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Zahra Al-Harazi’s life has never been defined by comfort—it has been defined by resilience. Born in Uganda and raised in Yemen, she grew up amid political turmoil and social constraints that shaped her strength. As a young woman, her world was marked by uncertainty. But in those struggles, she discovered the determination that would carry her across continents.
🍁 Finding Home in Canada
In the late 1990s, Zahra arrived in Canada with her husband and children, searching for safety and opportunity. Life wasn’t easy. She had no Canadian work experience, no higher education, and the heavy responsibility of starting over. Yet, she refused to let her past define her future.
🎨 Building Creativity Into a Career
Determined to carve a path, Zahra enrolled in design studies. What began as a leap of faith turned into her calling. With bold ideas and a natural talent for connecting people, she founded Foundry Communications in 2006. The company quickly became one of Calgary’s most respected marketing and design agencies, celebrated for its innovative campaigns and fearless voice.
🌍 A Voice of Leadership
Zahra’s journey from newcomer to entrepreneur resonated widely. She became a mentor, keynote speaker, and advocate for women, immigrants, and those daring to start over. Her authenticity and strength made her a powerful figure in Canada’s business community.
Her impact was recognized with multiple honors, including:
Named to Chatelaine Magazine’s Top Women Entrepreneurs
Featured in Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40
Ranked among Canada’s Most Powerful Women by WXN
📖 Sharing Her Lessons
Zahra later co-authored What It Takes: To Live and Lead with Purpose, Laughter, and Strength, a book blending her personal story with hard-won lessons on resilience and leadership. Through it, she offered a roadmap to those facing adversity: to embrace courage, purpose, and humor in the face of challenge.
💡 Why Zahra’s Story Inspires
Her journey reminds us that starting from nothing doesn’t mean ending with nothing. It means having the chance to rebuild—stronger, braver, and more purposeful than before.
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