Reihane Mirjani: Championing Community Service and Environmental Sustainability

Reihane Mirjani has distinguished herself as a recipient of the Medal of Good Citizenship for British Columbia, a prestigious acknowledgment of her outstanding contributions to the community. She is a pioneering founder of Soul Bite Food Inc., a company dedicated to producing vegetarian ready-made meals while championing social responsibility.

Majid Mahichi – Local Journalism Initiative

The company is notable not only for its products but also for its commitment to social change, donating 50% of its profits to charities focused on combating hunger and reducing food waste.

Reihane also serves as the vice president of the Immigrant Link Centre Society (ILCS), where her leadership extends beyond the boardroom into actionable, community-focused initiatives. Through her guidance, the society mobilizes 270 volunteers who actively collect and distribute food that would otherwise go unsold and be wasted at local grocery stores. This proactive network supports 29 food distribution centers, effectively preventing over 1,000,000 kilograms of perishable food valued at more than 7 million dollars from going to waste annually. The environmental impact is equally significant, as this effort helps reduce the carbon footprint by preventing the release of over two million kilograms of carbon dioxide each year.

The impact of Reihane's work is profoundly felt among the most vulnerable. The food collected through these efforts provides essential nutrition to approximately 4,500 members of the community who are most at risk, ensuring they have access to necessary meals. This initiative not only alleviates the immediate physical need for food but also mitigates the psychological stress associated with food insecurity. By enhancing the community's overall sense of security and belonging, Reihane's efforts foster a more cohesive and supportive environment.

Further exploring her journey, Reihane shares insights into her relocation to Vancouver and the collaborative spirit she shares with her husband, Ali, in their volunteer endeavors. Driven by a deep commitment to their cause, Reihane has dedicated her life to service, drawing satisfaction and motivation from the tangible results of their work. Their collaborative efforts have not only achieved significant milestones but also galvanized a growing network of volunteers, amplifying their impact and extending their reach within the community. This narrative underscores not only Reihane's role as a leader but also as a catalyst for widespread community engagement and transformation.