Behind our foundation stands a community of philanthropists, inspired by Tom’s belief that everyone has the power to give and transform lives.

From vision to action.

Get to know the visionary leaders and dedicated partners united by a shared mission: To carry forward Tom’s legacy of generosity and commitment to community. Our team, guided by the values of compassion, innovation, and unity, tirelessly works to support local causes, driving impactful change that resonates through our community.

Comittee Members

Tony is a sixth-generation Harris born and raised in Nanaimo. A University of Western Ontario alum, he leads Tony Harris Developments and Harris Auto Group. His expertise spans real estate, hospitality, and marine sectors. As chair of the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, he advocates for a new tertiary hospital to meet the island’s needs. Founder of THCF, Tony has driven fundraising efforts, amassing millions for local charities. He balances his professional achievements with his roles as a dedicated husband and father of three.

Tony Harris
Founder & Chair

Born and raised in Nanaimo, Leslie is the Volunteer & Hospitality Chair for THCF and the Tom Harris Charity Classic. Following the loss of her father-in-law Tom, Leslie played a key role in initiating the THCC event in his honour. She handles volunteer coordination, event registration, decor planning, and more. Her work keeps her connected to Tom’s legacy, promoting his values of support and philanthropy. Living by the ocean, Leslie values her community and is dedicated to making an impact with her family.

Leslie Harris
Director of Volunteer & Hospitality

A lifelong resident of Nanaimo, Cody brings extensive real estate expertise to THCF. With over 16 years in the field, he’s earned prestigious accolades such as the Top 20 Under 40 and the Gold CARE Award. Cody has raised over $2.5 million for local causes and serves on several charity boards. As THCF’s Golf Chair, he merges his passion for golf with philanthropy, amplifying the foundation’s impact. Off the clock, Cody cherishes time with his fiancé, four daughters, and their Maltese Shih Tzu.

Cody Dreger
Director of Partnerships

Zaki joined the THCF through an internship with Tony Harris while studying at Vancouver Island University. Drawn to the foundation due to his own experiences with poverty and a strong tradition of community service, Zaki deeply values philanthropy. He has contributed to various charities including Right to Live in Bangalore, and fundraising efforts for the Moose Hide Campaign & Childhood Cancer Canada Foundation. Having moved to Nanaimo in 2016 and becoming a Canadian citizen in 2023, Zaki cherishes the close-knit community and the city’s natural beauty.

Zaki Mohammed
Director of Logistics & Administration

Travis has been a steadfast Nanaimo resident for over three decades, valuing its tight-knit community and natural surroundings. As the Operations Chair, he’s dedicated to improving community welfare and supporting initiatives that create significant impact. Travis manages event logistics from course setup and teardown to signage and food & beverage coordination. His role is crucial in ensuring the smooth execution of events, supporting his team members, and contributing to the foundation’s success through meticulous organization and a hands-on approach.

Travis Armstrong
Director of Operations

Moe moved to Nanaimo in 2013 to study at Vancouver Island University and joined THCF as a volunteer in 2018. Motivated by the profound influence Tom Harris had within the community, his involvement started through the 20 under 40 initiative, leading him to discover and connect with the foundation’s values. As Technology Chair, Moe enhances THCF’s initiatives with modern technological solutions for greater impact. He deeply values the city’s close-knit community and peaceful lifestyle, further fuelling his dedication to its progress.

Moe Akbar
Director of Technology

Nanaimo Foundation

In our journey to make a meaningful impact, the Tom Harris Community Foundation is honoured to partner with the Nanaimo Foundation to sustain a vibrant legacy of giving and community support. Our collaboration benefits from the foundational leadership of Tom Harris, whose tenure as past chair of the board has significantly enhanced our ability to gather and allocate resources for the greater good. We stand united in our mission to nurture community vitality and resilience, ensuring fundamental needs are met across the region.

Meet the friends of Tom
pitching in for progress.