The Viceregal Lion
  1. The Governor General of Canada
Heraldry Today

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Hafiz Feezer Kassam

Rocklin, California, United States of America
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
January 15, 2021
Vol. VII, p. 327

Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.


Blazon

Arms

Sable a chevron between in chief two wolves’ heads erased respectant and in base a gauntlet clenched Or;

Crest

A bear rampant Sable grasping a rod of Aesculapius and standing on an open book Or bound Sable;

Motto

SINE TIMORE INVICTUS SUM,

Flag

A banner of the Arms;

Badge

A gauntlet Or charged in base with a chevron couped Sable and grasping a rod of Aesculapius fesswise Or, its serpent Sable;


Symbolism

Arms

For Dr. Kassam, the chevron represents overcoming adversity and achieving one’s desires. The armoured fist also symbolizes struggle and the fortitude to face challenges. It furthermore alludes to Dr. Kassam’s participation in the sport of boxing. The wolf is a symbol that has long been used by his family.

Crest

The bear is another symbol that has long been used by Dr. Kassam’s family. It has also become a symbol of Canada, his adopted home. The rod of Aesculapius represents both Dr. Kassam’s and his sister’s careers as medical doctors, as well as his family’s dedication to helping those in need and to returning the kindness they received when they were welcomed into Canada. The open book represents education and the central role it has played in Dr. Kassam’s and his family’s history. It supports the bear, alluding to Dr. Kassam’s belief that education has been the foundation upon which his family’s progress and pursuit of a better life in Canada has been built.

Motto

Meaning “Without fear, I am unconquered,” this Latin phrase represents courage in the face of hardship and the tenacity to achieve one’s objectives in life.

Flag

The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.

Badge

The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.


Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on March 27, 2021, in Volume 155, page 1321 of the Canada Gazette.


Artist Information

Creator(s)
Original concept of Teva Vidal, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Painter
Desirée Kern

Calligrapher
Yolande Lessard


Recipient Information

Individual