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Volunteering and community service have long defined the life of Winnipeg native Hiren Shah. The 45-year-old has followed in the footsteps of his father, Hemant Shah, a well-known figure celebrated for strengthening Indo-Canadian relations and advancing trade partnerships.
Guided by his father’s example, Hiren has built a reputation for sincerity, loyalty, and a sustained commitment to community work. His professional journey reflects the same values. Despite the common perception that Western workplaces operate on a “hire and fire” mentality, Hiren has spent nearly three decades with his first employer. He began working at McDonald’s at age 15 while attending school and has risen through the ranks to serve as director for franchise owner-operators, a career trajectory rarely seen in Canada.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Hiren has become a respected figure in Winnipeg’s volunteer landscape. He was recently recognized by the city for his wide-ranging contributions.
“I am humbled to share that this year I have been a recipient of the 2025 Mayor’s Volunteer Service award (Winnipeg) through Volunteer Manitoba,” he said. “Giving back to my community has been an important part of my life for many years. Whether through the Ronald McDonald House, Winnipeg Kinsmen or the St Boniface Hospital Foundation, Natasha Shah (wife) and I are passionate about helping raise funds for causes near and dear to our hearts.”
He added that the award recognizes “our passion” for people and their shared commitment to making “our community” better each day.
Hiren and his wife, Natasha, are active supporters of numerous initiatives. He serves on the Ronald McDonald House’s golf tournament board, helping plan and execute its annual fundraiser, and has supported the Champions for Families program. Since joining the Winnipeg Kinsmen in 2018, he has helped direct support to non-profits such as Agape Table Soup Kitchen and Rainbow Resource Centre.
As vice-president of service with Winnipeg Kinsmen, he has also assisted organizations including Special Olympics, Winnipeg Harvest, Toba Centre, and the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre. Colleagues describe him as a volunteer who leads with humility, respect, and dignity, leaving a lasting impression and encouraging others to embrace community service.
With nearly 30 years of professional dedication and a longstanding record of volunteer leadership, Hiren Shah continues to exemplify the values of service and community upliftment in Winnipeg.
