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2023 40 Under 40 Winners

 
 

Director, Major Gifts

The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation

Shez's personal mission is to advocate for those that are often left behind, lead with authenticity and curiosity and strive for a better tomorrow.

Throughout her career, Shez has been a strong advocate of building lifelong relationships, delivering exceptional initiatives and programs that address current and future societal needs and leading authentically. Shez believes in investing her time in supporting equity-deserving groups such as children and youth, women, seniors, Black, Indigenous peoples, Muslim, refugees and newcomers, and the 2SLGBTQ+ communities. 

Shez's commitment to philanthropy stems from her childhood in Pakistan where she learned the impact that philanthropy can have. As we know, healthcare research extends well beyond one hospital and research centre's walls as everything we learn can be spread and scaled. Ultimately, that knowledge will reach every part of the world and the impact will be felt far and wide; including those that she spent time with in Pakistan.

Shez has over 10 years of experience in the field of frontline major gift fundraising, managing corporate and community partnerships, sponsorship and cause-related marketing campaigns, relationship building, strategic planning, and team leading. Shez is a creative, tactical, and innovative leader with a proven record of accomplishment. She has demonstrated out-of-the-box thinking by anticipating the future needs for organizations she has worked with. 

Shez's strength as a leader lies in identifying strategic gaps and presenting creative solutions to achieve targets and results through teamwork, innovation, and critical thinking. She is a dedicated mentor to several early career fundraisers and emerging leaders in the sector. Along with that, Shez values her colleagues and has mentors that continue to support her development and cheer her on. In all respects, Shez has demonstrated herself as an effective, thoughtful, and empathic leader and team player who leads with authenticity and curiosity.

A purpose-driven career has always been a priority for me, although I never anticipated finding myself in healthcare philanthropy. During my time at university, I sought a part-time job at the Annual Fund to gain some work experience. Ever since, I am indebted to my extraordinary mentors and family who recognized my potential in fundraising long before I did. They illuminated the path to a fulfilling career in fundraising, a deeply gratifying and meaningful profession, allowing me to play a part in shaping a better and brighter future. My work in healthcare philanthropy fills me with immense gratitude and a profound sense of meaning and fulfillment every single day.

Health is the foundation upon which everything else rests; without it, all else loses its significance. Since childhood, giving back to the community and causes that I deeply care about is a core value instilled in me by my parents. They taught me the power and importance of philanthropy, and I am grateful for the opportunity to embody those principles through my career. Being able to combine my passion for healthcare equity and my desire to make a positive difference in the world makes healthcare philanthropy the perfect career for me. I chose healthcare philanthropy as my career because it reflects my personal values of caring for others, respect and integrity. Each day, I am lucky to have the opportunity to directly address and impact the needs of underserved individuals and communities.

I have been incredibly grateful for a few pivotal moments in my career that have led me to where I am today. One crucial turning point for me was my involvement in a capital campaign with the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University. This experience was unparalleled to any other. I worked behind the scenes on a creative, innovative, big vision for a campaign with the dean of the School of Business, the VP of development, and the manager of development to launch our campaign. Moreover, I had the privilege of engaging our dedicated board of directors and an ad-hoc advisory council, who served as passionate champions for the campaign. Together, we worked hand in hand with key stakeholders to bring this exciting and invigorating campaign to life.

Giving a voice to the underserved and equity-seeking, often excluded from important discussions, is a burning passion of mine. I believe that true progress can only be achieved when everyone's perspectives and experiences are heard and considered. It is an injustice when certain individuals, due to systemic barriers, are denied a seat at the table where decisions are made. I am driven by a deep commitment to advocate for those whose voices have been silenced, to amplify their stories, and to fight for equal representation and inclusion. Empowering the underserved not only addresses inequality but also enriches society by embracing the diversity of thoughts, ideas, and solutions that emerge when everyone has an equal opportunity to be heard.

Make it your mission to leave a positive impact on the world, surpassing the state in which you found it. Always remember that people are drawn to authentic individuals, so embrace your true self. Harness the power of storytelling, for it holds immense influence and impact. Never underestimate the potential of each interaction to inspire others and garner support for your cause. Nurture your curiosity with purpose, seize every opportunity and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges, As Wayne Gretsky said, you miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

Fun Fact

Believe it or not, back when I was just eight years old, I had the incredible opportunity to star in a TV show! Being part of a TV show at such a young age was truly a unique adventure and left me with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. The highlight was someone asking for my autograph at the mall!

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