Riyaz Haji - How it all Started

We’ve spent a lot of time talking about our progress over the years, but we don’t think we’ve spent enough time telling you how it all started.

There are a few key players working together to make this magic happen, but perhaps the most important person is Riyaz Haji. Riyaz is one of our founding partners, Kam Haji’s, father. Riyaz lived in Tanzania for 40 years; it’s the place he calls home, and even after moving to Canada with his family, he travels back for a few months every year.

Riyaz is very well versed in Tanzanian business matters; he has run a variety of businesses including a garage, a transportation business, and rice mills. If it weren’t for his help or his local connections, we wouldn’t be able to continue the work we are doing.

So, how did this all come about?

in 2018, Kam and Riyaz were on a flight to Dubai discussing ways they’d like to give back to their community and Riyaz suggested water. From there, the idea took off and turned into our beloved foundation, Ground-Up. While most of us are in Canada full time, Riyaz dedicated his trips to Tanzania to sourcing out contractors, looking for schools to donate to, and maintaining working relationships with the locals.

We’re so grateful for all of the time and effort Riyaz has put into Ground-Up; he’s such an important part of our mission and he’s made all of our progress possible!

Thank you!