Behzad Hakim is a current student at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law. Prior to pursuing law, he received his Bachelor of Commerce from Toronto Metropolitan University and built a career in finance and strategy at Fortune 500 companies, including Procter & Gamble, Starbucks, and Unilever. Driven by a firm belief in the importance of protecting democratic governance both in Canada and across the globe, Behzad founded the Canadian Institute for Defence of Democracies, where he continues to serve as Executive Director. He has also served in Engagement Relations at the NATO Association of Canada, further deepening his commitment to democratic resilience and international cooperation.

Behzad is passionate about equipping Canadians with the civic awareness and tools necessary to recognize and confront the growing threats facing democratic societies today.