Behzad Hakim

Behzad Hakim is an accomplished alumnus of Toronto Metropolitan University, holding a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, with extensive experience in finance and strategy across the consumer goods sector. He is currently a law student at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law.

Behzad’s commitment to defending democratic values was shaped by the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, events that underscored the growing threats to global stability and democratic institutions. In response, he founded the Canadian Institute for Defence of Democracies (CIDD). As Executive Director, he leads initiatives that educate Canadians on emerging security challenges and advance policy solutions that reinforce the international rules-based order.

He also serves as Secretary-General of the Youth Atlantic Treaty Association of Canada and works in Engagement Relations at the NATO Association of Canada. Through these roles, Behzad focuses on strengthening public understanding of democracy, national security, and Canada’s role within global alliances.