Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz: A Cross-Border Visionary

When many hesitate in the face of change, some see it as a rare opportunity for transformation. Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz, born on February 23, 1990, in the vibrant city of Isfahan, Iran, has always been among the latter. From a young age, she showed an eagerness to learn, lead, and challenge the status quo. With a keen sense of purpose and a commitment to innovation, she carved out her own distinct path in both education and entrepreneurship. Her journey began in Iran, where she co-founded Pars Pendar Nahad International Group with her brother—a company focused on international services and training programs. In a short time, it grew into a respected brand with a reputation for integrity and forward-thinking solutions. This experience laid the foundation for Dr. Shekarisaz's leadership philosophy: excellence through purpose, adaptability, and community building.

But while many would have been content with such success, Dr. Shekarisaz had a broader vision. She believed in challenging limits, including geographic ones. With courage and clarity, she chose to emigrate to Canada—not to start over, but to expand her reach. For her, immigration wasn’t an escape from her roots; it was a strategic decision to explore how far her skills and vision could go. This bold step was powered by her deep belief that people, especially women, thrive when placed in environments that allow them to grow without constraint. That mindset became the seed of a new chapter, rooted in her Iranian values and blooming across Canadian soil.

Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz: Rising in Vancouver’s Scene

In Canada, Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz continued to prove that leadership transcends borders. Alongside her husband, she took on the challenge of managing one of Vancouver’s most iconic restaurants: Lombardo’s, a local favorite known for its homemade Italian recipes and warm, authentic ambiance. With her strong background in business management and community development, she helped transform the restaurant from a well-loved spot into a cultural landmark.Her efforts did not go unnoticed. At Vancouver’s 18th Annual Restaurant Awards, Lombardo’s received an Honorary Mention for Best Casual Italian Cuisine—a proud moment that recognized not only the restaurant's flavor and service, but also the care and strategy behind its growth.

What sets Dr. Shekarisaz apart is her philosophy of leadership. She believes a business is not just about what you offer, but how you make people feel. Under her direction, the restaurant became more than a place to eat—it became a space of belonging. Her staff reflects Vancouver’s multicultural makeup, and she has worked hard to ensure everyone on her team feels valued, heard, and respected. Her inclusive style has led to high employee retention and strong customer loyalty—two rare but valuable traits in the hospitality industry.

She often says that food is a universal language, and through it, people can connect, heal, and understand each other. This belief shapes everything from menu planning to guest experiences at Lombardo’s. It’s no wonder the restaurant has become a destination for locals and tourists alike, seeking not just a meal but a meaningful experience.

An Immigrant Woman’s Story of Global Impact

Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz’s story offers something powerful: proof that dreams can travel across borders. Her success challenges stereotypes and expands the narrative around what immigrant women can accomplish. She is not just a manager, or even a visionary—she is a cultural bridge builder.

Having navigated the hurdles of immigration, language adaptation, and professional reinvention, Dr. Shekarisaz has emerged stronger, wiser, and more influential than ever. Her quote, “Geography is no barrier to brilliance if you believe in yourself,” has become a quiet mantra for many newcomers carving their own path.

Beyond her achievements in the food industry, she is now being sought after as a mentor, speaker, and advocate for immigrant entrepreneurship. Through local community panels, mentorship programs, and cross-cultural initiatives, she shares her knowledge and experiences with others—especially women who are at the beginning of their journeys.Lombardo’s, today, reflects her identity: elegant yet grounded, ambitious yet welcoming. Guests are drawn to the atmosphere she has created—one that blends culinary excellence with emotional warmth. In a world increasingly divided, her restaurant is a reminder that unity can be cooked up in a kitchen and served with a smile.

Dr. Mozhdeh Shekarisaz stands as a proud representative of what Iranian women can achieve when given space, support, and opportunity. She doesn’t just inspire—she leads by example, showing that vision, resilience, and heart can reshape any landscape, no matter how foreign. Her legacy is still unfolding, but its foundation is strong: built on trust, fueled by passion, and destined to uplift others for years to come.