Believe in your dream, even if no one else does. Don’t let anyone tell you it’s too big or you’re too much. Keep trying. Talent, a bit of luck, and relentless perseverance will eventually stack in your favor. Dream big, be bold, and go for it.
BY J.M. LEE
From early on in her career, Zara recognized that as a woman in media, film, and television, she couldn’t wait for opportunities to come her way; thus, she had to create them herself.
“In my 20s, I assembled a team, a camera operator, a stylist, and produced a show that didn’t go anywhere,” Zara recalls. That didn’t deter her. She believed in her vision of eventually airing on network television, and she stayed committed to that dream.
Years later, she has worked on TV shows in Vancouver, Paris, New York, and at the UN Climate Action Summit, as well as the Cannes Film Festival, and in Uzbekistan for the World Influencers Congress, among other projects.
Leadership has been both an instinct and a necessity.
“I’ve had to carve out my path, building my table rather than waiting for a seat at someone else’s. That journey has been enriching, allowing me to mentor others. I’ve helped aspiring creators and built a career that spans multiple countries and television projects worldwide. I learned that leadership entails problem-solving, adaptability, and, as Drishti Magazine would say, connecting the dots—turning ideas into reality and bringing stories to life.”
Her biggest inspirations have been her mom and her grandmother. “They instilled in me values of resilience, tenacity, and the importance of community. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned as a woman in leadership is that you can’t do everything alone. A strong, reliable network and a trustworthy team are essential.”
If I hadn’t stepped out of my comfort zone, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
Zara has worked and lived in Vancouver, Paris, and Los Angeles. On assignment at the UN Climate Action Summit, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Lebanon, Cambodia, and beyond.
Currently, she hosts and produces On Location Vancouver with the support of TELUS STORYHIVE, as well as City Lights on Novus TV. She’s also developing a show in France and preparing to attend the Cannes Film Festival to conduct interviews with celebrities. These experiences have reinforced the importance of dreaming big and staying committed to one’s goals. As a female leader, she understands that not everyone supports her vision, and that’s fine with her.
This year, her journey of perseverance and purpose was recognized with a Leo Award nomination for Best Host in an Information/LifeStyle series for On Location Vancouver, produced with the support of TELUS Storyhive; a nod to her work and her ability to bring stories to life with passion and authenticity.
“You need to be intentional about who you share your dreams with and those who genuinely believe in you. I write down my dreams and goals because there’s power in putting them into words. The path isn’t always easy, but when you stay committed to your vision, incredible opportunities unfold.”
One of the most vulnerable moments in her life was caring for her mom during her battle with cancer. After she passed, she moved to Paris. “I didn’t speak much French, knew no one, and had no safety net. But that experience taught me resilience and opened doors to international media opportunities.”
Confidence involves taking calculated risks, dealing with uncertainty, and navigating any challenge. “If I hadn’t stepped out of my comfort zone, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
She is the producer of two shows, one of which was national—Life and Style with Zara.
Leading a crew of over twenty people taught her the importance of her team. Authentic leadership is about empowering others, being kind, taking risks, and staying true to oneself.
“It’s about doing things that haven’t been done before,” she says, “and stepping into spaces where others haven’t paved the way. I didn’t have a clear roadmap to follow. I had to trust my instincts and let my heart lead the way. I learned to become my own North Star and embrace the unknown with resilience.”
She has been surrounded by a circle of strong, entrepreneurial women who have been pillars of support. “We lift each other, celebrate wins, and share challenges—where women can thrive and learn from each other’s experiences to navigate ambiguity. Women often rise to the top because they’re willing to create new opportunities where none existed before.”
Facing constant deadlines and time zone differences, her passion for work keeps her focused. “I’m fortunate to have a social circle of creative entrepreneurs who offer support. I also prioritize staying connected with friends and ensuring my pets, who help me stay grounded, are well cared for.”
Her advice to the next generation of women: “Believe in your dream, even if no one else does. Don’t let anyone tell you it’s too big or you’re too much. Keep trying. Talent, a bit of luck, and relentless perseverance will eventually stack in your favor. Dream big, be bold, and go for it. Ignore the naysayers, but don’t share your dreams with everyone; keep your vision close to you.”
Zara continues to reflect on her mom’s incredible strength, resilience, and infectious energy. “Though she passed almost eight years ago, I carry her spirit with me every day. I miss her deeply. I am forever grateful to her for teaching me strength, showing me the meaning of unconditional love, and inspiring me always to be unapologetically myself.”
