Birthplace: Ottawa
Company: Provides staffing and consulting services to clients in the public and private sectors.
Education: Bachelor of commerce, finance and management information systems, University of Ottawa (2003)
OBJ360 (Sponsored)
The value of an Algonquin College degree: Experiential learning, taught by industry experts
Zaahra Mehsen was three years into a biology degree at a local university when she realized she wanted to take a different path. “I realized that it’s not my thing,”
Women UNlimited creates collective action and collective impact
I never thought in my lifetime that I would witness something so powerful, heartwarming and inspiring. It’s called Women UNlimited – UNICEF Canada’s women-circled giving collective. The model is simple
Charitable involvement: Ottawa Chamber of Commerce and Women’s Business Network
Biggest biz achievement: Working in a successful family-run business without the “family-run” mentality and becoming an industry leader. Along with this, building a team and company that breeds success and encourages staff at all levels to grow and develop within the company.
Biggest biz obstacle: Being able to stay on course and navigate all the changes that have been imposed by the market conditions and various levels of government in the past 10 years. Many of our competitors closed up shop or changed their business focus; we, however, stayed the course and have come out of this transitional time stronger than ever. We actually welcome and seek out changes now as we know it’s an opportunity to improve.
Biggest influence: My mom: the brightest, most fearless businesswoman I know! She taught us about business ingenuity, fiscal responsibility and how to have fun while doing it. Her most important lesson was “Don’t do it if you don’t love it!”
Biggest lesson learned: It’s all about integrity, relationship building and giving back to your community.
First job: Camp counsellor for children’s computer camp
Advice I’d give the younger me: Happiness comes from within; be grateful for everything; subtle shifts in perception will transform your entire life.
What’s left to do: The world! Tackle global markets for business and travel to many parts of the world with my family.
Favourite pastime: Spending time with my family and friends
I’m currently reading: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
Favourite movie: The Shawshank Redemption
Favourite song: That’s The Way Love Goes by Janet Jackson
Favourite local pro sports team: Ottawa Senators
Favourite local summer event: Canada Day
Preferred social media platforms: Twitter, Linkedin, Pinterest, Instagram
Twitter handle: @justpriyab
