irani Zarthoshtis (WAPIZ). He was elected as a Trustee of the Bombay Parsi Panchayat (2008-2015). Khojeste holds an Honours degree in Oriental Studies from the University of Oxford, where he studied Zoroastrianism under the tutelage of Mary Boyce.

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Time: Jul 31, 2021 12:00 Noon Eastern Time (US and Canada)

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SOAS - PhD Survey on 'Zoroastrians-By-Choice' & 'Zoroastrians-By-Birth'

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 01:00:00 GMT

MGDM Re-opening Plans

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 19:49:39 GMT

The province has entered Step 3 of the Roadmap to Reopen, and we are happy to share that by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship alongside the reopening guidelines the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) will be reopening very soon with modified hours and some specific conditions. These conditions will continue ensuring all public health measures are followed including capacity limits, face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.

We thank you for your patience and understanding as we cautiously and gradually plan the reopening.

Stay tuned for updated communications on the reopening plans and guidelines in the upcoming weeks.

As part of the step three of Ontario’s Roadmap to reopening per the COVID-19, Government and Health Guidelines here is what will be allowed during the stage 3 of reopening:

Allowed

Not Allowed

Participation of religious services is increased to 25 people including the priest(s) and volunteers.
Visits to the MGDM will by appointment ONLY
The online self-assessment tool must be used for every visit to the MGDM
The Covid-19 screener must be completed and presented to the volunteer who will be on-site on the day of visit ( https://covid-19.ontario.ca/screening/customer/ )
Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory
Maintaining a social distance of two meters/six feet
Bring your own prayer book and head covering
Sukhar must be purchased at ZSO only and CANNOT be brought from home or outside
Follow entry and exit signs
Wedding and Navjotes will be permitted with 2M distancing along with capacity limitation and requirements

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
Consumption of food and drink remains suspended, this includes donation of ravo, sev, malido, etc.
No consumption of chasni by individuals
Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies.

Disclaimers and resources:

“All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”
"Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

Click here to learn more about the roadmap to reopening Ontario

Coffee Chat with International Zoroastrian Youth – Sanaya Khambatta

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 04:29:48 GMT

“It is NEVER too late to get involved in the community and we always welcome fresh new faces who are as passionate as us in making a positive difference by engaging and bringing the youth together”

- Sanaya

Hi Sanaya! Welcome to our coffee chat and it’s a pleasure to have you as our second guest!

1.   Can you please tell us about yourself?

Hi, I’m Sanaya Khambatta and I am 25 from the UK. I come from a business and technical background, having studied Information Technology Management for Business at university, and currently am working as a Senior Technical Consultant at IBM. I am extremely passionate about encouraging others to pursue a career in the technology sector and run yearly internships for university students and industry talks to share knowledge, skills, and expertise within the field. Being a proud Zoroastrian in the UK community, I have always enjoyed socialising with other Young Zoroastrians (YZs) which encouraged me to become more active and involved in the community. As a direct result of this, I am currently the Vice President of the Young Zoroastrians of the UK and Co-Chair for the 8th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress (8WZYC) in London 2023, which is a huge privilege.

2.   How did you get involved with the English Zoroastrian community and what drives you?

Growing up, my family always ensured that I had a strong sense of community. As a result, I always had Zoroastrian friends and engaged with them socially on a regular basis, whether that be through attending Sunday religious classes at our Zoroastrian Centre, where I had the opportunity to learn about the religion or having people over at our house. My parents ensured they always attended celebrations or events at the Zoroastrian centre whether that be Navroze, or community led initiatives etc., and encouraged me to surround myself with other Zoroastrians as well as the traditions and values of our community. These friendships continued over the years and became more and more important as I grew up. I loved that sense of belonging and being involved with others my age who weren’t just from school or extra-curricular activities. This helped shape my identity and instilled in me the values of Good Thoughts, Good Words and Good Deeds.

My main driving factor for getting involved and even now is to create an environment whereby the future Zoroastrian youth have that same feeling of a sense of community I did and to allow them the opportunity to grow and connect with each other. It is equally as important to get involved in community-based events as educating themselves on our religion, understanding their background/roots, and our traditions. I want individuals to follow the religion not because they must but because they want to be part of this community and environment.

3.   How does the UK Zoro Youth stay in touch? Social events, volunteering, meet-ups, etc.?

Pre-covid the UK YZ committee would organise and participate in several events on a yearly basis, in addition to other ad hoc activities to bring together our youth community including having our own volleyball team, Christmas ice skating, meals out, karate classes, sports days, gymkhanas, and other social activities. Every year 30+ YZs are welcomed with open arms on our annual weekend away at the ASHA Centre, within the heart of the Forest of Dean. This trip is a chance for Young Zoroastrians to engage in a weekend of various games and activities, spiritual bonding, teambuilding, religious discussions, and relaxation combined with engaging creative exercises. Year upon year this truly is one of the highlights of our social calendar as it allows us to meet and spend quality time with individuals, who we may not have met otherwise, explore our religion in a new way, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.

We largely communicate via social media pages (Instagram and Facebook) to engage with and reach our youth on a national level as well as spread awareness of community-based events and initiatives. Post- COVID we are looking to restart our social activities in a safe environment, to get the youth more involved, to expand our YZ committee, to return to the Asha centre, and to focus on the organisation of the 8WZYC.

4.   Being the co-chair of the upcoming 8th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress to be held in London in 2023, how excited are you to be spearheading this major global Zoroastrian event?

I am extremely delighted to be co-chairing the 8WZYC and we have a strong and enthusiastic team of volunteers to help bring our vision to life! These events are so important in bridging the gap between our global youth and to create a collaborative community. I hope that this congress will contribute towards a legacy for the community and provide a more sustainable future for generations to come. Furthermore, it provides the ideal opportunity to encourage the future generations of the Zoroastrian youth to work together to celebrate, educate, teach, and bond over the religion. I know we have big shoes to fill from previous years, but we are certainly up for the challenge, and I am excited to welcome our global YZ community to London with open arms!

5.   Can you tell us about some of the challenges you’ve faced or are facing with the preparations for the Youth Congress?

For us one of the biggest challenges so far has been the uncertainty that comes with the pandemic and for the future state of the world. At present, rules and regulations are changing on a weekly basis here in the UK and there is no real assurance of when life will get back to what we consider to be ‘normal’, we have just adjusted to a new norm with limited capacity events, closure of venues and travel restrictions. We want to ensure we can accommodate participation from our global youth; however, we have to factor in how we make an event of this size safe to do so in the new world and put into place contingencies if limited capacity and travel restrictions still exist

6.   I remember meeting you at the Los Angeles Youth Congress in 2019, and you shared some of your amazing ideas with me, will you be incorporating some of them in the London edition? What did you personally like about that congress?

As with any event everyone has ideas and visions and it can be a struggle to incorporate them all, however, we have been taking on board comments from the global youth, especially those who attended the last congress and other previous congresses, to learn from the past and create an even more enjoyable experience for the attendees. I still have notes on my phone from the last congress of things I wanted to remember to incorporate for the 8WZYC! At the end of the day this is a congress for the youth by the youth so we want to take their feedback and ideas on board where we can so watch this space for some exciting things to come!!

With the 7WZYC in LA I loved the fact that everyone stayed in one location. I feel this was vital in getting to know and meet others as when panel talks or events were not going on, we had the opportunity to relax in a social environment with other participants. We were able to connect with others whom we may not have been able to otherwise, as they were from different geographical locations, and often we would have ‘after-parties’ where we would all get together after an event to unwind and spend more time with individuals who we had maybe even met during the day. I strongly feel this would not have been possible if at the end of the day everyone were to go back to their respective accommodations and that would have created a different vibe and environment for the congress as you would not have built those close bonds and friendships with other attendees by the end of the week.

7.   What kind of volunteers is the UK Zoro Youth committee looking for? Also, with London being such an international hub especially for newcomers and international students how do you as an organization unearth these enthusiastic members and what opportunities are out there for them to serve the community?

We were looking for dedicated and motivated individuals who would love to play an active role in helping to grow and bond with our youth community in London. Our YZ committee wishes to encourage the Zoroastrian Youth to network, organise and participate in a variety of events and activities, catering for mixed interests and collaborate with other like-minded individuals on a national level, ensure the YZ community is an inclusive space, and to encourage unity among the YZ community.

With regards to the 8WZYC, we have several individuals on our committee who have had little involvement with the Zoroastrian youth community here in the UK and those who have never attended a congress before! London as you say is such an international hub and we have members of our team who did not grow up here however want to be actively involved in the community and get to socialise with other Zoroastrians. For the congress, we started our search by targeting our social media channels, mailing lists from the Zoroastrian Trust Funds of Europe (ZTFE), attendees of previous YZ events, and word-of- mouth. We were also very fortunate to be given the incredible opportunity by multiple global Zoroastrian publications to produce an article series that is released every few months focusing on the people behind the 8WZYC congress and our progress, while in turn reaching a global audience to attract more volunteers (check out www.8wzyc.com to read these). A lot of our volunteers are extremely excited at the thought of participating and helping to put their stamp on the congress as well as experience the more social side of being a Zoroastrian and to connect with like-minded individuals who want to serve the community. They wish to create those lasting friendships and bonds on the future of our religion, and we hope that this experience will be extremely fulfilling for them and of course for them to have fun in the process too!

8.   Lastly, what message do you have for all our community members reading this on how and why they should get involved?

It is NEVER too late to get involved in the community and we always welcome fresh new faces who are as passionate as us in making a positive difference by engaging and bringing the youth together. In a world of rapidly developing technology, it has become easier than ever to engage with the global community and there are so many initiatives and events that you can get involved in especially virtually. COVID has just proved that to us, that as community led activities and engagements were more prevalent than ever using webinars and virtual discussion forums. Even if it is just through attending an event, you are still making an effort with the community, and you could meet some wonderful people along the way! We are also always looking for individuals who want to help contribute to a successful 8WZYC so if this sounds like you, please feel free to get in touch at 8wzyc@ztfe.com or reach out directly!

Thank you so much Sanaya, for your work and service.

We are rooting for you and the entire 8th World Zoroastrian Youth Congress organizing team!

FEZANA Professorship Update

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 22:29:31 GMT

FULL ARTICLE

NAMC - An Introduction To Zoroastrianism

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 22:53:03 GMT

NAMC Institute of Zoroastrian Studies

Presents an online summer certificate course:

AN INTRODUCTION TO ZOROASTRIANISM

Faith, History, Modernity and Connections with Major Religions

Start Date: July 5, 2021

On-line classes: Saturdays at 2 pm EDT starting July 10,2021

Course Description:
This course will provide the student with a brief introduction to Zoroastrianism, its doctrines, rituals, practices, and history, giving the student a window into Zoroastrianism and its influence on other succeeding faiths and raise appreciation of this ancient, relevant, and living faith in our modern society.

Instructors:

Ervad Tehemton F. Mirza

Kayomarsh P. Mehta

Course Curriculum: https://namcmobeds.org/online-course-an-introduction-to-zoroastrianism/

To Register, please email: vicepresident@namcmobeds.org

For more information, please visit https://namcmobeds.org/

Timeless Zoroastrian Legacy - June 25 at 10 am

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 22:50:40 GMT

We are extremely honoured that Ervad Ramiyar Karanjia, Principal Dadar Athornan Institute and renowned Avestan scholar will start the meeting with a Ham-bandagi and give a short talk on “Timeless Zoroastrian Legacy”.

CYRUS AND ZOROASTRIAN LEGACY TO WORLD DEMOCRACY, THE U.S. FOUNDING FATHERS, U.S INDEPENDENCE AND CONSTITUTION

How “The Education of Cyrus,” Cyropaedia, and
Zoroastrian (Avesta) ethics and morals influenced

The Byzantine and Islamic rulers of Middle Ages
The Enlightenment ERA
French Democracy
AMERICAN Founding Fathers
American Constitution
The American Declaration of independence
Thomas Jefferson considered Cyrus as his Hero.
In the opinion of. highly respected U. S. attorneys: The U.S. Constitution influenced the Indian constitution
How Wadia built ships helped Britain defeat Napoleon in Sea battles.
How the U.S. National Anthem was inspired on Wadia built ship MINDEN

Time: Jun 25, 2021 10:00 AM EST

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82504817036

Meeting ID: 825 0481 7036

Passcode: 917646

FEZANA Establishes Professorship in Zoroastrian Languages & Literature at the University of Toronto

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 22:51:09 GMT

FEZANA reaches milestone fundraising goal of $1.1 Million (USD) in partnership with the University of Toronto, establishing first-ever FEZANA Professorship of Zoroastrian Languages and Literature at the University of Toronto

Transformative and sustainable for future generations, the endowed professorship advances the academic study and understanding of Zoroastrianism and its contributions to the world

Burr Ridge, Illinois, USA, June 16, 2021 – FEZANA, the Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America, at its 34^th Annual General Meeting announced it has reached its matching fundraising goal of $1.1 million (USD) in partnership with the University of Toronto, officially establishing the FEZANA Professorship of Zoroastrian Languages and Literature at the University of Toronto. This milestone achievement will transform and advance the study of Zoroastrian languages and literature in the Western hemisphere for future generations, and marks an historic moment for FEZANA, its member associations and small groups, and the hundreds of patrons who donated to turn concept into reality.

A worldwide search for a candidate to fill the position shall begin in the summer/early fall, with the goal to have a selected candidate in place to start their position at the University of Toronto in July 2022.

“The establishment of the FEZANA Professorship at the University of Toronto creates an academic milestone for the Zoroastrian community in North America,” said FEZANA President Arzan Sam Wadia. “In our more than three decades of FEZANA’s existence, this has been the single largest capital project we have initiated, and its completion is deeply gratifying to the entire community. What is truly unique is the collective participation of individuals and institutions from around the world. FEZANA will forever remain grateful to every donor who helped realize this dream.”

“This generous gift from the FEZANA community propels our Zoroastrian studies program as a leader on the global stage, greatly elevating its significance and contribution to the study of Zoroastrianism,” says Tim Harrison, chair of University of Toronto’s Department of Near & Middle Eastern Civilizations (NMC), in which the professorship will be based. “This professorship will help us greatly increase the number of students able to read and understand the ancient languages of Avestan and Pahlavi, and advance research and publications on the translated texts and their context in history. Ultimately, it will help raise awareness of Zoroastrianism around the world.”
The milestone project was initiated in 2019 by FEZANA under the leadership of Homi D. Gandhi, immediate past President of FEZANA.

“It is important for faith-based organizations like FEZANA to invest in scholarship and educational opportunities for their communities and the world at large,” Gandhi said. “By fostering a greater understanding of the tenets that guide our lives, we can better understand other faiths who may believe differently, and in turn, achieve a global unity based on cooperation and understanding.”

The concept of an endowed professorship was first presented in 2017 at FEZANA’s 30^th Annual General Meeting, by Erv. Dr. Jehan Bagli who had met with University of Toronto representatives to broach the idea. Dr. Bagli worked closely with Gandhi, and both devoted energy and enthusiasm toward the fundraising effort. In total, more than 250 generous donors supported the cause, including Zoroastrian individuals, associations, institutions and foundations in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Australia, India, Europe and North America.

FEZANA recognizes the following religious, academic and executive leaders for their behind-the-scenes leadership and guidance that helped advance the cause: Ervad Arda-e-viraf Minocherhomjee, President, North American Mobed Council; Behram Irani, FEZANA Fundraising Lead; Sean Elavia, FEZANA General Counsel; and Professor Yuhan S-D Vevaina, Bahari Associate Professor of Sasanian Studies at The University of Oxford.

“The inestimable and multi-generational value of investing in religious and historical education is not simply a utilitarian concern, but a fundamental tenet of Zoroastrianism to be found in every stage of Zoroastrian literature, from the Avestan sacred texts to those written today in the global diasporas,” Oxford’s Prof. Vevaina commented. “FEZANA is to be truly congratulated for its profoundly forward-thinking commitment to the highest levels of academic scholarship on Zoroastrianism, and I genuinely hope this is the just beginning of many more endowed positions to come which will reflect the geographic and demographic diversity of Zoroastrians living and thriving across the breadth and depth of North America and beyond.”

“The FEZANA Professorship in Zoroastrian Languages and Literature at the University of Toronto ensures a foundational religion, and its heritage will be studied in perpetuity,” said Prof. Jamsheed K. Choksy, Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Department of Central Eurasian Studies at the University of Indiana - Bloomington. “This is a much-needed undertaking of enduring value.”

Zoroastrians are followers of one of the world’s oldest monotheistic religions founded by the prophet Zarathushtra more than 3,000 years ago in ancient Iran. Zoroastrians have long served as bridge builders in interfaith dialogue, believing in truth, righteousness, charity, beneficence, respect and care for the environment, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

Zoroastrianism flourished as the imperial religion of three Persian empires, those of the Achaemenians, Parthians and Sassanians, and was the dominant religion from Turkey and eastward to China during those times. North America’s Zoroastrian community includes those who arrived from the Indian subcontinent, known as Parsis, and those who came directly from Iran seeking religious freedom.

About FEZANA

Founded in 1987, the Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America (FEZANA) represents a diverse and growing Zarathushti community in the western diaspora. Guided by the blessings of Ahura Mazda and the teachings of prophet Zarathushtra, the non-profit federation serves as the coordinating body for 27 Zoroastrian associations and 14 corresponding groups in Canada and the United States. The activities of FEZANA are conducted in a spirit of mutual respect, cooperation and unity among all member associations, and with due regard for the Zarathushti principles of goodness, truth, reason, benevolence, implicit trust and charity toward all mankind. Visit www.fezana.org and follow FEZANA on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @TheFEZANA.

###

Media contact:
Jim Engineer
Chief Communications Officer
FEZANA
pr@fezana.org

Download In PDF Format

California Zoroastrian Center (CZC) - Drawing Contest 3

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 22:50:15 GMT

he The California Zoroastrian Center (CZC) presents Drawing Contest 3:lifornia Zoroastrian Center (CZC) presents Drawing Contest 3:

ZAGNY - Parsee General Hospital Fundraiser Jashan

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 21:10:37 GMT

Dear friends,

This year marks our 35th fundraiser for The B. D. Petit Parsee General Hospital. Last year, thanks to your generosity, we sent a record $ 102,000. Every cent went towards the treatment of COVID patients. Every bed in the hospital was occupied then and still is, however, the hospital has carved out a section for COVID in order to manage all patients and perform other procedures. Due to the realities of the pandemic and its aftermath, the hospital has made plans to upgrade or buy new equipment. Further details refer to PGH Equipment Donation.

The hospital under the CEO Dr. Ganguly, who managed 200 military hospitals when he retired, told me when he joined the hospital, “You don’t think I can manage a 200 bed hospital?” He brought changes to the staff’s attitude and glowing testimonials from relatives and patients. Examples are shared in the attachment and on hospital’s website.

Though there were a couple of complaints, the COVID-19 vaccination distribution is well organized. The staff’s gentle manner has earned praises. Even my Jain friend’s sister, living in Breach Candy, went to PGH to pay for her shot and was very happy with the arrangement, distancing, cleanliness, and even the tea/coffee at the end was hot!

This year, we are still in the COVID state of mind. The hospital has got donors for building an oxygen plant and for the first CT Scan machine to be installed, however, they need a good A/C system first. In the words of Mr. Hector Mehta, “the A/C plants are integral towards our COVID fight. They centrally supply the whole Jokhi wing and the A-1 (COVID) ward. Jokhi wing houses the ICCU, which during this pandemic 90% of the patients are being treated for post-Covid sequelae, especially pneumonia, stroke, myocardial infarctions, etc. It also houses the X-ray dept. where CT scan will be lodged and the Path Lab, where all the radiological and other diagnostic investigations for the COVID patients are carried out. None of these departments, including the CT Scan, can function without maintaining the desired cool temperature. Your donation for the A/C plants will actually go a long way towards the overall treatment of our COVID patients.” Jamshed and I have donated $10,000 towards this project. Hopefully, this is our last year for COVID-related fundraising.

In honor of PGH, we will hold our annual jashan on SUNDAY, JULY 25th at 11:30 am, at our beautiful Dar-e-Mehr. Lunch will follow the jashan. Those who wish to attend please RSVP at 516-378-4516 or email - ghad@optonline.net. Kindly let us know so we can prepare accordingly.

What can you do?
Either click on the "Donate Now" button now, or donate by sending your donations payable to ZAGNY - Critical Assistance Fund. You can also send the checks to:
(a) us at 2686 Belcher St., Baldwin, NY 1150-3937, OR

(b) ZAGNY Treasurer, Cyrus Pavri, at 961 Franklin Turnpike, Allendale, NJ 07401-1315

Donate Now

Hope you will go deep in your pockets to assist PGH in this global crisis.

We thank our friends from USA and Canada for your tremendous support, encouragement, and generous donations for a very worthy cause - taking care of our sick and needy. Please visit PGH’s revamped website https://bdpetitparseegeneralhospital.org/ as some of the recent testimonials from patients and relatives will warm your hearts.

Ushta te,

Yasmin & Jamshed Ghadiali
2686 Belcher St.
Baldwin, NY 1150-3937
516-378-4516
ghad@optonline.net

FEZANA - PERSIS: A Persis Khambatta Story

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 14:00:00 GMT

This Saturday

Learn more about

PERSIS: A Persis Khambatta Story

A Walk Down Persis Lane:

The FEZANA Talks #22

Join us on Saturday June 12th for this exciting exploration of the career of Parsi actress Persis Khambatta. To many, Persis Khambatta was the woman who turned heads as Lieutenant Ilia in the film Star Trek The Motion Picture (1979), but to many of those from the South Asian and Parsi community, Persis’ pioneering journey across the globe was a historical moment of being seen.

The panel invites the FEZANA community to join a conversation with the filmmaker Vaishali Sinha, alongwith artists Sooni Taraporevala and Farah Bala – whose paths crossed with Persis Khambatta. Together we will explore Persis’ work and ambitious journey, and learn from each other the Persis we know. We invite you to join us as we collectively walk down Persis Lane.

PERSIS is an ongoing documentary film exploring the legacy of the unheralded model-turned-actor Persis Khambatta.

Saturday June 12th, 2021

9 AM Pacific | 12 Noon Eastern | 5 PM UK | 9:30 PM India

Speaker Bios

SOONI TARAPOREVALA

Sooni Taraporevala is an award-winning screenwriter, photographer and filmmaker. She is the author/publisher of 2 editions of the photo book PARSIS A Photographic Journey1980- 2004, a popular and critical success, now out of print.. In 2017 Harper Collins published her photo book Home in the City Bombay 1977 – Mumbai 2017. Her photographs are in museums & collections worldwide. She won a national award for her debut film LITTLE ZIZOU and was awarded a Padma Shri in 2014. Her latest film YEH BALLET that she wrote and directed is streaming worldwide on Netflix. She is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences.

FARAH BALA

Farah Bala has worked as a performing artist and producer for over two decades in Theater, Film-TV in South Asia and the US. She is also an Audie nominated voiceover artist. Some recent Film-TV credits include Quantico, Orange is the New Black, Steven Soderberg’s High Flying Bird. Farah has simultaneously used the tools of the theater in arts education, developing social-emotional learning in NYC public schools, international volunteering initiatives, and professional environments globally and across industries.

She is currently Founder & CEO of FARSIGHT, a leadership development consultancy that prioritizes Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

Farah’s speaking engagements include Yale University, Ford Foundation, Voice America, NY Travel Festival, Travel Unity, Adirondack Diversity Initiative, Oregon Shakespeare Fest, Asian American Arts Alliance, among others. She is a sought after speaker at national conferences, most recently at SHPE and SASE. Farah is also the creator and host of FARSIGHT FRIDAY, a video podcast started in 2020 in response to the heightened racism and divisiveness of marginalized communities. She is featured in Umbrage Edition’s national award-winning book Green Card Stories as one of 50 profiles of recent immigrants from around the world.

VAISHALI SINHA

Vaishali Sinha directed/produced the feature documentary ASK THE SEXPERT (PBS, Netflix India) about a 92-year-old sex advice columnist in India who gains popularity despite the ban on sex education in schools in several states. The film traveled to over 40 film festivals, won Best Documentary Award at New Orleans Film Festival, a Critics Choice Award in India, and a Grierson Nomination for Best Entertaining film.

Vaishali also co-directed/produced the award-winning documentary MADE IN INDIA about the personal stories behind the phenomenon of outsourcing surrogacy to India. The film premiered at Hot Docs Film Festival in Canada and aired on PBS in 2012. Variety called it “an engrossing feature” and The Hindu wrote “the film does not judge, it only states and allows the viewer that prerogative.”

Vaishali is from Mumbai and currently resides in New York with her husband Fred Lassen, a Music Director and their 6-year-old son Luca.

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Join Zoom Meeting

Topic: A walk down Persis Lane: The FEZANA Talks
Time: Jun 12, 2021 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

https://zoom.us/j/96651255724?pwd=Vms5UWk0bVVlWlRhd21YdENobVRUUT09

Meeting ID: 966 5125 5724
Passcode: FEZANA / 507413

Dial by your location

https://zoom.us/u/augThaiBg

Canadian Race Relations Foundation (CRRF) - Register for the biggest forum on anti-Asian racism!

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 22:14:20 GMT

CRRF sponsors first-ever National Forum on Anti-Asian Racism in Canada

The CRRF is a proud sponsor of the first-ever National Forum on Anti-Asian Racism hosted by the University of British Columbia. The event will take place over two days beginning on June 10, 2021. Join the National Forum on Anti-Asian Racism and contribute to these crucial discussions. Through open conversations with key figures in education, health care, media, the corporate world, the not-for-profit sector, and government, we’ll produce bold actions and key priorities to be implemented across the country. Participate in these discussions and help shape the fight against racism!

Click Here to Register

Canadian Multifaith Federation (CMF) - Condemns Horrific Attack on a Muslim Family in London, Ontario

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 22:13:42 GMT

Coffee Chat with International Zoroastrian Youth - Danny Master

Sat, 05 Jun 2021 05:39:57 GMT

Coffee Chat with International Zoroastrian Youth - Danny Master

“Never underestimate the power of one. If you have a calling to add value to your community, start right away. Permit yourself to begin, create, and collaborate with like-minded people to build on that idea if needed.” – Danny

Can you please tell us about yourself? (brief background)

I'm 33, and by the time I was 16, I had already lived in four countries. I spent most of my adult life in New Zealand with my family. Picked up a Commerce degree and a Post Grad Diploma in Management along the way, while working in the IT Sales sector. 4 years ago, I decided to move to London, UK, seeking adventure and growth. Turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life as I got married, sunk my teeth further into the IT industry, started a karate and fitness side-hustle, and collaboratively started a Zoroastrian angled podcast with a few close friends.

You've lived in over 5 countries; Can you highlight some differences and similarities overall that you’ve experienced through your eventful journey?

The Parsi cultural identity, which I'm far more familiar with than the Iranian Zoroastrian identity, is very distinct no matter which part of the world you're in. One of the wisest choices my parents made was to immerse our family of four in with the local Zoroastrian communities, be that in Bombay, Bahrain, Dubai or Auckland. Looking back on it, I think it was their way of giving my sister and myself a consistent community experience, no matter which part of the world we were in. That and Zoros know how to have fun.

However, while we all smile and have fun the same way, how we communicate, resolve conflict, or get things done varies depending on which part of the world you're in. That's where you start seeing shades of the local area you're in. And because it's such a subconscious difference, almost no one can prepare you for it.

Have you always wanted to get involved with the Zoroastrian community wherever you’ve lived?

This is something I grew into. Community work can often be as intimidating as learning a new language - you want to say the right things the right way. It just started making sense for me to start somewhere over the last couple years, be comfortable making mistakes and learning from them, and trusting that what I had to say or so would be received in good faith and understanding.

Why do you like to get involved, what drives you, and when did you start?

Emulating one of my idols and Sensei, Mr. Adil Sarkari, who for the last 20+ years, has run a community focused dojo in Auckland NZ, I started offering Karate Classes to the Zoroastrian community in Central London early 2020, with the full support of the ZTFE. When the classes were unceremoniously discontinued at the time due to the initial Covid-19 lockdown in the UK, I realised that I enjoyed bringing people together and adding value to their physical and mental wellbeing. This has led me to continue sessions over Zoom, while also teaching and training newer students face-to-face as lockdown restrictions eased over the past few months.

Concurrently, my new London friends and I also wanted to start having an open discussion about current and Zoroastrian-centric events/topics, which led to the collaborative creation of Zoroverse podcasts (Season 1 available on Youtube and Spotify).

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced and how have you overcome them?

Broadly, the organisational structure has been a challenge. If sub-committees are tasked with responsibilities, they should also be enabled with autonomy and authority.

What are your plans/hopes for the future for the Zoroastrian community in the UK and globally?

I hope to be part of a change in our community towards open-minded dialogue and mindsets, where the organisational structures are meritocratic.

How would you encourage the youth to get involved and what programs would you suggest they could start with? Local volunteering, World Zoroastrian Youth Congress participation, etc.?

Know yourself first. You are the most important person so focus on what you can contribute that also makes YOU grow. Is it a helping hand, skill, ability, or experience etc. Once you know what makes you happy and helps you grow, you can then start socialising with the community to identify like-minded people who you can respect, be friends with, and work with. Start small, be respectful, and keep asking questions.

What advice would you give our youth in order to inspire them to serve the community in their respective countries?

Never underestimate the power of one. If you have a calling to add value to your community, start right away. Permit yourself to begin, create, and collaborate with like-minded people to build on that idea if needed.

Thank you, Danny, for your continued community service and for inspiring future leaders.

We wish you all the best!

Exploring Spirituality Through Different Pathways - June 6th

Sat, 05 Jun 2021 05:35:09 GMT

Watch Live:

youtube.com/islamicherald/live

Q&A:

The capacity for Zoom is 300 and participants also have the opportunity to listen to the program via Youtube Live. Both sessions will be recorded and the recordings will be up on Youtube shortly after the session has completed.

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/5929544287

Meeting ID: 592 954 4287

Dial by your location

+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)

+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)

+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)

+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)

+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/acr91HVL4a

OCZF - Fall Prevention Evening, June 4 at 6:30 pm

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 05:45:51 GMT

Dear Perveen Diwanji,

The OZCF Seniors Sub Committee invites you and your family to attend.

AN INTERACTIVE FALL PREVENTION

FUN EVENING WITH

STEPHANIE SANTOS-SPRAGGETT

GET YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Stephanie has many years of experience in teaching/helping seniors to maintain their balance, autonomy and control in order to live happy independent lives.

JOIN OUR ZOOM MEETING

DATE: JUNE 4, 2021 TIME 6:30 – 7:30pm

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/93621430787?pwd=alZPVzhDZ0Y2UTJtZFE5enU5VWtJdz09

Meeting ID: 936 2143 0787

Passcode: 825962

FEZANA - Zoroastrians In The Armed Forces - The FEZANA Talks #21

Mon, 17 May 2021 01:36:52 GMT

Zoroastrians In The Armed Forces

The FEZANA Talks #21

Join us to hear first-hand experiences and snapshots of life in the Canadian and U.S. military from Zoroastrians currently serving and retired. Our panelists are officers in the Army, Navy, and Air Force and they will share their candid views on joining the military and serving their country today.

LCDR Farrokh Kapadia

Farrokh grew up in New Jersey, and was commissioned in the United States Navy after graduating from Georgia Tech in 2006. After completing initial training, he reported to the USS CHEYENNE for his first sea tour, during which he completed multiple deployments in the Pacific. He then transferred to Submarine Force Pacific before completing schooling and reporting to USS MARYLAND as the Weapons Officer in 2015. Upon completion of his Department Head tour, he was assigned to the Washington Navy Yard. LCDR Kapadia is currently serving as an Executive officer of a fast attack submarine.

Major Darius Mirza

Darius joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) in 2000 as a pilot. He attended the Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston Ontario, where after 4 years he graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering. Following pilot training, Major Mirza was stationed in Trenton, Ontario and flew the C-17 Globemaster III for 2 years. He was then transferred to Winnipeg, Manitoba where he flew the C130 Hercules for 5 years, supporting Search and Rescue operations across the prairies and Canadian Arctic. In 2015, he began work at 1 Canadian Air Division in the Operational Airworthiness Section, ensuring the safety of flight for all RCAF fleets. In 2019, Maj Mirza was once again transferred, this time to Greenwood, Nova Scotia, returning to the C-130 Hercules in the Search and Rescue role. Maj Mirza has been deployed to Afghanistan, and has travelled to countless nations around the world in support of RCAF operations. He continues to serve, living in Nova Scotia with his wife and son.

Colonel Cainaz Vakharia

Cainaz is in the United States Army, and she has 27 years of active-duty service. She was stationed in Germany, Turkey, and South Korea before transitioning to a specialization focused on South Asia. As part of her training, Cainaz learned Hindi and Urdu and attended the ten-month Defence Services Staff College in India. Her South Asia postings include Pakistan (defense cooperation), Bangladesh (Defense Attache), and India (Army Attache). Cainaz is currently serving at the State Department as a Military Advisor for South and Central Asia. She lives in Maryland with her husband and three children.

Kersas Dastur

Kersas served in the United States Navy as a Naval Officer and Aviator. He flew helicopters shore based and aboard ships within the U.S. as well as overseas. He completed multiple deployments which involved traveling all over the world. He also qualified to drive ships. Duty stations included the U.S., Italy, and India. He graduated with degrees from the United States Naval Academy, the University of Redlands, the Naval War College, and the Defence Services Staff College(India). Kersas is also an FAA certified pilot and flight instructor. After transitioning out of the Navy, he piloted an EMS helicopter. Kersas currently works as a technical writer, and lives with his lovely wife and children in San Diego, CA.

Join on Zoom

Join Zoom Meeting

https://zoom.us/j/91249430700?pwd=YkhmRUhRN0lWbWFka3VqNXFoUWRDZz09

Meeting ID: 912 4943 070

Passcode: FEZANA

Find your local dial in number: https://zoom.us/u/ac7LNDZd0w
https://zoom.us/j/91249430700?pwd=YkhmRUhRN0lWbWFka3VqNXFoUWRDZz09

Meeting ID: 912 4943 070

Passcode: FEZANA

Find your local dial in number: https://zoom.us/u/ac7LNDZd0w

FEZANA - Ava Project Presents: Family Paint Event

Fri, 14 May 2021 01:13:16 GMT

The FEZANA Ava Project Presents

F A M I L Y P A I N T E V E N T

On World Environment Day

Join us for a paint session with Parinaz Dastur and get educated on the importance of water and conservation.

Materials Needed (can be found in dollar stores): Canvas 9" X 12", Paper Plate 9" (paint palette), Paint Brushes, Knife set (optional to mix paints), Acrylic Paint Colours: Orange, Blue, Green, Black, White, Brown, Red (optional).

Date: Saturday, June 5, 2021
Time: 2 PM PT / 5 PM ET

Join on Zoom

Meeting ID: 962 0682 2622
Passcode: FEZANA

To know more about the AVA Project & get involved visit:

https://fezana.org/theavaproject/

NAMC - Introduction to Zoroastrianism Online Course

Wed, 12 May 2021 01:43:17 GMT

NAMC Institute of Zoroastrian Studies
in association with the

Catholic Theological Union of Chicago

Is proud to announce:

“An Introduction to Zoroastrianism”

Faith, History, Modernity and Connections with Major Religions

It is an online course starting on June 7, 2021.

Direct link to register for the course (G1060S-1) https://ctu.edu/summeratctu/registration/

NAMC offers to match up to 3 scholarships that North American Zoroastrian Associations would provide.

Rewatch: Power of Mindfulness - Relieving Anxiety

Mon, 10 May 2021 01:43:02 GMT

The Power of Mindfulness meditation Zoom event, which was held on May 2, 2021, by Delna Mistry, a professional meditation coach, can now be re-watched on our ZSO YouTube channel.

Thank you to the ZSO Youth Committee for organizing this event.

CZC - 2021 Drawing Contest 2 Winners

Mon, 10 May 2021 01:42:07 GMT

The California Zoroastrian Center (CZC) announces the 2021 Drawing Contest Winners.

9-10 age group:

First place: Ms. Delna Surveyor from Tomball, TX

Prize: $100

15-17 age group:

First place: Ms. Sonia Fereidooni from Irvine, CA

Prize: $100

Honorable mention: Ms. Arnaz Irani from Sugarland, TX

Prize: $50

Due to the pandemic and slow flow of mail, please give about a month for the prizes to arrive in mail.

Drawing-3 Contest will begin in June. Please look for the email and looking forward to your amazing works of art.

Much appreciation,

Artemis Javanshir

Drawing Contest Organizer

Happy Mother's Day

Mon, 10 May 2021 01:41:20 GMT

Wishing moms from every walk of life A Happy Mother's Day filled with much love ❤️!

On behalf of the ZSO Board of Directors,

Mashya Amroliwalla
President
Zoroastrian Society of Ontario

OCZF - Morning With The Stars

Mon, 03 May 2021 23:02:08 GMT

The OZCF fundraising committee presents.

Morning With The Stars

WHAT

- Space Yoga
- Story time from the International Space Station
- Astronomy in Action Live Presentation followed by Q & A
- Interact with a Planetary Scientist - Live presentation followed by Q & A
- A planetarium tour

WHEN - 9.30 AM - 2.00 PM EDT ON Saturday May 15^th, 2021

COST - $10 for the first 2 participants $5 thereafter for additional
participants

WHO - Kids, Parents, Grandparents

HOW - Send an email to Armaity Anandasagar - armaity.a@gmail.com
to Register by May 9, 2021

WHERE - Lounging in your PJs in your living room and having any drink
or snack of your choice.

Summer Student Jobs - Deadline May 5

Mon, 03 May 2021 20:42:58 GMT

The Regional Diversity Roundtable of Peel (RDR) is looking for enthusiastic Summer Students to join their team as a Communications Officer and Education Program Coordinator at their Peel Regional Office. Deadline to apply is May 5.

Communications Officer Application

Education Program Coordinator Application

FEZANA Scholarship Applications Now Open

Mon, 03 May 2021 20:42:34 GMT

2021 FEZANA Scholarship Application Now Open

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS IN ALL CATEGORIES
Did you know that FEZANA awards more than $70,000 in scholarships every year? FEZANA Scholarships are available for students in the following categories: graduate studies, undergraduate studies, performing and creative arts, culinary arts, and sports.

Scholarships range from $1,000 to $10,000 and are based on academic standing, community service, and financial need. The application portal is now open and will close on July 1, 2021 at 23.59. EST. For more information and for the application, please visit: https://fezana.org/scholarships/

NAMC - Amesha Spenta – A Stairway from Physical to Spiritual

Mon, 03 May 2021 20:42:12 GMT

NAMC Institute of Zoroastrian Studies

Lecture Series

Sunday, May 9, 2021, at 2 pm Eastern Time, 11 am Pacific Time

Topic: Amesha Spenta – A Stairway from Physical to Spiritual

Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/95628797294?pwd=WGZuVXdwSEt3MitEc1U2S092REQzdz09

Meeting ID: 956 2879 7294 Passcode: NAMC

The talk will elaborate on the Divine level of the Holy Immortals with references from Older and Younger Avestan texts. It will further describe in detail the implications of each of the emanations to demonstrate how one ascends the steps of the Divine staircase to transform oneself to the highest spiritual level.

Presenter: Dr. Ervad. Jehan Bagli

Ervad Jehan Bagli retired as Distinguished Research Fellow of Wyeth/Ayrest Pharmaceutical Research. He was a founding member and President of Zoroastrian Association of Quebec and the editor of Gavashni, a North American Zarathushti publication, for 16 years. He has published six books and lectured extensively on various aspects of the Zoroastrian religion in North America and abroad.

For more information, please visit https://namcmobeds.org/

ZSO Youth Committee Survey

Mon, 03 May 2021 20:41:28 GMT

ZSO Youth Committee wants YOUR feedback! Fill out this short 3 question survey to let us know what you think about our events and how we can improve in future events!

Survey Link

2021 ZSO Scholarship for High School Students

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 21:15:00 GMT

ZSO's Academic and Community Service Excellence Award for High School Students Scholarship has open up for 2021. Click on the link below.

2021 ZSO Scholarship Form

WZO - An Appeal For Zoroastrians In Economic Distress Due To Covid Pandemic

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 20:59:32 GMT

World Zoroastrian Organization, U.S. Region Ltd.
6943 Fieldstone Drive, Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527-5295

Phone: (630) 654-8828 Fax: (630) 654-8838 kayomehta@aol.com

Zarathushtis in India are continuing to suffer severely from the brunt and after effects of the Corona virus. WZO Trust, India has been extremely busy assisting affected individuals. By the end of September, assistance was provided to over two thousand (2,295) recipients. This aid was provided as payments to Hospitals, Purchase of ventilators, aid to individuals in economic distress and in the form of distribution of food grains to the needy. The need to continue these forms of aid is absolutely imperative with the onslaught of the second wave of the Corona virus.

Every day there are requests from individuals and institutions who have been financially impacted due to the Pandemic - either medically, or by way of, loss of income.

We will best be able to extend support for community members affected by the pandemic:

a) Providing financial support to full time Mobeds that work at Agiyaries on a daily wages basis and were unable to carry out duties due to the lockdown and Agiyaries remaining shut.

b) Individuals who have lost their jobs or suffered cuts in salaries.

c) Business men and entrepreneurs who have suffered losses.

d) Zoroastrian agrarians suffering losses on account of being unable to transport their produce; poor Zoroastrians who have brick kilns, cattle dairy farms, poultry farms and the like.

e) Distributing foods grains in cities, towns and villages to the needy.

f) Providing Oxygen and equipment to hospitals. A single Ventilator costs USD10,000.

The task is humongous but we are determined to play a very proactive role and do our very best.

The recovery period is still very distant but WZO is committed to continue their mission to provide the needed support to the affected individuals.

They need our help. With your assistance, we can help our fellow community members in their hour of need. We request your generous Donations to help them during this terrible pandemic situation. Please donate generously to WZO US Region to provide the much needed help. Your donation will enable our fellow Zarathushtis mitigate and survive this disaster. Kindly make your donation checks payable to "WZO" with a reference to "Corona” and mail them to WZO US Region address. Please make sure to provide your mailing address, email and phone number to facilitate receipt for your kind donation.

WZO

Corona

6943 Fieldstone Drive

Burr Ridge IL 60527-5295

USA

Thank you very much for your Zoroastrian Spirit.

With kind regards,

Kayomarsh P. Mehta

President

Ushta ahmai yahamai ushta kahmai-chit.

Happiness to him, who make others Happy. Ushtavaiti Gatha, Yasna 43.

Ba Humata Webinar Series - May 2

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 23:26:37 GMT

Parsi Natak (Part 2)

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 23:26:04 GMT

With overwhelming request, we bring part 2 of the Natak to you. Looking forward to your virtual company on Friday.

Zoom Link:
https://zoom.us/j/93984255222?pwd=NWFBOWw3RjdDdzZuVm5uRm83bytLdz09

Meeting ID: 939 8425 5222

Passcode: 397284

ZSO Annual General Meeting: 2021

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 04:30:31 GMT

This year – subject to prevalent conditions – the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario’s Annual General Meeting will be held on Sunday, July 18, 2021 at 11 AM Eastern Time.

The backbone of any religious not-for-profit charity, such as ZSO, is its membership. And ZSO is blessed to have a wealth of selfless, dedicated and talented members, like you, passionate about volunteering to serve and strengthen our vibrant Zoroastrian community together.

Your Board is excited to confirm the following positions become vacant at the upcoming AGM:

President – 2 Year Term

Vice President – 2 Year Term

Secretary – 2 Year Term

Assistant Treasurer – 2 Year Term

Executive Officer 2 – 2 Year Term (1 Year if filled by outgoing President)

Assistant Secretary – 1 Year Term

If you’ve ever wanted to showcase your talent, air your ideas and collaborate with passionate fellow Zoroastrians, in Ontario, across North America and around the world, complete a nomination form as the first step to bring your vision to life!

Oh and did we mention, this year ZSO proudly completes its 50th year…. Yes, it’s the organization’s Golden Jubilee year; such a memorable milestone in our ongoing journey!

We certainly feel tremendous gratitude to the visionary founders and volunteers who have achieved so much for ZSO in it’s first 50 years. And by the Grace of Ahura Mazda, we are thrilled to start the next 50 years and more, with you leading the way to realize the vision of the next generation! So what are you waiting for? Just complete and mail the nomination form to the address below or email to secretary@zso.org by 11 AM Eastern Time on Sunday, June 13, 2021:

Secretary

Zoroastrian Society of Ontario

3590 Bayview Ave

Toronto ON M2M 3S6

It’s your turn to make a positive impact on our shared Zoroastrian destiny!

WZCC - Recruitment & Career Strategies Workshop

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 02:18:37 GMT

As a tiny glimmer of hope brightens on the horizon with businesses starting to reopen, and life slowly resuming back to a semblance of normality… WZCC Toronto, jointly with Project, “Jobs for Every Zoro”, proudly announces a webinar on Recruitment & Career Strategies.

Is your resume/CV invisible?

Tune in for the keys to getting on the recruiter’s or HR Manager’s shortlist.

Need help finding the right career?

Listen in to the Methodology of the Job Search

Sign up to attend the “Recruitment & Career Strategies Workshop” with WZCC Toronto Chapter, here:

https://wzcc-toronto.ticketspice.com/recruitment-and-career-strategies

Speakers:

Havovi Patel has over 15 years of corporate experience in the financial services sector. By virtue of her experience in HR, Learning & Development, and business development roles, she has a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by the corporate world. As a life coach, she supports individuals in facilitating positive change towards reaching their full potential.

Zubin Treasuryvala is Director & CEO of Treasure Hunters People Solutions. He has over 15 years of National Talent Acquisition expertise and is a Master Head-hunter & Talent Acquisition specialist. He has conducted more than 5,000 interviews across the board.

Event Date: Saturday, May 8th, 2021 @ 10:30 AM EST

Saturday, May 8thth, 2021 @ 8:00PM IST

Fee: $6.00 Non-Members

Complimentary for Member

Any questions? Please contact: wzcctoronto@gmail.com

OZCF - Zoroastrians & UNICEF Help to Fight COVID

Sun, 18 Apr 2021 01:59:58 GMT

The Board of Directors of the Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation are excited to share the news of our support of a nationwide project called Love My Neighbour, inspired by Millennium Kids and Canadian faith communities, which exists to increase COVID vaccines delivered throughout the developing world to end the COVID-19 pandemics.

The Love My Neighbor project has a goal to supply 38 million additional vaccines to our neighbors living in lower- income countries – that’s one for each grateful Canadian. We know delayed vaccinations in poor regions around the world put everyone at risk of additional COVID mutations for years to come.

Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation is committed to support this project as part of Canadian faith communities in an effort to ensure the world’s most vulnerable people have access to the COVID-19 vaccine.

We are asking our CANADIAN Zoroastrian communities to support this worthy cause. The OZCF has formed a support web page titled “Zoroastrians for Love My Neighbour” and will also be encouraging other Zoroastrian organizations in Canada to support this worthwhile initiative. As a community of Canadian Zoroastrians, we are attempting to raise

$25,000 which will help administer approximately 1000 vaccines to those in need.

You will receive a tax receipt from UNICEF. That's where YOU come in!

As of April 16, you, your friends, family and/or colleagues can donate to our “Zoroastrians for Love My Neighbour” project in partnership with UNICEF Canada. Each 2-dose vaccine will amount to a donation of $25 for a global neighbour. We need to spread the word across Canada in order to ignite the generosity Canadians are known for and ensure our poorest 4 billion global neighbours receive access to the lifesaving COVID vaccines in 2021. (The global partnership, COVAX, is currently aiming to vaccinate only 20% of this half of the globe in 2021!)

Each donation will fund everything needed to deliver a 2-dose vaccine from the manufacturer to people in the world’s hardest-to-reach places. This includes the vaccines, per-person cost for transport, cold chain protection, health worker training, and safe disposal of needles and waste.

How you can help!

Donate HERE

This will help us track monies donated by Zoroastrians towards this cause.

Remember, all donors will receive tax receipts from UNICEF

Join us in gifting forward, as we leverage our connections to end the global pandemic and help those most vulnerable.

On behalf of the OZCF Board, thank you for your support and generosity.

Xerxes Madan,

President, OZCF

Call For ZYNA Representatives

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 22:31:31 GMT

ZSO is looking for two Zarathusti Youth (16-35 years of age) to represent ZSO on the ZYNA Committee (FEZANA sub-committee). Deadline is April 23, 2021.

For any questions, please email Zamyad Meherji (AsstSecretary@zso.org).

Apply Online

Norooz 2021 & MGDM Visits

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 02:31:30 GMT

March 18, 2021

In recent days, many of our members have reached out to the ZSO Board requesting drop in visits to the MGDM. While we empathize with you all and the community at large, at this point as your elected board we do not consider it an appropriate time to reopen the Darbe Mehr for drop in visits.

We understand this is an auspicious time in our faith and community. However, the safety of the entire community is our first priority.

We will continue to accept requests for candles and sandalwood offerings on your behalf and livestream all religious events via our YouTube channel. Click here to submit your requests and to make arrangements for sandalwood and candle offerings

We continue to keep abreast of the Government health requirements very closely and will work diligently on the reopening plans keeping safety of the community our top priority.

With best wishes for A Happy, Healthy and Prosperous Norooz.

Norooz Pirooz!

Board of Directors

Zoroastrian Society of Ontario

Renewed Donation Appeal for ZSO's Operational Costs

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 21:10:25 GMT

We are so very encouraged with the overwhelming response to our initial appeal for donations, to supplement the ZSO’s income during the pandemic.

We had established an ambitious target of $10,000 to be collected over 2 months, i.e., by the end of January. With your generosity, kind hearts and Zoroastrian spirit, your Board is pleased to inform you that total donations received exceeded our goal. We have collected $13,500.

The ZSO current financial year ends on March 31, 2021 and the Board of Directors has launched a second appeal for donations, having set a target of $25,000 to be collected by March 31, 2021, to be directed once again towards ZSOs operating costs. Donations can be made online at ZSO.org/Donate using your PayPal account or credit card as well as by cheque made payable to “Zoroastrian Society of Ontario”. We are certain that fellow Zarthushtis will rise to the occasion once again and open their hearts to keep our shining Darbe Mehr blessing all of us for generations to come.

Many members have inquired of ways that they can have candles lit on their behalf at the DM as well as offer sukhad to the fire during this continued lockdown. If you wish to avail of this service to light candles and offer sukhad on your behalf, we are pleased to offer a package to have 2 candles lit and offer 2 pieces of sukhad for $20. If you are interested in availing of this arrangement, please go to the ZSO website or contact the Assistant Treasurer Mehrnaz Dehmiri by email at assttreasurer@zso.org or Kersi Khambatta, Chairperson of the House & Garden Committee at goldkk101@hotmail.com or call him at 416-496-8285 with your name and date you wish to have the candles lit and sukhad offered, while supplies last. We also welcome donations of sukhad to replenish the available stock.

We look forward to your participation and will be grateful to you to spread the word for this donation initiative, with no amount being too small or too large, in support of your Darbe Mehr.

Thank you.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Mashya Amroliwalla
President
Zoroastrian Society of Ontario

Province Update: Safer at Home Programs Provide Relief to Ontario Families

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 21:22:30 GMT

Direct link to provincial website message link, click here.

Province Expands Support for Learners Program and Lowers Hydro Bills

Toronto — The Ontario government is providing new financial supports for individuals, families and small businesses, as they do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19 and protect the province's health care system during the Provincewide Shutdown. The province is expanding the Support for Learners program to include secondary school students and lowering electricity prices to a discounted off-peak rate 24/7 for all time-of-use and tiered customers.

Details were provided today by Premier Doug Ford, Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, and Bill Walker, Associate Minister of Energy.

"We are asking people to make greater sacrifices to help contain this deadly virus, whether that's staying home or asking their employees to work from home where possible," said Premier Ford. "In response, our government is providing people and businesses with additional financial relief to help them get through this very difficult period."

In January 2021, students aged 13 through Grade 12 will be eligible for funding under an expanded Support for Learners program. Parents or guardians will receive a one-time payment of $200 per eligible student to help offset education expenses. Support will be available for those who attend a public or private school or who are homeschooled.

As part of the Provincewide Shutdown, elementary students will be studying virtually until January 11, 2021. Secondary students in Northern Ontario will be studying virtually until January 11, 2021 and secondary students in Southern Ontario will be studying virtually until January 25, 2021. This additional funding will provide support for families impacted by these recent restrictions. While transmission in schools remains low, these approaches will help further limit community spread of COVID-19.

"While Ontario schools remain safe, we won't take any chances following the holidays — we will pivot to teacher-led online learning to help protect against the spread of COVID-19 in our communities," said Minister Lecce. "We are providing direct financial support to parents of elementary and now high school children to help them get through this pandemic."

Application instructions will be available on the Support for Learners web page starting in January 2021. Secondary school student applications will be open from January 11, 2021 to February 8, 2021. The application deadline for Support for Learners for children or youth aged 0 to 12 and for children or youth aged 0 to 21 with special needs is being extended to February 8, 2021.

This support is part of over $900 million in direct financial support that the Ministry of Education has provided to parents since the start of the pandemic.

To support people as they stay home during the Provincewide Shutdown, the government will hold electricity prices to the off-peak rate of 8.5 centsperkilowatt-hour for all time-of-use and tiered customers on a temporary basis starting January 1, 2021. This low rate will be available 24 hours per day, seven days a week for a 28-day period. The off-peak price will automatically be applied to bills of all residential, small business, and farm customers who pay regulated rates.

"As we enter a Provincewide Shutdown, our government is ensuring that all households have stable and predictable electricity bills when they need it most," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines, Minister of Indigenous Affairs. "Staying home means using more electricity, especially during the day when electricity prices are usually higher. We will continue to support hardworking families and small businesses doing their part by staying home."

The province is also making it easier for families and businesses to get the support they need to help pay their energy bills through the COVID-19 Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Any residential, small business, or registered charity customer with an overdue electricity or natural gas bill will now be eligible to apply. A residential customer can receive up to $750 to help cover their electricity bill and an additional $750 for their natural gas bill. Small businesses can receive up to $1500 for each. Newly eligible customers can apply for these enhanced benefits through their local utility, starting in January 2021.

QUICK FACTS

Ontario’s Action Plan: Protect, Support, Recover provides a total of $13.5 billion in direct support for families, workers and employers, in addition to $11.3 billion in cash flow support.
As part of the commitment to keep students safe, the government made available $1.3 billion to support the safe reopening of schools - the most robust and comprehensive plan in the entire country. This includes an additional $381 million from the federal government’s Safe Return to Class Fund.
To date, the new Support for Learners program has received almost 1.3 million applications and provided more than $175 million in funding to support over 850,000 children and students since November 30, 2020.
According to data reported by school boards as of Friday, December 18: approximately 99.64 per cent of students in Ontario have not reported a case of COVID-19; approximately 92 per cent of schools across the province have had either no cases or one case reported within the last 14 days; and approximately 80 per cent of schools do not have a reported case of COVID-19.
In March, the government suspended time-of-use electricity rates, holding electricity prices to the off-peak rate of 10.1 cents-per-kilowatt-hour 24/7 for time-of-use residential, small business, and farm customers for a period of 45 days.
From June 1, 2020 to October 31, 2020, the government introduced a new fixed COVID-19 Recovery Rate of 12.8 cents per kilowatt hour to provide relief to time-of-use customers.

Donation Appeal for ZSO's Operational Costs

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 17:41:51 GMT

Now more than ever, we’re so grateful to the Zoroastrian community that has funded, volunteered, celebrated, and advocated for the Zoroastrian Society of Ontario (ZSO) throughout the years. At a time today, when everything feels uncertain, we hope you will find comfort and encouragement knowing that you care about your community, your organization, your beliefs, customs and religious practices.

While much of the world has stopped, our mission to serve the Zarthushti community will not be placed on pause. Since the pandemic started, all ZSO volunteers have stepped up to the plate, with online activities from the Seniors to the youth, from the Priests to all.

ZSO has steadfastly followed and complied with the guidelines of the Provincial Government and the Public Health authorities to contain the spread of the Corona-virus pandemic.
The partial and full closure and lockdown at the Mehraban Guiv Darbe Mehr, has had a devastating effect on the financial resources of ZSO. Major income generating events have been affected by the pandemic. The Fasli Muktad, Jamshedi Nowrooz celebrations, Shenshai Muktad, Khordad Saal to name a few which all switched to online streaming. This has had a devastating blow on foot traffic at the Darbe Mehr, donations, collections in the safe etc.

Irrespective of the closure, ZSO has had to maintain and pay for all day to day running expenses, like the Caretaker salary, supplies, heat, hydro, cleaning, taxes, building repair and maintenance, grass cutting and lawn-maintenance, snow removal and salting, removing fallen trees, additional expenses for technology resources to provide live-streaming, online events, etc. This year, as committed, we have also completed the replacement of the aging linoleum flooring in the main hall with the beautiful tiling that is ready for the community to enjoy for many years to come, once we are able to safely re-open our doors. In addition, to meet Public Health requirements, we had to engage outside cleaning personnel to regularly clean and disinfect areas used including washrooms during our reduced operating hours.

That’s why your Board has decided to reach out to our community with this appeal for your financial support at this critical time. As an initial goal, we hope to reach $10,000 by the end of January, 2021. As the safest, simplest, and most effective way to support ZSO, your donation can help us as we adapt to ever-changing circumstances due to COVID-19.

While all of us are facing great challenges at this time, we hope that you can find some peace and comfort knowing that your generosity will be directed to a good cause for your organization. That shining holy place of worship, our Darbe Mehr, will always be there for you and your families.

Donations can be made online at https://www.zso.org/Donate (please select NO to the question "Donation to the FEZANA Professorship at U of T" if your donation is for ZSO’s Operational Cost use) or complete the manual donation form provided on the website or Newsletter, with cheques made payable to the "ZOROASTRIAN SOCIETY OF ONTARIO" and mailed to the MGDM, attention: ZSO Treasurer. All online and cheque donations in excess of $20 will be provided with a tax receipt; online donors will receive the same by email immediately upon completing the donation. No donation is too small and all monies collected will be directed to the upkeep of your Darbe Mehr. You can consider a one-time donation, or monthly payments, if that works best for you.

Your Darbe Mehr has been a shining beacon there for you during happy times and family events like navjotes, weddings, religious celebrations, religious education, Scouts, Seniors events and the like as also for solemn occasions for death and Muktad prayers.

Now the Darbe Mehr and your ZSO is hoping to kindle the fire in you to support your Darbe Mehr and your shining place of worship in this hour of need.

Needless to add, we truly appreciate your support through your ZSO membership. We urge you to renew your membership each year - its simple and quick to do On-line by using your secure login here and encourage your family and friends to join ZSO; now is the time! Please visit:

https://www.zso.org/join-us

We look forward to the community's support to help ZSO through this challenging time and emerge stronger together to carry out our Society's objectives well into the future.

Thank you.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Mashya Amroliwalla
President
Zoroastrian Society of Ontario

COVID-19 UDPATE - MGDM CLOSED

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 17:00:00 GMT

Nov 25, 2020

With the evolving COVID-19 Pandemic and rising cases, the city of Toronto is in a lockdown. Keeping the health and safety of our custodian and members as top priority, as well as following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship and the specific conditions which include limiting capacity and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting, the ZSO Board of Directors has decided to CLOSE the Mehraban Guiv Darb e Meher (MGDM) until further notice.

MGDM is CLOSED effective immediately.

All upcoming visits to MGDM are cancelled with the exception of any death prayers with a limited capacity of 10 people including the priest and custodian. These bookings MUST be booked by contacting Hoofrish Patel (evp@zso.org).

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation.

When visiting the MGDM please be reminded of the following mandatory requirements and guidelines:

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM
Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory
Bring your own prayer book and head covering
Refrain from bringing Sukhar, loban or other prayer related items from home
Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet
Follow entry and exit signs
Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Suspended Services

Drop in visits
Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
Navjote, weddings and other close contact activities
Consumption of food and drink remains suspended
Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service
Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

COVID-19 Revised MGDM Hours

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 03:08:40 GMT

Nov 18, 2020

With the evolving COVID-19 Pandemic and rising cases, the city of Toronto is listed in the Red Zone. Keeping the health and safety of our custodian and members as top priority, as well as following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship and the specific conditions which include limiting capacity and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting, the ZSO Board of Directors has decided to revise the MGDM visiting hours.

MGDM revised hours of operations effective immediately are:

Saturday 9am - 12pm

All visits to MGDM remain by appointment only and MUST be booked at least 24 hours in advance, by contacting Hoofrish Patel (evp@zso.org) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation.

When planning a visit to the MGDM please be reminded of the following mandatory requirements and guidelines:

Use the online self-assessment tool before every visit to the MGDM
Wearing a non-medical mask/face covering is mandatory
Bring your own prayer book and head covering
Refrain from bringing Sukhar, loban or other prayer related items from home
Maintain a social distance of two meters/six feet
Follow entry and exit signs
Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
Avoid opportunities for the virus to spread through touch, either directly or indirectly through surfaces and objects, including objects that may be used in rituals or ceremonies

Suspended Services

Social gatherings, including those that occur before or after a prayer service remains suspended
Navjote and other close contact activities
Consumption of food and drink remains suspended
Indoor singing, use of instruments and choir service
Sharing and distribution of materials and objects such as books, scarves, caps, water, etc.

Disclaimers and resources:

“All visits to the MGDM are voluntary and at the visitor’s own discretion. Visitors must comply with applicable guidelines including limits on numbers, wearing of masks and physical distancing. All visitors are responsible for their own health & safety as well as respecting the health & safety of those around them.”
"Visitors must self-screen with the ZSO volunteer present when entering the MGDM at each visit. The volunteer will record the date, their name and contact information (phone and/or email) and that will only be used for contact tracing for COVID-19 purposes and will only be kept on file for 30 days.”

ZSO Gourmet Food Fair - Pre-Order Only (Virtual)

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 04:04:54 GMT

Click on the image to see the menu and order form.

Farvardegan Days and MGDM Stage 3

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 19:05:01 GMT

The city of Toronto has entered stage 3 of the provincial reopening on Friday July 31^st. As a result of this announcement, we are in Stage 3 of reopening by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship with some specific conditions. These conditions include limiting capacity and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.

Click here or visit the COVID-19 Updates section for more details regarding the upcoming Shahenshahi Farvardegan days (Agu 11th - 15th).

MGDM Stage 3 Re-opening

Sat, 01 Aug 2020 20:21:35 GMT

The city of Toronto is preparing to oversee the safe restart of more businesses and services following the Province of Ontario’s announcement as it entered stage 3 of the provincial reopening on Friday July 31^st. As a result of this announcement, we are in Stage 3 of reopening by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship with some specific conditions. Click here or visit the COVID-19 Updates section for more details.

Farvardegan Prayers Schedule (August 11th – 16th, 2020 )

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 03:41:16 GMT

Farvardegan Prayers Schedule

August 11^th – 16^th, 2020

Live Streamed via ZSO YouTube Channel

August 11, 2020:

7:00 AM - Morning Satum (Click here)

7:30 AM - Afringan and Farokshi (Click here)

11:30 AM - Afternoon Satum (Click here)

7:00 PM - Evening Satum (Click here)

August 12, 2020:

7:00 AM - Morning Satum (Click here)

7:30 AM - Afringan and Farokshi (Click here)

11:30 AM - Afternoon Satum (Click here)

7:00 PM - Evening Satum (Click here)

August 13, 2020:

7:00 AM - Morning Satum (Click here)

7:30 AM - Afringan and Farokshi (Click here)

11:30 AM - Afternoon Satum (Click here)

7:00 PM - Evening Satum (Click here)

August 14, 2020:

7:00 AM - Morning Satum (Click here)

7:30 AM - Afringan and Farokshi (Click here)

11:30 AM - Afternoon Satum (Click here)

7:00 PM - Evening Satum (Click here)

August 15, 2020:

8:00 AM - Morning Satum (Click here)

8:30 AM - Afringan and Farokshi (Click here)

11:30 AM - Afternoon Satum (Click here)

7:00 PM - Evening Satum (Click here)

August 16, 2020:

4:15 AM - Night Afringan and Satum (Click here) - This prayer is a live stream ONLY

All visits to the MGDM will be by appointment only and MUST be booked in advance, a minimum 24 hours prior to the day of the visit, by contacting Afreed Mistry (EVP@zso.org) and receiving her confirmation.

Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied.

Revised Hours for MGDM Stage 2 Opening.

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 15:45:18 GMT

The provincial Government has established guidelines to gradually reopen the province and ease restrictions in communities where it is safe to do so. We have entered Stage 2 of reopening by following the changes under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA) for places of worship with some specific conditions. These conditions include limiting capacity and ensuring that public health measures are followed such as face coverings, physical distancing and environmental cleaning and disinfecting.

As we cautiously and gradually plan the reopening, participation in religious services is increased from 10 to 15 people including the priest, additionally now the MGDM will be open for drop in visits with revised hours of operation and protocols to follow.

The MGDM revised hours of operations starting, July 21, 2020 are;

Tuesday 4pm - 8pm
Saturday 9am - 12pm

All visits to the MGDM will be by appointment only and MUST be booked 24 hours in advance, prior to the day of the visit by contacting Afreed Mistry (evp@ZSO.org) and receiving her confirmation. Please note if you do not have an appointment/confirmation your entry will be denied.

We thank you for your patience and appreciate your cooperation as we gradually and safely reopen, keeping the safety of our custodian and the community at large as the top priority.

Click here for more details on reopening of Faith Based Organizations in the City of Toronto

No Gatherings allowed at Darbe-Mehr

(Past member) — Sat, 27 Jun 2020 16:00:00 GMT

There will continue to be NO gatherings allowed at the MGDM in keeping with the Government of Ontario’s orders. The in-person attendance for prayers at the MGDM is now increased to 10 people ONLY including the priest(s) and must be arranged in advance by contacting Afreed Mistry (evp@zso.org).

Any additional people will NOT be allowed to enter the premises.

For more information on Ontario prohibiting gatherings for more than five people with strict exceptions and further updates visit the site here.

Stay Home, Be Safe and Save Lives.

Please stay tuned, as we’re working diligently for the next steps of reopening including drop in visits to the Darb-e-Mehr.

Landscaping Initiative 2020 - Request for Quotes Now Open

Fri, 01 May 2020 22:48:58 GMT

Darbe Mehr Major Initiatives – Landscaping

The Board in conjunction with the ZSO House & Garden committee are moving forward with the next major initiative to update the Darbe Mehr. The Landscaping project is now in the Request For Quote stage.

Details of the RFQ including the scope of the project are in the attached spreadsheet.

The deadline for submission of all quotes is May 31^st, 2020.

The RFQ will also be sent via email to the community and we welcome any and all referrals for this work. Please direct any questions or comments to secretary@zso.org.

ZSO Board of Directors and H&G Committee

ZSO_DM_Landscaping_RFQ.xlsx

ZSO Scholarship 2019-2020

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 20:43:38 GMT

Attention high school graduates, the application process for the Annual ZSO Academic and Community Service Award is now open.

The deadline for receiving completed applications this year is 20th July 2020. All pertinent details are in the application form which can be found here.

Good luck to all the applicants.

FEZANA Professorship of Zoroastrian Languages & Literature at the University of Toronto

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 03:24:42 GMT

Please see the link to the brochure in the News section

FEZANA Professorship of Zoroastrian Languages & Literature at the UofT

To Donate online, please click on "Donate"

To Donate by cheque, please ONLY use the special form provided below and in the "News" section and NOT the one in the FEZANA Brochure

FEZANA Professorship of Zoroastrian Languages & Literature at the UofT ZSO Donation Form

Essay Contest for Ages 13-18

(Past member) — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 00:30:05 GMT

Essay Contest for Ages 11-14

(Past member) — Thu, 12 Dec 2019 00:25:57 GMT

New Year's 2020 - Celebrate with ZSO and Kanoun

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 14:27:28 GMT

Come join us at the Darbe Mehr on December 31st to ring in the New Year with dinner and dancing. Please see attached flyer for more details.

ZSO_NYE_POSTER_FINAL.pdf

Appeal in Memory of Mayyar Noushi - FEZANA

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 02:03:05 GMT

Our ZAGNY community is deeply saddened by the untimely passing away of our dear friend and fellow board member Mayyar Noushi, just 51 years old, in a motorcycle accident on the morning of October 10, 2019.

Mayyar lived his life serving the community and now it is our turn to rally around the family. Many members have already contacted us and asked how they can help. ZAGNY has now initiated a collection for Mayyar so that we can in some small way help and support them at this difficult time. We hope that our community steps up and contributes generously.

Please mail to:

Cyrus Pavri

ZAGNY Treasurer

961 Franklin Turnpike

Allendale, NJ 07401-1315

Please visit the link below for more details and to donate online.

Donate Online

Bapsy Irani Culinary and Fine Arts Scholarship

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 02:00:07 GMT

FEZANA is happy to announce the setting up of the Bapsy Irani Scholarship for the Culinary & Fine Arts. This scholarship is set up with contribution from the family of Bapsy Irani.

Applications are invited for this scholarship. Details below.

Objectives

The Bapsy Irani Scholarship for the Culinary & Fine Arts (C&FA Scholarship) provides financial support to Zarathushtis who wish to study the Culinary Arts or Fine Arts, comprising of drawing, painiting, sculpture or the graphic arts.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must profess and practice the Zarathushti faith, be high school graduates, be citizens of USA & Canada or legal residents . Foreign students holding legal status may also apply provided they have been in North America for atleast one year.

For further details and to download the application form visit the FEZANA website.

Apply Now

Prayers for Mehraban Guiv on October 7th - CANCELLED

Sat, 05 Oct 2019 16:17:06 GMT

Please note that the Meherban Guiv prayers scheduled for Monday, October 7th at Darbe Mehr are CANCELLED.

Annual prayers will continue to be held on June 16th to honour Arbab Rustom Guiv, Keikhosrow Guiv and Mehraban Guiv together.

We apologise for any inconvenience this has caused.

ZSO Board of Directors

Muktad Report 2019

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 23:39:30 GMT

2019 marked the 37th consecutive Muktad observances at our Darbe Mehr. Please read the attached Muktad report and volunteer names as submitted by our dear Putli Mirza.

Muktad Report

DM Clean Up Volunteers

Seniors Food Fair

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 01:10:10 GMT

The ZSO Annual Seniors Food Fair takes place on Saturday, October 12th between 1 pm and 3 pm at Darbe Meher. List of vendors and menu items is available for download here.

BINGO Night 2019

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 21:08:24 GMT

Don't miss this annual event organised by the Entertainment Committee! This year's event takes place on Saturday, October 19th at 6 pm at the DM. See attached flyer for more details!

BINGO Night Info

FEZANA Logo Competition

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 00:21:30 GMT

The 12^th World Zoroastrian Congress will be held in New York, USA during the summer of 2022.

Zoroastrian Association of Greater New York (ZAGNY) a member association of Federation of Zoroastrian Associations of North America (FEZANA) will host this event as it returns to North America after 22 years.

The organizing team of the WZC2022 would like to announce a competition to design a logo for the Congress.

The new logo will become the official logo of WZC2022 and will be used on the Congress website, social media sites, business cards, letterhead, posters, souvenir trinkets and gifts, or anywhere else WZC2022 chooses.

We invite entries from all over the world for this logo competition.

To find out more above prize money, eligibility and learn about our jury members, head to:12 WZC LOGO COMPETITION

12 WZC Logo Competition

Website update

(Past member) — Sat, 01 Jun 2019 05:30:00 GMT

We have updated our website to serve the community better.

You can use execofficer1@zso.org for any questions or concerns.

Thank you

Zoroastrian Society of Ontario News

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World Zoroastrian Congress Singapore 2026

Celebration of Life - Gool Bharda

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Support Farhang Pedram’s Recovery Today

FEZANA & Turkish Airlines

Celebration of Life - Dr. Katy Driver

2025 ZSO Scholarship for Graduated High School Students

2025 FEZANA Scholarships Applications Open

ZEDF Scholarship

for Studies with a major or focus in Entrepreneurship

OZCF - 17th Annual Cricket Dhansak - July 13

Join the Ontario Zoroastrian Resource Guide – Deadline July 10th

ZSA - 32nd Maanthra Avesta Recitation and Gatha Studies Gathering

WZCC & FEZANA Gala Night with WZCC AWARDS

WZCC - Zoroastrian Networking Mixer In Toronto - You're Invited!

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 Updates

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 - Speakers Gracing The Stage

The WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 - Limited Time Offer

WZCC Conclave 2025: Speaker's Line-up Update

WZCC Conclave 2025: Speaker's Line-up

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025: Registration Now Open!

WZCC Conclave Toronto Conclave 2025 Registrations Now Open

What to expect at this Conclave?

WZCC Toronto Conclave 2025 - Sponsorship

NAMC - Join us for Humbandagi Prayers for Ervad. Jal Panthaky

American Zoroastrian Society Logo Design Contest

OZCF - Exciting News: A Heartfelt Donation for the Atashkadeh Project!

OZCF - Ash Collection

American Zoroastrian Society - Zoroastrian Diversity and a Culture of Resilience and Creativity In Modern America

You're Invited! Join ZOROBIZ CONNECT's First-Ever Networking Mixer

OZCF - Curbside Meal Pickup - March 2, 2025

NAMC - Online Lecture: Zarthosti Response to Health and Other Challenges of Life

WZCC-WE: Webinar - Empowering Yourself at the Workplace

University of Toronto - The Ruttonjee Family of Hong Kong Seminar

FEZANA Religion Education Committee Presents: "Courts and Estates of Achaemenid Royal Women"

Zoom Meeting Details

Zoroastrian Matching Retreat

Ontario Zoroastrian Resource Guide Now Available to All ZSO Members!

ZSO Resource Guide: Final Call for Submissions

Applications Open for FEZANA Scholarships 2024 - 2025

FEZANA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

2024 ZSO Scholarship for Graduated High School Students

Creating a Resource Guide of Zoroastrian Businesses and Accommodations in Ontario

FIRES - 2nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize: Applications Invited

2nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize

Applications Invited

Announcement: 2nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize.

Eligibility:

Submission Period:

Submission Process:

Prize:

Selection and Adjudication:

Background and history:

Mosaic Interfaith - "Strength & Resilience"

SOAS - Shapoorji Pallonji Institute Scholarships 2024

NAMC - Atash nu Parab Celebration via YouTube

FEZANA - Urgent Medical Appeal for A Kidney Donor=

FEZANA - Teen Dating Violence

CZC - Introduction to the Main Concepts in the Gathas

OZCF - "FUNDS FOR FAITH" The $1 Million Challenge

The Impact of Charitable Gaming

FEZANA - Sadeh/Sada Celebration 2024

FEZANA - 2nd World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum Accepting Applications

FEZANA - Iranshah: A Legacy Restored Available for Sale

Iranshah: A Legacy Restored

ZYNA - 2024 ZYNA Leadership Retreat in Vancouver

FEZANA - Dr. Mariano Errichiello with Prof. Yuhan Vevaina: Zoroastrian Conversations

Recordings of past Conversations are available here: https://fezana.org/conversations/

OZCF - Atashkadeh Fundraiser Gala Success

WZCC Toronto Chapter - Meeting at the OZCF

OZCF - Place of Worship Gala

FEZANA - Lived Zoroastrianism: A Conversation With Dr. Paulina Niechciał

FEZANA Religion Education Committee invites you to

Lived Zoroastrianism:How Zoroastrian Women Practice Religion in the American Diaspora

2^nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize

Announcement: 2^nd Bapsi Sidhwa Literary Prize.

Recordings of past Conversations are available here:
https://fezana.org/conversations/

FOR DISPLAY AT THE
2023 PARLIAMENT OF WORLD’S RELIGIONS

Theme
A Call to Conscience: Defending Freedom and Human Rights