The Lebanese Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual Cedar & Maple Gala at the Cunard Centre in downtown Halifax. This marks the 12th year for this event, which honors the accomplishments of those in the Lebanese community, and the community at large, across Nova Scotia.
The event began with a reception, which included Lebanese music and local dancers, who ushered the over 800 guests into the dinner and awards ceremony. Attendees included representatives from government, business, and the community from across Nova Scotia, who were treated to a fusion of Western and Middle Eastern foods, such as kibbeh stuffed chicken, and grilled zaatar flatbread with halloumi and vegetables.
This year’s award winners, announced at the event, were recognized for their success and accomplishments in business and in the community. This year’s winners include:
Canadian Business of the Year – The Bertossi Restaurant Group, owners of four Italian-inspired restaurants in Halifax, including The Bicycle Thief and Il Mercato Trattoria. Company owner, Hakan Uluer accepted the award.
Lebanese Professional of the Year – Elias Metlej, a partner at the law firm McInnes Cooper, who practices law in corporate finance and commercial real estate.
Lebanese Business of the Year – Mansour’s Menswear, a men’s clothing store founded in 1924, that is still operated by the Mansour family in Amherst.
Lebanese Person of the Year – Robert Zed, an entrepreneur and community leader who is well-known for his leadership and commitment to the community.
Upon receiving their awards, the winners each spoke from the heart about their road to success, their challenges, inspiration, appreciation, and connection to the community.
In addition to hearing from the award winners, the event featured a keynote speech from Renzo Gracie, a Brazilian jiu jitsu champion, coach, entrepreneur and community leader. Originally from Brazil, and now living in New Jersey, Gracie’s mother is of Lebanese origin.
Also at the event were the 2018 recipients of the Lebanese Chamber of Commerce scholarships. Each year, the Chamber awards $2500 scholarships to students of Lebanese descent who attend a university or college in Nova Scotia. The 2018 scholarship recipients are currently studying at Dalhousie University and Saint Mary’s University, in the fields of Medical Sciences, Arts and Social Sciences, and Commerce.
Throughout the year, under the leadership of the President, Norman Nahas, and the Board of Directors, the Lebanese Chamber of Commerce offers a number of programs and support to the business community, individuals, and students through their scholarships, Connector and mentorship programs, business directory, and workshops.
Congratulations and continued success to the 2019 award winners, scholarship recipients, and the Lebanese Chamber of Commerce.
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