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Jack Mahfar

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Jack Mahfar (born 1931 in Esfahan, Iran) is an Iranian businessman known for his contributions to the pharmaceutical industry and philanthropic initiatives in Iran and Europe.

Early Life and Education

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Mahfar was born into a Jewish family in the Joubareh district of Isfahan. His father, Haj Helel Mah-gerefteh, was among the early graduates of the Alliance School in Isfahan and was proficient in French. He attended the Ayin School, a Christian missionary institution, before enrolling at the Alliance High School and later the School of Literature. His education was interrupted in 1948 when his father was diagnosed with bone tuberculosis, leading the family to relocate to Tehran for medical treatment.[1]

Career in the Pharmaceutical Industry

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In Tehran, Mahfar began working at Rey Pharmacy under Dr. Moussa Bral, a prominent figure in the Jewish community. Starting as an apprentice, he gained experience that enabled him to establish Mahfar Co., representing international pharmaceutical companies, including Astra of Sweden. The company produced medications under licenses from European firms.[1]

Mahfar proposed establishing a pharmaceutical factory to produce essential drugs locally, aiming to reduce import dependency and enhance affordability. The project, supported by international firms, was halted due to the Iranian Revolution of 1979.[1]

Philanthropy and Community Contributions

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Mahfar contributed significantly to the Iranian Jewish community and the broader society. He funded the construction of schools, nursing homes, and homes for employees. His efforts were recognized by Iranian Jewish leaders and government officials.[citation needed]

After he emigrated to Switzerland, Mahfar continued his philanthropic activities, including building synagogues in Israel, supporting medical centers, and funding educational initiatives such as the Encyclopædia Iranica.[2]

Emigration from Iran

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Following the Islamic Revolution, Mahfar's business was nationalized, and he relocated to Geneva. In Switzerland, he established a new pharmaceutical business and engaged in humanitarian efforts, including aiding in the release of Iranian Jews imprisoned in Shiraz.[2]

Recognition and awards

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Mahfar received multiple awards for his contributions:

  1. Legion of Honor Award from French President Nicolas Sarkozy for his philanthropic efforts.[3]
  2. President's Award of Distinction from Israeli President Shimon Peres on January 30, 2014.[4]

Sources

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  1. ^ a b c "Jack Mahfar - Iranian Jewish Culure". 2021-11-03. Retrieved 2025-03-30.
  2. ^ a b "Jack Mahfar - Iranian Jewish Culure". 2021-11-03. Retrieved 2025-01-12.
  3. ^ debbie62140 (2010-06-19). Légion d'honneur presented by president Nicolas Sarkozy in London 18th June 2010. Retrieved 2025-01-12 – via YouTube.{{cite AV media}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  4. ^ "President honors eight Israelis with presidential award". The Jerusalem Post | JPost.com. 2014-01-30. Retrieved 2025-01-12.
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