There is something incredibly heartwarming and hopeful happening right now in the beautiful English countryside. This week, our global youth movement took a massive leap forward as the 3rd World Zoroastrian Youth Leaders Forum (WZYLF) officially got underway at the scenic ASHA Centre in Gloucestershire.
The forum is, of course, the brainchild of its dedicated founder, Sanaya Master. Following the fantastic success of the inaugural forum back in 2018 and the wonderful second edition in 2024, this third gathering marks an enduring, deeply needed commitment to nurturing the next generation of Zarathushti leaders. Running from May 19 to May 26, 2026, this intensive 8-day immersion has brought together 16 incredibly dynamic young minds representing six different corners of the world: India, Pakistan, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Singapore. Over the course of the week, this bright cohort is living, learning, and working under one roof, brainstorming future initiatives for our global community.
The Magic of the ASHA Centre
Honestly, there is perhaps no better place on earth for our youth to gather than the ASHA Centre. Founded by the legendary inspiring author, human rights campaigner, and our very own community stalwart, Zerbanoo Gifford, ASHA is a stunning Georgian estate and registered charity nestled in the heart of the Forest of Dean. Living up to its beautiful name, the centre acts as a global sanctuary for youth empowerment, sustainable living, and intercultural dialogue. It provides the ultimate safe space for our emerging leaders to connect, reflect, and grow into their roles.
The forum opened on Tuesday evening, May 19, with a beautiful sense of warmth and purpose. Led by Sanaya Master, the participants gathered in an opening circle to introduce themselves, shake off their jet lag, and share their personal intentions for the week ahead. The daily rhythm they’ve stepped into balances hard work with true camaraderie, fueling up with a hearty communal breakfast before diving headfirst into the day’s collaborative projects.
Learning from Our Best and Brightest
What makes this forum so special is the chance for these young adults to engage in deep, personal conversations and interactive workshops alongside an incredible lineup of global Zoroastrian trailblazers, scholars, and elders. The guest speakers are truly pouring their life’s wisdom into the next generation.
Bringing the journey beautifully full circle, Arzan Sam Wadia, Past President of FEZANA and a proud alumnus of the very first WZYLF in 2018, is back to lead vital workshops. Drawing from his extensive experience at the helm of organized community leadership, he is spearheading tracks on “Leadership & Zoroastrian Values” alongside Sanaya, as well as breaking down the tangible opportunities and challenges within global community mobilization.
The participants are also exploring creative communication with acclaimed theater practitioner Yasmin Sidhwa, who has been leading powerful sessions on creative leadership and public engagement, while respected scholar Dr. Arash Zeini has provided fascinating historical insights into the life and profound lessons of Zarthushta. The cohort is also diving into the core of our community values with Shiruy Billimoria, who is presenting a vital session on “The Zoroastrian Ethics of Philanthropy,” exploring how our deeply ingrained culture of giving can be harnessed meaningfully by the next generation. Additionally, the participants are gaining invaluable, raw real-world perspective from our absolute favorite iconic caterer, Tanaz Godiwalla, who is sharing crucial entrepreneurial lessons on business resilience, grit, and preserving our rich heritage.
The experience also goes beautifully beyond the estate walls. The group will be traveling to Oxford for a day to explore the historic university town and connect with Prof. Yuhan Vevaina, as well as spending a lovely afternoon taking in the sights of the nearby historic Gloucester Cathedral. A deeply meaningful spiritual cornerstone of the week will take place on Sunday, May 24, when the cohort participates in a traditional Jashan ceremony. Local Mobeds will be joining the forum, beautifully bridging our ancient spiritual roots with the forward-looking aspirations of these brilliant youth.
Culinary Magic and Cultural Journeys
Of course, no Zarathushti gathering is complete without incredible food, and this forum is no exception! Two phenomenal Parsi chefs, Prochi Gazder and Tahsheen Daruwala all the way from Toronto, are in the kitchen creating absolutely amazing, soul-satisfying meals that keep everyone energized and comforted throughout the intensive forum.
The forum will wrap up on Tuesday evening with a closing ceremony and a final celebratory bonfire night at the ASHA Centre—a perfect way to cement the lifelong, global bonds formed here. Seeing these 16 young Zarathushtis collaborate, laugh, and dream together in the heart of Gloucestershire brings an incredible sense of pride to all of us. The 3rd WZYLF is proving to be a true melting pot of ideas, beautifully bridging our rich traditions with modern leadership to ensure a vibrant, resilient future for us all.
