002 - Global Heroes - September 2020

Letter from the editor

Denise Koprich Shirazi

Living in a connected world has created an ever-changing society, one that, for the most part, is evolving for the better. One way to encourage this progress is through storytelling—stories about different cultures, ethnicities, and families. The powerful age-old craft of storytelling has brought people together, offering a window to peer through, teaching us about a world that might otherwise remain foreign.

Our cover hero, TreadRight’s ‘People’ Ambassador, Sarain Fox, understands the power of storytelling. Sarain uses her platform to speak for those who are unheard, fighting for Indigenous voices while advocating for reconciliation. Until recently, the historical truth about Canada’s Indigenous peoples has been unknown. Sarain is doing her part to educate.

Cover Global Heroes Magazine - September 2020

Cover Photo © Carrie Cai

In this issue, we are exploring culture and kindness while celebrating our Canadian freedom to embrace both. Canada is known globally for being a welcoming and accepting country and has been recognized as one of the world’s most diverse nations. To properly celebrate our rich culture, we must call on all Canadians - Indigenous, non-Indigenous, and newcomers - to reflect upon and learn the history, sacrifices, cultures, contributions, and strength of all those who call this beautiful land home.

Inspirational everyday heroes share their stories of resilience during difficult times, reminding us that we are not alone as we face our own challenges. We explore one mother’s personal struggle after her son was diagnosed with autism and the journey that led her to start her own foundation. We meet Amy Tung, founder of the I AM LOVE Project, who turned her battle with mental health into a social enterprise supporting others. We also acquaint ourselves with Mahmoud Charary, a dad bravely challenging gender roles in his community by sharing childcare and domestic work with his wife, which have traditionally been maternal responsibilities.

We also look toward our future and the much-needed return to travel. As travellers, full of wanderlust and a desire to connect with people and cultures around the world, we must also consider how many lives have been affected by the disruption of the hospitality industry. The return to exploration abroad is needed for many reasons, but must be done safely. Thankfully, companies like The Travel Corporation have implemented stringent hygiene and cleansing measures ahead of the industries’ full return, ensuring the safety of guests and hospitality workers while providing travellers peace of mind.

Our world has fundamentally changed; tomorrow’s normal will be different from today’s, but with a strong effort to work together, we remain rich in possibility.

Stay safe. Stay well.

“May your footsteps leave only friends behind.” —Frederic M. Perrin, Rella Two Trees - The Money Chiefs

PUBLISHER Amir Shirazi

EDITOR IN CHIEF Denise Koprich Shirazi

EDITOR Raye Mocioiu

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sergio D. Spadavecchia

FINANCE DIRECTOR Marie Lavoie

CONTRIBUTORS Darren Jackson, Alex Carter

SALES DIRECTOR Jaqueline Stewart

ADVERTISING Adam West Natasha Fardoust Nazeela Ahmed

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Susan Mestchian

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