Dr. Nasim BAHARI

University Professor & Management Consultant

PhD in Management

Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee Member

MSc in Transportation and Sustainable Development Engineering

Project Management Professional (PMP®) & Certified Scrum Master (CSM®)

For

Newmarket Ward 1 Councillor

A Message from Nasim BAHARI to Newmarket Ward 1 Residents

Dear Newmarket Ward 1 Residents,

As a Ward 1 resident and parent, I care deeply about our neighbourhoods and the future of Newmarket.

As a university professor, management consultant, and community volunteer, I bring thoughtful leadership and responsible decision-making to serve our community.

I will listen to residents, advocate for Ward 1, and work to protect what makes our neighbourhoods special while building a stronger future for Newmarket, so that our children can choose to stay, build their careers, and raise their families here.

Thank you for your support and trust.

Priorities:

Protect Our Neighbourhoods

Protecting and enhancing the quality of life in Ward 1 for everyone, including residents of all ages, abilities, and diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds, by maintaining safe, clean, and well-kept neighborhoods and preserving our valued green spaces.

Advocate for Ward 1

Advocating for the interests of Ward 1 residents in broader Town of Newmarket decisions.

Strengthen Community Life

Supporting community life through arts, sports, culture, and local events that reflect our town’s diversity and bring residents together in a vibrant, welcoming, and inclusive Newmarket.

Support Local Businesses and Arts

Supporting local arts, businesses, sports, cultural activities, and community events that provide services, strengthen community connections, and enhance the quality of life.

Plan for a Sustainable Future

Planning with a long-term vision that keeps Newmarket prosperous and full of opportunities, so that our children choose to stay, build their careers, and raise their families here in Newmarket.

Build a Stronger Newmarket

Positioning Newmarket within the broader regional and national context by working collaboratively with neighboring municipalities, as well as provincial and federal governments, to improve infrastructure, attract investment, and expand opportunities for residents.

Support Jobs & Grow Opportunities

Strengthening job creation and workforce development by strengthening skills training, fostering partnerships, and connecting residents with opportunities.

About Dr. Nasim BAHARI

Nasim BAHARI is an experienced university professor, management consultant, and community volunteer with more than a decade of experience working across academia, industry, communities, and public–private innovation initiatives in Canada, France, and the United States.

Throughout her career, Nasim BAHARI has worked with universities, governments, businesses, entrepreneurs, startups, and community stakeholders to support innovation, economic development, education, workforce development, sustainable growth, and collaborative decision-making.

Nasim BAHARI is passionate about community engagement, responsible leadership, economic development, sustainability, inclusivity, and diversity. Her multicultural experience has deepened her passion for engaging with diverse cultures and perspectives to strengthen collaboration and inclusion within communities. Nasim BAHARI is driven to connect research, education, practice, and community knowledge to generate lasting economic and social impact.

Academic Experience

Nasim BAHARI holds a PhD in Management from Telecom Paris in France, a Master’s degree in Transportation and Sustainable Development Engineering from France (École Polytechnique / Mines / Ponts), and professional certifications including Project Management Professional (PMP®) and Certified Scrum Master (CSM®).

Nasim BAHARI speaks both English and French.

Nasim BAHARI has taught numerous business and project management courses to graduate and undergraduate students at universities in Canada, the United States, and France, including Northeastern University, Lakehead University, Algoma University, University of Alaska, and Telecom Paris. She has also led the design of innovative university programs aligned with workforce and community needs.

Dr. BAHARI's research and advisory work focus on innovation ecosystems, public–private partnerships, business model innovation, project portfolio management, and the adoption of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence. Nasim BAHARI publishes and presents at international conferences, supervises graduate research and capstone projects, reviews academic work, and has contributed to the PMBOK® Guide (8th edition).

Professional Experience

In addition to her academic work, Nasim BAHARI brings extensive experience in management consulting and strategic advisory services. As a co-founder of a management consulting company, Benda Solutions, she has supported numerous startups, small businesses, entrepreneurs, SMEs, and innovation-driven organizations across diverse sectors, including technology, healthcare, transportation, sustainability, construction, sports, creative industries, and artificial intelligence. Her work has focused on strategic planning, business planning, business development, operational improvement, and sustainability.

Dr. BAHARI also serves as a reviewer of innovation and R&D project proposals at the Ontario Centre of Innovation, contributing to evidence-based funding decisions and strengthening innovation ecosystems across Ontario.

Nasim BAHARI previously managed and contributed to large-scale public–private R&D and innovation programs in the transportation and automotive sectors at Renault Group (French multinational car manufacturer), Wabtec/Faiveley Transport (Rail technologies manufacturer) and the Vedecom Institute (French sustainable mobility innovation institute), collaborating with government agencies, industry leaders, municipalities, community stakeholders, and research institutions to strengthen regional development, sustainability, stakeholder engagement, and long-term community impact.

Community Service and Volunteering

Beyond her professional and academic work, Nasim BAHARI is actively engaged in community service, economic development, and professional volunteerism.

Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee:

Nasim BAHARI has been an active member of the Newmarket Economic Development Advisory Committee, NEDAC, and has contributed to discussions on sustainable growth, entrepreneurship, community branding, innovation, business attraction, tourism, and community development while collaborating with municipal leaders, staff, and local stakeholders.

Council member at Mazo de la Roche French Immersion School in Newmarket

Nasim BAHARI has served as a Council member at Mazo de la Roche French Immersion School in Newmarket, supporting school governance, strategic decision-making, student success, and community engagement.

East Gwillimbury Economic Development Advisory Committee

Nasim BAHARI has also served on the East Gwillimbury Economic Development Advisory Committee and contributed to initiatives that support economic growth, innovation, and long-term community development.

Reviewer for scientific journals and conferences

Dr. BAHARI serves as a reviewer for scientific journals and conferences in business and management research.

Project Management Institute (PMI)

Internationally, Dr. BAHARI has volunteered with the Global Accreditation Center (GAC) of the Project Management Institute, supporting the accreditation of project management education programs. Nasim BAHARI is an active member of the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Endorsement

I am pleased to endorse Dr. Nasim BAHARI in the upcoming Newmarket Municipal Election for Councillor in Ward 1. She is a resident in that Ward which provides her with the direct and specific knowledge of that Ward supported by her professional background for citizens and businesses.

I am most impressed with her skills and abilities, knowledge, and desire to help others. Based on that, I feel confident that she will work diligently for the citizens not only in her Ward, but also with Council as a whole, the municipal staff, along with citizens and businesses. I have seen her commitment already in reaching out to the community in wanting to make a difference to ensure that citizens have a voice, that Newmarket is a community that supports the residents in living, working and playing in our Great Town.

Her personality will reach out and make a difference, encouraging and engaging people to be an active part of and a voice in the community.

Having been a part of Newmarket Council for almost two decades, along with being on the Council of York Region with many other appointments, I know what it takes, and Dr. BAHARI will certainly meet and exceed her commitment and contribution to Newmarket and to you, now and going into our future. Please vote for a person that you can count on and trust for now and into our future. She will make a difference, but only if you vote for her. Your vote is your voice and Newmarket is a great community.

Diane Humeniuk

Former Newmarket Councillor & York Regional Councillor

Endorsement

I am pleased to endorse Dr. Nasim BAHARI, candidate for Ward 1 Councillor in Newmarket’s 2026 municipal election. I first became familiar with her in 2017, when I delivered a speech at the annual meeting of the Ontario Centres of Innovation as Minister of Research, Innovation and Science.

Nasim brings valuable academic and management expertise, along with a commitment to public service. I believe she has the skills, experience, and professional judgment to make a meaningful contribution to the Town of Newmarket. I am glad to endorse Dr. Nasim BAHARI’s candidacy for Ward 1 Councillor.

Hon. Reza Moridi, PhD, ECO

Former MPP and Cabinet Minister

Endorsement

I am glad to endorse Dr. Nasim BAHARI for Ward 1 Councillor. Dr. BAHARI is a visionary leader who thinks beyond today and looks toward the future of our town.

Dr. BAHARI cares deeply about creating opportunities for our children and building a Newmarket where families can thrive and future generations can succeed. I believe her forward-thinking approach and dedication to our town will make a real difference.

Azar Ghorbanian

Retired Teacher & Active Community Volunteer

Endorsement

I first met Dr. Nasim BAHARI at one of the Newmarket Economic Development Focus Groups, organized by the Town of Newmarket and held at Old Town Hall.

I was impressed by her knowledge and expertise, her insightful contributions to the discussion, and her volunteerism and dedication to building a stronger Newmarket.

I am happy that she has put her name forward for Ward 1 Councillor in Newmarket, and I am confident that she will bring her expertise, knowledge, and commitment to the role.

Dela Fotoohi

Registered Psychotherapist, Author & CEO of SIMA

Endorsement

I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Nasim BAHARI recently and was very impressed by her professional background and commitment to the Town of Newmarket. I have no doubt she would be an excellent addition to Town Council, and I have no reservations about endorsing her.

Chris Campbell

Principal at Chris Campbell Performance Coaching

Endorsement

I am pleased to endorse Dr. Nasim BAHARI as Ward 1 Newmarket Councillor for 2026. As my former professor and advisor, Dr. BAHARI demonstrated firsthand devotion, professionalism, knowledge, and genuine commitment to enabling both me and student populations to exceed our potential. Throughout her tenure, she remained thoughtful, available, a careful listener, and brought a strong, evidence-based perspective, qualities that make her a strong advocate for all Ward 1 communities.

Furthermore, I offer these sentiments and encourage Ward 1 residents to consider her performance for development, continuity, and reform. During her recent work, her support and contributions included rising advancement rates, mentorship opportunities, administrative upgrades, and assistance with a variety of community-led initiatives.

Dr. Nasim BAHARI remains unwavering in her accountability and continued commitment to serving by example and leading through experience.

Lucian Blake

MSc., PMP., Project Manager

Endorsement

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Dr. Nasim BAHARI for the past seven years. We’ve lived in the Ward 1 community, and our children have grown up together. They are still good friends today and attend the same school, so I’ve had the opportunity to see Nasim as a neighbour, a parent, and an active part of our local community over many years.

What stands out to me about Nasim is the way she connects with people. She takes the time to get to know her neighbours, listens to different perspectives, and genuinely cares about the families and children in our community. Through our children’s school and our day-to-day life in the neighbourhood, I’ve seen firsthand how approachable, thoughtful, and supportive she is.

Nasim is educated, kind, responsible, and compassionate. She understands our community because she is part of it and has experienced many of the same everyday joys and concerns that local families do.

Having known Nasim and her family for so many years, I’m happy to express my personal support for her as she steps forward to represent our community. I believe her personal connection to the neighbourhood, her ability to listen, and her genuine care for the people around her are qualities that will serve our community well.

Sara Mirfatahi

Newmarket Ward 1 Resident

Newmarket Ward 1 Residents Survey

I am conducting a short survey to better understand the priorities, concerns, and ideas of Ward 1 residents.

As a candidate for Ward 1 Councillor, I would appreciate hearing directly from residents about what matters most to you and what you would like to see improved in our community.

The survey takes just a few minutes. Your input is greatly appreciated.

Survey

Share Your Voice

I would be happy to meet with Ward 1 residents, listen to your ideas, and hear your thoughts about our community. Your experiences and perspectives are important in shaping the future of Newmarket.

Send an email to dr.nasim.bahari@gmail.com and let's arrange a meeting.

Join the Volunteer Team

A successful campaign is built by people who care about their community. I invite residents who want to contribute their time, skills, and energy to join our team.

Whether you can help with outreach, events, conversations, or sharing information, every contribution makes a difference.

Send an email to dr.nasim.bahari@gmail.com and become part of the team.

Get a Lawn Sign

If you would like to display a campaign sign in your front yard during the four weeks leading up to the election, we would be happy to deliver and install it for you.

Send an email to dr.nasim.bahari@gmail.com to request a lawn sign.

Support the Campaign

If you would like to contribute financially, your support will help us reach more residents and share our message for a stronger future for Ward 1 and Newmarket.

Send an email to dr.nasim.bahari@gmail.com and support our campaign.

Vote October 17-26, 2026

Newmarket voters will be able to cast their ballots online or in person during the 10-day voting period from October 17 to October 26, 2026.

Send an email to dr.nasim.bahari@gmail.com if you need more information.

Your Vote Your Voice

Dr. Nasim BAHARI

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