Naumann Mascati, a 16-year-old Surrey, British Columbia high school student helped organize a tree planting event in Orchard Grove Park on October 14. The group of more than 30 volunteers, including young children, teens, and adults, planted nearly 40 trees. The event was initiated to mark the 80th 
birthday of the Dawoodi Bohra’s global leader, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, and as a tribute to the Syedna’s emphasis on environmental awareness and conservation. Mascati partnered with Releaf Tree Planting, an initiative by the City of Surrey to grow Surrey's urban
forest by planting shrubs and trees in local parks. The group planted trees and shrubs including Big Leaf Maple, Douglas Fir, Western Redcedar, Snowberry, Thimbleberry and Red Flowering Currant in a
designated area of the park. The selection of these tree species was carefully made to ensure they are well-suited to the local climate and ecosystem, ultimately contributing to the neighbourhood long-term
sustainability. “I’ve regularly been involved in environmental protection programs, taking part and leading cleanups around my high school and at a local park,” said Mascati. “ I am glad that kids in my community took part in this event so we can learn from a young age the importance of planting trees. Our youth should be part of the solution for the Climate Crisis that we are currently facing; It’s a priority to protect our planet for our future.”
The Dawoodi Bohras of the Greater Vancouver Area are a community of more than 200 people. The tree planting event was held as part of their global Project Rise initiative, which strives to raise standards of
healthcare, nutrition, education, water and sanitation among vulnerable members of society, while protecting and enhancing the natural environment. Bohras throughout North America are hosting similar events.
Mascati said he plans for the tree planting to be an annual event.
Reference Links:
Releaf Tree Planting, City of Surrey Orchard Grove Park
Dawoodi Bohra Community, Vancouver
Article and Pictures Courtesy of the Dawoodi Bohra Community of Vancouver
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
