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HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | AUGUST 11, 2025 2025 AWARDS | 40 UNDER FORTY 27 Celebrating those at the forefront In recognition of his outstanding leadership, we congratulate Rafey Zaheer, along with the other 40 Under 40 honorees! We are proud to support these young professionals and the Hartford Business Journal's commitment to growing business and strengthening communities. Rafey Zaheer, CEO and Founder Medzah Industries medzah.com Rafey Zaheer is founder and CEO of Medzah Industries, a leading manufacturer and distributor of disposable medical sup- plies, including exam gloves, mobility aids, orthopedic soft goods and custom lab kits. Over nine years, he grew the company from one employee to 80, expanding its reach from New England nationwide with a Dallas distribution center. Medzah generated $34 million in rev- enue in 2024, and is projected to exceed that in 2025. Peter Zarella is a trial and appellate attorney at McCarter & English, a full-service AMLAW 150 law firm. Zarella regularly represents clients in state and federal court matters involving breaches of contract, business torts, partnership disputes, creditors rights and commercial real estate. He represents a diverse group of clients, including closely held businesses, venture capital firms, manufacturing companies, REITs, energy companies, estate fiduciaries and private individuals. What's been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? In 2025, under my leadership, Medzah was honored as Manufacturer of the Year in Connecticut by the U.S. Small Business Administration and went on to earn the same distinction for the entire New England region, recognizing the company's innovation, growth and impact in the manufacturing sector. How are you involved in the community? I support community engagement through cultural recognition and inclusion. We recently hosted an Eid celebration at Boston Children's Hospital to reflect our commitment to diversity. Medzah also launched a 501(c)(3) non- profit focused on meaningful causes, especially improving the lives of vulner- able populations, including children. Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty? • Grown second successful company from local region to national footprint sup- ported by a robust, global supply chain. • Named U.S. Small Business Administration 2025 Manufacturer of the Year for Connecticut and New England Region. • Recognized as Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council 2024 Supplier of the Year; 2024 Firecracker Award (awarded to fastest-growing company). What's been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career? My proudest moments are from my first times being lead at trial and arguing counsel at the Connecticut Supreme Court. Having these early opportunities to design a strategy with clients and then go successfully execute in the courtroom are foundational to my ability to aggres - sively advocate for my clients today. How are you involved in the community? I currently serve on Farmington's Town Plan & Zoning Commission and on committees at St. Mary's School in Simsbury. I'm active in the Connecticut Bar Association and involved with sev - eral local bar groups. My family are also members of the Irish American Home Society and other social clubs. What do you like to do outside of work? With four children ages seven and under, my wife Caitlin and I are often at a sports game, dance recital or looking for family weekend adventures. In my rare "free time," you can find me on the golf course, out for a run or catching up with friends. Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty? • Extensive and successful professional experience in high-stakes matters. • Recognized leader in bar association and professional publications. • Committed to fostering civility and pro- fessionalism within the legal practice. Rafey Zaheer Company: Medzah Industries LLC Title: Chief Executive Officer Number of years with current company: 9 Town where I live: South Windsor Town where I work: Glastonbury College: University of Connecticut Highest degree: Bachelors' degree in communication, University of Connecticut Age: 35 Peter J. Zarella Company: McCarter & English LLP Title: Partner Number of years with current company: 1 Town where I live: Farmington Town where I work: Hartford College: Western New England Univer- sity School of Law Highest degree: Juris Doctor degree, Western New England University School of Law Age: 37