Home: Toronto, ON. Age: 52. Birthplace: Iran. Profession: Real estate development. Organization: Mizrahi Developments. Title: President and founder. Languages spoken: English and Hebrew.
Current project: The One. Recent recognition: Toronto’s 50 Most Influential People. Recent professional development: Founder of financial app Rauva. Latest accomplishment: Nearing completion of The One. Latest contribution to others: United Jewish Appeal. What’s been your big (or biggest leap)? The leap into real estate development.
Personality profile: Visionary, innovative, creative, engaging, bold, dynamic. What one word would your closest friend use to describe you? Energetic. How do you define an ideal business relationship? Trust, competence, transparency. What is your greatest joy? Creating beauty. What is at the top of your bucket list? Adding more architectural beauty to the Toronto skyline. What ingredient is essential to your perfect vacation? Discovery.
What was your first paying job? Unimax, founded at age 16. What is your go-to source of creative inspiration? My talented colleagues who work with me on exciting architectural projects. What world event has had the greatest influence on your life? Iranian revolution of 1979. What personal circumstance has had the greatest influence on your life? Immigrating to Canada as a child.
What is your big idea?
Make Toronto’s skyline magnificent.
What change are you working on to effect in your profession or field? Discovering new opportunities for high-quality, customized projects. What widely held belief do you reject? That the days of unlimited opportunities are over. What advice would you give your younger self? Never let go of hope, never lose confidence.
Personal mission: Creating, envisioning and building.
