Esmail Bharwani receives inaugural Sharon Carry Community Leadership Award.
In 1973, Esmail Bharwani and his family left a life of comfort in Tanzania to escape the threat to peace and security in the country. He, his wife Safana, and their baby daughter arrived in Calgary with two suitcases and $3,000. With only enough money to buy a bed and a cot for their home, they had to sit on the floor to eat for two years. When his brother arrived from England, he slept on the floor for six months.
Since then, Esmail started an accounting practice, taught continuing education courses, wrote regular newspaper columns, and earned four degrees and one professional designation. He also opened a law practice, taught seminars for various organizations, produced television programs, gave radio interviews, and sat on many boards and committees.
Seven years ago, after he happened to meet an associate vice-president at Bow Valley College, he established a family foundation largely from his own funds. He set up an endowment with Bow Valley College, which over time has produced 12 student awards.
“You can change people’s lives by giving them an education,” says Esmail of his commitment to the field, which dates back to teaching in Tanzania in the 60s.
More at the source: Bow Valley College / May 30, 2018
Ismailimail 