Hello and welcome!
I'm Mani Rahnama, a proud embodiment of Iranian tenacity coupled with Canadian innovation. My journey began with an insatiable curiosity about the digital world, which led me deep into the realms of fintech and cybersecurity.
This website is more than just a professional platform. It's a canvas where I paint my thoughts, share insights from fintech to life lessons, and engage with a community eager to learn and grow. Whether you're here for business insights, a dose of inspiration, or simply to know more about the person behind the ventures, I'm delighted to have you.
Thank you for being a part of my digital voyage. Let's navigate, explore, and create a legacy together.
Who I really am
Life, in its essence, is a mosaic of experiences, relationships, and moments of reflection. Beyond the boardrooms, spreadsheets, and strategic blueprints, I am first and foremost a human being, with dreams, aspirations, and a trove of stories to tell. Each country I've visited, every culture I've immersed myself in, and all the people I've met along the way have enriched my perspective and deepened my understanding of the world.
My heart thrums with the rhythm of narratives — both heard and lived. As a storyteller, I find joy in capturing the fleeting moments and transforming them into timeless tales. Currently, I'm weaving the intricate patterns of my journey into a book, aiming to encapsulate the essence of my life's adventures. It's not just a chronicle of milestones but a testament to resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of passion.
Apart from penning down my experiences, I cherish time spent with family, relishing the serendipities of life, and indulging in my hobbies. Music, photography, and travel are the elixirs that keep my spirit alive and vibrant. In every chord, frame, and horizon, I find a piece of myself and a reminder of the world's boundless beauty.
In essence, beyond the professional facade lies a soul that yearns to connect, share, and inspire, ensuring that every chapter I write, both in business and life, resonates with purpose and authenticity.
Diving deep into the intricacies of Information Technology and cybersecurity has been both my academic and professional pursuit. With a foundation strengthened by a Bachelor's in IT, my expertise further broadened over 17 years of dedicated management in cybersecurity.
Microsoft Certifications:
Throughout my educational journey, I've earned a series of notable certifications from Microsoft, including:
- MCS (Microsoft Certified Professional)
- MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate)
- MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert)
- MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professional)
- MCTS (Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: Security)
- MCTS (Database)
- MCTS (Mail and Exchange Services)
Networking & Security Accolades:
In addition to my Microsoft accolades:
- I'm certified in CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate).
- While I possess extensive knowledge of CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional), I haven't pursued its certification.
- I'm certified in CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), CPENT (Certified Penetration Testing Professional), CHFI (Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator), and WAHS (Web Application Hacking Specialist).
- Currently, I'm enriching my expertise by undertaking the EC-Council Certified CISO Training (CCISO).
Beyond the traditional realm of certifications and degrees, my affinity for the digital world has led me to explore and master various programming languages. While I have hands-on knowledge of .NET and PHP, it's Python that truly resonates with me. This versatile language, renowned for its simplicity and power, has become my favoured tool for crafting solutions, automating tasks, and diving deep into the nuances of data analytics.
Real Estate Endeavors:
Diversifying my expertise, I've also secured a real estate license, broadening my horizons and showcasing my versatility across different domains.and Helping me to have a better understanding of the real estate market and investment.
But here's the thing: IT isn't just my profession - it's what fuels my every day! It's the very fire that urges me to rise before dawn, work till the wee hours, and yet remain tirelessly passionate. Every single day, I am driven by a relentless desire to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring I am on top of emerging security topics.
This passion, this fervor, is what defines me. I tirelessly go the extra mile, constantly learning, evolving, and pushing boundaries, ensuring I not only remain updated but also ahead in the dynamic world of IT and cybersecurity.
Entrepreneurship is not just about founding companies; it's about envisioning dreams and bringing them to fruition. Over the years, I've transformed numerous visions into tangible realities, establishing a presence that transcends borders and industries.
I am the proud owner of eight diverse companies, spanning across four different countries. Managing these ventures is no small feat; it requires a harmonious blend of strategic acumen, adaptability, and a deep understanding of various industries' intricacies. Under my leadership, these companies have grown and thrived, collectively employing over 500 dedicated individuals.
From the intricate world of manufacturing, where precision and scalability are paramount, to the fast-paced and ever-evolving domains of fintech and SaaS, my portfolio is a testament to my versatility and commitment. Each company under my wing reflects a different facet of my passion and expertise, proving that with the right vision and drive, one can achieve excellence across diverse sectors.
The challenges that come with such expansive management are manifold - navigating the cultural nuances of different countries, understanding the varying market dynamics, and ensuring that a cohesive and inclusive work culture is maintained across the board. Yet, these challenges have been my greatest teachers, allowing me to refine my leadership style, stay agile, and ensure that each venture not only survives but thrives in its respective domain.
Through determination, relentless pursuit of excellence, and an unwavering belief in my teams, I've managed to carve a niche in each industry I've stepped into, underlining the essence of true entrepreneurial spirit.
PORTFOLIO
When most people hear the term 'portfolio', they often think of investments, stocks, or a collection of projects. But for me, the most precious portfolio is my family.
The bonds I share with my family members are the priceless assets that have shaped my character, molded my values, and fortified my resilience. Just as an investor diversifies his portfolio to weather the ups and downs of the market, the diverse personalities and experiences within my family have equipped me to navigate the challenges and triumphs of life.
Each family member represents a unique investment of time, love, and memories. From the earliest lessons of integrity taught by my parents, to the collaborative ventures with siblings, and the untapped potential of younger generations, every interaction has been a transaction of wisdom, guidance, and growth.
While businesses may have their cycles of booms and busts, the dividends from the investment in family are consistently rewarding. The joy of shared successes, the comfort in collective mourning, and the strength in united challenges - these are the returns that no financial portfolio can ever match.
In the grand scheme of things, while ventures, certifications, and businesses hold their significant place, it's my family portfolio that truly defines my wealth and success. It’s the foundation upon which everything else stands, the core that fuels all my endeavors, and the legacy I cherish the most.
CONTACT ME
Whether you have a query, feedback, or just want to share a thought, I'm always eager to connect. Reaching out is the first step towards collaboration, understanding, and growth. Don't hesitate to drop me a line - let's start a conversation that could lead to incredible synergies. I look forward to hearing from you!