Gulam Juma, Senior Executive at the Aga Khan Development Network
Gulam Juma
La Grande Boissière, 1970
Senior Executive at the Aga Khan Development Network
Canada
Learn more about me :
I have had a very fulfilling life and career, having worked as a seasoned executive with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) for the last 26 years. I am passionate about social enterprise activities, particularly those that aim to improve quality of life through community development and foster access to education as a means to alleviate poverty sustainably. I was able to do all of this during my tenure with the AKDN.
On a voluntary basis, I have served on the Board for Crohn's and Colitis Canada, as Chair of Fairtrade International, a member of the Management Operating Committee for FOCUS Tajikistan, and as a mentor for the Futurpreneur Canada Mentor-Ment2B™ programme.
I currently live in Oakville, just west of Toronto in Ontario, Canada with my wife Azizeh. My work has involved a lot of travel to developing countries. For the last 6 years, I have shuttled between East Africa and Canada.
We have two children, Ali and Farah, a daughter-in-law, Karen, a granddaughter, Alexandra, and a son-in-law, Frank.
My favourite memory of Ecolint was having the opportunity to meet with people from different cultures and backgrounds, striking up conversations and getting to learn about them. The campus was an enabling environment. At times, it was challenging to be away from home at age 11. However, as a boarder, I could always lean on Mrs Hearn, the Units, the Anthonys and the Gastangs. Looking back, they laid the foundation of who I have become.
Ecolint played an important role in shaping my life. It helped me define my character and openness to work with everyone without judgement. It also helped me become a very confident person who does not shy away from conversations and is comfortable being a global citizen.
I would not change anything except possibly to take more time to enjoy the present moment and appreciate even more those who are close to me.
My words of wisdom for Ecolint students: appreciate the opportunity of studying in one of the best educational institutions in the world today with a rich history. Ensure strong foundations and create good friends and relationships that will be there for you for many years to come. Above all, follow your passion!