Sime Darby's Turse Zuhair among six Ford global leaders recognised for community contributions

NEW ORLEANS: Sime Darby Auto Connexion managing director Turse Zuhair Nahason Affan has been honoured by Ford recently for leading community-focused initiatives.

His efforts included upgrading rural school infrastructure, distributing food supplies, and implementing clean water projects for 200 indigenous families.

Ford distributor Sime Darby Auto Connexion also backs welfare programmes for senior citizens and sustainable farming projects to enhance food security and local incomes.

Chip Miller of Miller Ford Lincoln in New Jersey was recognised for establishing support programmes benefiting employees and local organisations. Initiatives include a scholarship fund for employee children and financial assistance for workers facing emergencies. His dealership has contributed to numerous charities, including the American Cancer Society, Boy Scouts of America, and local youth and theatre groups.


Ed Bloom of Sioux Falls Ford in South Dakota was honoured for supporting veterans, first responders, and children with critical illnesses. His dealership helps fund non-profits like South Dakota Salutes and Make-A-Wish. Bloom has been involved in organising events for injured veterans and providing financial support for cancer treatment through the Avera Race Against Cancer.

Jack Feng of Zhengzhou Hejun Automobile Sales in China was recognised for disaster relief efforts and social welfare initiatives. He has funded recovery projects following natural disasters and financed school improvements and healthcare services. His contributions extend to providing scholarships for underprivileged students and creating a community fund for ongoing charitable work.

Mike Marcotte of Marcotte Ford in Massachusetts was awarded for his dealership’s involvement in youth and family support. The dealership has provided resources to local food banks, funded educational exhibits at the Children’s Museum, and delivered toys and basic necessities to underserved families. Marcotte’s team regularly volunteers at local charities, including food distribution centres.

Jared Priestner of Team Ford in Canada earned recognition for spearheading projects focused on education and children’s welfare. His Fuels the Schools programme has delivered over 500,000 free meals, and his family’s funding of Thrive Elementary provides education and meals to underprivileged students. His dealership also supports major funding for the Kids with Cancer Society and renovates public basketball courts to improve recreational facilities.