Sign In

Pervez Nasim

Chairman, Ansar Financial Group

Professional Background

Pervez Nasim is a distinguished figure in the field of Islamic finance and housing development, recognized for his pivotal role in promoting interest-free financial solutions in North America. A graduate from the prestigious University of Toronto, where he received a Bachelor of Commerce and became a Certified Management Accountant, he has leveraged his education to establish a remarkable career that blends financial expertise with a dedication to community service.

As a founding member and Chair of the Board of the Islamic Co-operative Housing Corporation Ltd., Pervez has dedicated over four decades to pioneering Interest-Free Home Ownership and Investment projects in Canada, fostering home ownership without the burden of interest. This initiative, which he has championed since its inception back in 1980 in Toronto, stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to community welfare and economic justice.

In addition to his leadership at the Islamic Co-operative Housing Corporation, he serves as the Chairman & CEO of Ansar Co-operative Housing Corporation and the Ansar Financial Group of Companies. Under his guidance, the organization successfully organized the 3rd International Islamic Banking, Finance & Insurance (Takaful) Conference in Ottawa, Canada in May 2007. This event served as a platform for global discussions on Islamic finance and marked a significant stride towards the acknowledgment and adoption of Sharia-compliant financial practices in North America.

The Ansar Financial Group manages investments exceeding $85 million, focusing on various projects and joint ventures structured on an interest-free basis, a concept that aligns with Islamic principles and ethical business practices. His efforts in shaping a robust financial group are indicative of his foresight and ability to anticipate the growing demand for interest-free financing solutions in a diverse and multicultural society.

Pervez Nasim takes pride in being at the forefront of the Islamic financial movement in Canada, leading as the Chairman & CEO of the first Interest-Free Public Company in North America, Ansar Financial and Development Corporation. The company is notably listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange (CSE) under the trade symbol AFD, providing a unique opportunity for investors seeking ethical investment options conducive to Islamic principles.

His commitment to professional growth and community service is further highlighted by his tenure at the Ministry of Finance in Canada, from which he took early retirement in 2004 after twenty-seven years of dedicated service, to fully immerse himself in Islamic financing and investment projects. This transition underscores his priorities and determination in fostering a meaningful impact in the realms of finance and housing.

Education and Achievements

Pervez Nasim’s academic background laid the foundation for his successful career as a management accountant. By graduating with a B.Com. from the University of Toronto, he developed a robust understanding of management principles, financial strategies, and business operations. His achievement as a Certified Management Accountant solidified his expertise in financial management and operational efficiency.

His presentations and discussions on Islamic finance and insurance (Takaful) have taken him around the globe, as he has been invited to participate in various international conferences held in prominent cities like Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Toronto, and even internationally in places such as Khartoum, Kuala Lumpur, Brunei Darussalam, and Geneva. Notable speaking engagements include presentations at Harvard University and the London School of Economics, where he has shared his insights on the principles and practices of Islamic finance, thus contributing to the academic and professional dialogue surrounding this crucial topic.

Throughout his career, Pervez has taken pride in educating and informing professionals and enthusiasts about the potential and importance of integrating Islamic finance into modern banking. His proactive approach in raising awareness has not only been beneficial for industry peers but has also paved the way for improved understanding and adoption of these principles across diverse communities.

Achievements

  • Founding member and Chair of the Board of the Islamic Co-operative Housing Corporation Ltd., promoting interest-free homeownership since 1980.
  • Chairman & CEO of Ansar Financial Group, leading significant initiatives in Islamic finance.
  • Organizer of the 3rd International Islamic Banking, Finance & Insurance (Takaful) Conference in Ottawa in 2007.
  • Leader of the first Interest-Free Public Company in North America, Ansar Financial and Development Corporation, listed on the CSE.
  • Former employee of the Ministry of Finance in Canada, retiring after 27 years of service to focus on Islamic financial projects.
  • International speaker on Islamic finance and insurance topics at various esteemed conferences worldwide.

Related Questions

How did Pervez Nasim develop his expertise in Islamic finance and community development?
What motivated Pervez Nasim to pursue a career in interest-free financial services?
In what ways has Pervez Nasim's leadership at Ansar Financial Group shaped the landscape of Islamic finance in North America?
What are the key challenges that Pervez Nasim has faced while advocating for interest-free home ownership?
How has Pervez Nasim's background in commerce and management accounting influenced his approach to Islamic finance?
Pervez Nasim
Add to my network

Location

Toronto, Ontario, Canada