Founder Karim Hakimi honoured for his contributions to Canada
TORONTO, April 6, 2017 /CNW/ - Over 300 guests attended the recent Hakim Optical Gala in Toronto to commemorate the company's Golden Jubilee. The event highlighted the success of the company in Canada, paid tribute to the dedication of all current and past employees and honoured Hakim Optical founder, Karim Hakimi and his passion to his craft.
"I am very proud of my people and those that have stood by me for 30 to 40 years. Today we have 700 trained lensmakers, and have trained over 2,500 people [over the years] -some of them became our competitors while many have stayed with me," Mr. Hakimi said.
Among the dignitaries at the gala included Mr. Hakimi's longtime friend, former Mississauga mayor Hazel McCallion, Ontario Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca, Toronto City Councillor Shelley Carroll, as well as representatives from the Barbados and Hungarian consulates in Toronto.
"Anywhere you go in Canada you can find a Hakim Optical," says McCallion. "Canada has benefitted from [Mr. Hakimi's] immigration to this country and for the structure [he] built, the economic base [he] built, Canada has been enriched [by his] presence," she added.
Mr. Hakimi also received personalized messages and congratulatory letters from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Toronto Mayor John Tory, and Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti all who were unable to attend but wanted to recognize his incredible contribution to Canada. Mr. Hakimi was also given official letters recognizing this milestone from the various government bodies who attended.
The gala started off with a cocktail reception and progressed to a seated dinner affair. The night included several speeches from employees, government officials and family members including Mr. Hakimi's daughter and granddaughter. Guests were treated to a heartfelt video which showcased the company's history, work culture, major achievements, and highlighted Mr. Hakimi's latest venture – a resort in Belize.
As the leading Canadian independent optical retailer, Hakim Optical is a privately held operation run solely by Mr. Hakimi. He has devoted the last 50 years to creating one of Canada's best known corporate brands with a simple goal of improving the vision and the ability of people to see better.
For more information, visit www.hakimoptical.ca
About Hakim Optical
Established in 1967, Hakim Optical is one of Canada's largest independent optical retail with over 600 employees across the country today. 50 years on, Hakim Optical now serves the people of Canada with 161 outlets (including 140 one hour factory outlets) across Ontario, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.
SOURCE Hakim Optical
Media contact: Sarah Zajac, PUNCH Canada, E: [email protected], T: 647-837-1268
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