Why We Serve
HISTORY
Djavad Mowafaghian was born in Tehran, Iran in 1927. The infant boy and his two older sisters were raised in a modest household by their mother following the untimely death of their father. He attributes his passion for giving to her.
“To help children through health and education” became the mandate of the charitable foundation he later shaped. This mandate was inspired by his mother’s beneficent teachings and frequent examples of compassion and generosity.
PROFILE
After studying electrical engineering in Tehran, Djavad invested considerable time in a construction company that grew to become Iran’s largest general contractor. He oversaw the construction of major hospitals, factories, housing developments and roads throughout the country. In the late 1970s, however, things shifted dramatically. When the Shah left Iran, all work contracts came to a standstill, causing irreparable damage to his company. Djavad immigrated to Europe after several difficult months.
Following a trip, he was captivated by Vancouver’s natural beauty and cultural diversity and decided to make British Columbia his home. He incorporated V1500 Holdings Inc., a commercial construction firm. In 2003, the Djavad Mowafaghian Foundation was created. Eight years later, following a stroke, he transferred all of his corporate assets to the Foundation.
LEGACY
Djavad believes that the lives of all people everywhere are of equal fundamental worth. The charities supported by his Foundation are making good progress against some of the world’s great challenges. The Board and staff are inspired and invigorated by the people they have worked with over the past thirty-five years. In the true meaning of philanthropy, the important work begun by Djavad Mowafaghian will continue.
Good actions give strength to ourselves and inspire good actions in others ~ Plato
Honours and Distinctions
2014
Humanitarian Award, awarded by the Dalai Lama Center for Peace and Education
(Recognizes a commitment to philanthropy and humanitarian causes worldwide)
(Recognizes a commitment to philanthropy and humanitarian causes worldwide)
2014
Doctor of Laws, honoris causa
University of British Columbia
2013
Member of the Order of Canada
(Recognizes a lifetime of distinguished service in or to a particular community, group or field of activity)
2013
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal
(Recognizes exceptional Canadians for their contributions to their fellow citizens, their communities and country)
(Recognizes exceptional Canadians for their contributions to their fellow citizens, their communities and country)
2012
Order of British Columbia
(Recognizes those who have served with the greatest distinction and excelled in any field benefiting the people of the province or elsewhere)
(Recognizes those who have served with the greatest distinction and excelled in any field benefiting the people of the province or elsewhere)
2011
Giving Hearts Award, Outstanding Philanthropist, awarded by the Association of
Fundraising Professionals
(Recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations who exemplify the true spirit
of philanthropy)
Fundraising Professionals
(Recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations who exemplify the true spirit
of philanthropy)
2009
Doctor of Laws, honoris causa
Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University
2013 Order of Canada Recipients
Recipients of the Order of Canada with His Excellency the Right Honourable Governor General David Johnston. Mr. Mowafaghian is seated third from the left in the first row.