Celebrating The National Club - Home to Canada's leaders since 1874

As we look ahead to our 150th?anniversary in 2024, we are proud to celebrate the achievement of our members. If you have any questions or comments about the Club or would like to be featured in a National Club member profile, please feel free to write to?[email protected].

DENNIS GORYA

Dennis is an e-commerce entrepreneur and has been a member since 2017. You can find Dennis on LinkedIn – he’s always open to a chat.

Who or what inspired you to become a member of the National Club??

A close family member and mentor of mine, Vicky Bagwalla had brought me to the club when I was in my senior year of high school. At that time, I had an interest but not a need to join. Once my business started to flourish, I saw the club as not only an opportunity to connect with likeminded individuals, but also as a space that I could rely on when away from the office. My use of the club has now evolved to be an escape from work – with good people, amazing food and of course we can’t forget the wine cellar.

What surprised you the most about the National Club, after you joined?

I knew a bit about the history of the club, but when you really have an opportunity to dive in, it’s fascinating. I was and still am surprised with how much I learn about the club every time I visit.?

If you could bring a favourite person (including historical persons, living or dead) to one event at the National Club, who and which event would it be??

I would bring Steve Jobs. It would be a dream to pick that brain and gain a glimpse into his perspective of the world. As for the event, that’s a tricky one as I really love the variety the club offers. If I had to choose one, I would go for the Christmas brunch because it’s always festive, entertaining, and good time.

What did you miss most about the National Club during the Covid lockdowns??

I missed the cigar nights with my close friends. Prior to the lockdowns, being able to unwind after a long workday on the rooftop patio, enjoying a cigar and drink was one of my favourite things to do.?

What is a fun fact that your friends might not know about you??

I started my entrepreneurial journey at the tender age of 12 as a professional magician. If you watch closely, you might see a pigeon fly out of my sport coat.

What is your favourite occupation – if time and money were no object??

I really enjoy what I do today – working with famous brands to run their e-commerce operations on a global scale. Further to that, it’s part of my plans to start our own e-commerce stores and have fun growing those businesses. I personally find it very rewarding, and I love the unique challenges it presents.

What is your favourite quote??

The common question that gets asked in business is, 'why?' That's a good question, but an equally valid question is, 'why not?'

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Seeing people in positions of power abusing that power. I truly believe that it starts with being human first – kindness and compassion doesn’t cost anything.

Which fictional character do you identify with the most???

Recently, the character Simon from the movie “Love Simon” just because I relate to the self-discovery journey at an early age which I don’t see often.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement??

I enjoy giving back if there’s a meaningful way to make an impact. I am really proud to see how a small NFP (EDGE https://www.edgeleadership.ca/), I started with a few friends in university has since morphed to become impactful to underrepresented students across Canada. Diversity and inclusion being a topic of interest for me, I was really happy to see how we were able to move the needle.??