About Zari: Zafira’s Journey

Thank you for visiting my site. I’m Zafira Nanji Scott (she/her/hers), the face behind Zari Insights. The name Zari embodies the golden thread that weaves through my life and work, symbolizing the connections, experiences, and transitions in our individual tapestries.

My professional journey began alongside my father, whose wisdom (and business needs) inspired my first steps into the world of Human Resources as a teenager. He instilled in me the values of hard work, empathy and connection, which I carry forward in all my endeavors.

Through my childhood and young adulthood, navigating my mother’s health firmly placed me in the “sandwich generation,” giving me firsthand experience in what I now refer to as Eldercare Navigation and End-of-Life Doula work. This unique perspective has deepened my understanding of the emotional and logistical challenges families face during such transitions. Today, I draw upon their legacies and lived experience to support both organizations and families through their own journeys, recognizing that every transition, whether in the workplace or at home, is an opportunity for growth and clarity. Hence, Zari Insights came to be. 

Although these three services may appear distinct, they are bound by a common thread: guiding people and organizations through pivotal transitions with purpose and clarity. I firmly believe that the skills I’ve cultivated in Leadership & Human Resources within organizations are equally valuable when helping families navigate the complexities of Eldercare Navigation and End-of-Life Doula decisions.

My Heritage and Experiences

My heritage is a rich tapestry of cultures and perspectives, continuously shaping my approach to connection, resilience, and identity through an inclusive, anti-racist approach

  • Culturally Informed: Canadian born, Kenyan, Gujarati, Ismaili Muslim roots
  • Born & Raised: Calgary, Alberta
  • Education: Ottawa, Ontario
  • Work Abroad: Over 2 years in Busan & Seoul, South Korea
  • Home: Port Moody, Greater Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia
  • Family: Married with 1 son (Ultimate Momager), 2 cats, and 1 dog
  • Languages: Fluent in English, French, Gujarati, Kutchi, Hindi, and Urdu
  • Provincially Recognized: Speaker, Moderator & Facilitator
  • Multi-year Nominee:  UnTapped Diversity & Grierson Mentor Awards

These diverse experiences inform my approach, whether I am developing HR initiatives or supporting individuals through life’s profound transitions. I understand how every interaction, relationship, and transition forms part of a larger narrative, and I leverage this understanding to foster supportive environments in both organizational and personal contexts.

Professional Experience

As a Certified Professional in Human Resources (CPHR), I support organizations in developing leaders and building strategies that elevate their talent to meet their mission. My professional journey has encompassed various roles, including career transition coach, recruiter, corporate trainer, HR Generalist, and HR Director. I have balanced roles across private, public, and non-profit sectors, providing me with a well-rounded perspective on the unique challenges and opportunities each presents. I seek to work with like minded, mission driven organizations at every turn.

As an Eldercare Navigator and End-of-Life Doula (Thanadoula), I offer families peace of mind during times of uncertainty. My personal journey has necessitated navigating Eldercare and End-of-Life matters for family members and friends. As an only child, I understand the emotional weight these transitions carry, and I have become a trusted resource for those around me. My holistic approach ensures that families receive the compassionate support they need during these critical moments.

Combined, these experiences, enable me to provide a uniquely integrated approach for those navigating life’s transitions, whether in the workplace or at home. I emphasize collaboration and recognize that each need is unique, often bringing in skilled professionals from my network to provide comprehensive support.

Education

I have a strong educational foundation that supports my professional endeavors:

  • MBA in Human Resources, University of Phoenix
  • Masters of Arts Coursework: Sufi Rituals: The Life & Work of Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī, Trinity University
  • Bachelor’s Degrees in Sociology & Religious Studies,  University of Ottawa (Bilingual)
  • End-of-Life Doula Certificate, Douglas College
  • International Summer Program Fellow: Love, Sufism, and Spirituality at Simon Fraser University
Certifications & Memberships

I am an advocate of constant learning. Some highlights include LEAN Management, Coursework, Kaizen Management Yellow Belt,  TESOL Training Certificate.  For details, please see my LinkedIn. 

Connect With Me

If you’re seeking support in navigating transitions—whether in Human Resources or Eldercare and End-of-Life — I invite you to connect. Together, we can explore how I can help you through tailored solutions that meet your unique needs.

Fun Fact! 

The Dalai Lama once said “The purpose of life is to be happy.”  While I am joyful doing many things, nothing fuels me more than my family, giving back and travel.  My fondest memories are traversing Tanzania and Zanzibar with my dad, and visiting the National Parks of Kenya and Europe with my mom.  I share my love of travel with my son now.  

Community Involvement

For information on Community Involvement, Media and Speaking Engagements, please visit Diversity and Community
Contact Me