Br. Riyaz immigrated to Vancouver in 1967 and his family was the first Shia
Ithnasheri family to settle in this city. His family played a foundational role in
the establishment of the Shia Muslim Community of BC. Over the course of
more than four decades, Br. Riyaz has taken on various leadership roles within
the community. He was instrumental on the Task Force responsible for the AzZahraa Centre’s construction. Br. Riyaz is one of the founders and operators of
the Az Zahraa Housing Society, dedicated to providing affordable housing for
those in need. In his professional pursuits, he is a successful entrepreneur,
engaging in a diverse range of businesses. He has served on the board of many
different for-profit and not-for-profit organizations. Beyond his professional
and community endeavors, Br. Riyaz is a husband, a father, and a grandfather.
His life reflects a journey of service, leadership, and family devotion