In our very first issue, we “sat down with” Fasha Mahjoor, CEO of Phenomenex – he had just abseiled down The Shard. More recently, Phenomenex teamed up with The Analytical Scientist to launch the Humanity in Science Award. Fasha was strangely absent from the presentation ceremony in New Orleans – but he had a pretty good excuse...
Why did you miss the Humanity in Science Award event? It was really quite unfortunate – I had been looking forward to meeting the two distinguished winners – however, I had another philanthropic obligation that same day; I needed to attend a board meeting for The Outward Bound Trust (OBT) in the UK – with the chairman, Prince Andrew, Duke of York. The OBT is very near and dear to my heart as it works primarily with disadvantaged young people with low aspirations from inner-city areas, helping them to see the great things they are capable of achieving in their lifetimes. I’ve personally witnessed the great impact of these programs. Your appointment nicely matches your philanthropic views... As a medical doctor, my father spent his entire life providing free and low cost medical care to underprivileged families, so the desire to ‘give back’ has been part of me from a very young age. As I built Phenomenex, I wanted to carry on this tradition by weaving a strong commitment to humanitarian work into our mission and global company culture. I believe it is the responsibility of all businesses to give back whenever and however they can, even in the smallest of ways – after all, every small act adds up to big change.
You shaved your hair recently for charity – what’s next? Actually, I am excited to announce that I’ll be leaping off three skyscrapers in London for the City Three Peaks challenge, raising money for OBT. Though I’m terrified of heights, I couldn’t say no to this crazy fundraising adventure. I just hope I survive in one piece – and if not, thankfully the money needed will have already been raised!
Nomination for the 2016 Humanity in Science Award are now open: www.humanityinscience.com
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