Giving Back Magazine October 2018 | Page 58

Leader VAHID MORADI Inspiring Others V ahid Moradi, president & CEO of CJ Charles Jewelers, is an active philanthropist in the San Diego community. Over the years, he has donated extraordinary jewelry pieces and fine watches to support great causes such as the UCSD Moores Cancer Center, Miracle Babies, Voices for Children, and more. Cancer research is one of the major causes that he dedicates much of his time and generosity to. He hopes that his dedication will inspire others to get involved. Vahid Moradi at the new CJ Charles Jewelers in Westfield UTC Giving Back: How would you describe your philanthropic mission? Vahid Moradi: For one, the fight against cancer is the single most important mission for any human being in the century. It is my belief that we are making immense strides in finding a cure. I have been on the board of UCSD Moores Cancer Center for four years and have witnessed amazing scientific advances in research and treatment. GB: Describe your first donation to UCSD Moores Cancer Center. VW: The first donation to UCSD Moores was in 2015. It was a ring we designed and built for their annual gala to be auctioned off. The piece was created with a natural Colombian emerald set in platinum with colorless diamond side stones. The auction started incredibly strong and the final bid on the piece exceeded our initial estimate. One cannot 58 GBSAN.COM | OCTOBER 2018