By DMZ, Tech Incubator
September 5, 2024
When Executive Director of DMZ, Abdullah Snobar, was invited to be the cover and feature story of the inaugural issue of 3 Magazine, it was a chance to step into a new light—one that offered him the opportunity to share his story and celebrate the people who shaped him.
The experience was both exhilarating and introspective, allowing DMZ’s Executive Director of 9 years to reflect on his career journey, his family and the values that have molded him to become one of Canada’s most inspiring tech leaders and the driving force behind DMZ’s success.
3 Magazine represents more than just another media publication. At DMZ, we’re ecstatic about this new platform because it embodies a mission that deeply resonates with our own values.
The magazine reflects the ambitions of global citizens, captures the resilience of Canadian newcomers and explores the rich intersection of diverse cultures that define modern Canada. It celebrates Third Culture Individuals and the culturally curious, honouring those who are born in one place but enriched by the experiences of many others.
3 Magazine is a testament to the power of storytelling from diverse perspectives, much like the founders we support at DMZ, who bring unique insights to the Canadian innovation landscape.
Behind the scenes: The making of Abdullah’s feature on 3 magazine
From the initial outreach to the celebratory launch party, the entire process unfolded in just around a month, culminating in a story that captures the essence of Abdullah’s leadership and the deep-rooted values that guide him.
The story told in 3 and written by Melissa Vincent, is one of the most authentic portrayals of Abdullah to date. It doesn’t just highlight his accomplishments; it delves into the heart of who he is, drawing a vivid picture of a leader who is as proud of his family roots as he is of his professional achievements. This feature gave Abdullah a rare opportunity to showcase the personal side of his journey—something he’s deeply proud of but doesn’t often get the chance to share.
Abdullah credits the depth and authenticity of the story to Vincent’s exceptional storytelling skills.
The photoshoot for the magazine was another memorable part of the experience. It was a day that allowed Abdullah to step outside of his usual comfort zone, embracing a side of creativity and expression that’s not typically part of his day-to-day.
Abdullah’s approach: Why it’s not what we do, but how we do it.
One standout piece from Abdullah’s feature article explores his philosophy of excellence, a principle that has been a key pillar behind DMZ’s unique approach in the market. Abdullah’s perspective is clear: At DMZ, it’s not what we do that’s special; it’s how we do it.
Abdullah’s commitment to service excellence and going above and beyond for the founders we have the privilege of supporting has defined DMZ and shaped our programming in many ways.
We pay attention to detail to ensure every aspect of our founders’ needs is met by embracing a spirit to serve. His motto? To achieve excellence, you must be ruthless on quality across the board—that’s the bottom line.
This philosophy draws from the newcomer experience. “Immigrants have nothing to lose because they’re starting from zero, but everything to lose because they have people that rely on them to survive,” Abdullah noted in his interview with 3. Whether it’s specialty food markets going above and beyond in curating products that cater to their community’s need or salons and barbershops providing personalized consultations and offering services that cater to specific cultural needs, these touches are what set the newcomer mentality — and their commitment to service excellence — apart.
Coming full circle: Celebrating his family’s impact in his success
Abdullah’s family played a significant role in his upbringing and he attributes a lot of who he is today to them. Abe and Mo—both prominently featured in the piece as significant influences in his life— had always been there.
“Growing up, I was the observer,” Abdullah recalled. “I watched my brothers, learned from their mistakes, and found my path by balancing their boldness with my own cautious curiosity.”
Their presence at the event was a full-circle moment—a celebration of the family values that have been at the core of Abdullah’s personal and professional ethos.
Abdullah’s journey from behind the camera to the cover of 3 Magazine is more than a story of personal growth; it’s a reflection of the values that drive DMZ forward. It’s about understanding that success is not just a goal but a process rooted in resilience, empathy, and a deep connection to community.
3 Magazine is an exciting new chapter for Canadian media, and at DMZ, we are proud to support its mission and its storytelling. Abdullah’s feature captures the essence of what makes our approach unique—an unwavering commitment to excellence, driven by the values of the diverse communities we serve.
Read the full story on Abdullah by heading to dmz.to/3magazine.
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DMZ would like to give a huge thank you to the outstanding team at 3 Magazine.
Publisher: Muraly Srinarayanathas / @muralysrinarayanathas
Editor-in-Chief: Stacy Lee Kong / @stacyleekongSenior
Art Director: Adam Cholewa / @admchlw
Photo Editor: Jalani Morgan / @jalanimorgan
Photographer: Sahar Rana / @saharrranaAssistant:
Jasmine Mistry / @jaspmistryStyling:
Neil Franklyn / @neio101 @judyinc
Grooming: Ty Wilson / @tywilsonmua @judyinc
Writer Melissa Vincent / @melissajuicebox
