Harsh and Ami Shah

When Harsh Shah first arrived in Fort McMurray 16 years ago, it was with the same mix of ambition and humility that continues to define his work today. Originally from Vadodara, India, he came seeking opportunity and a place to put down roots—and he found both. “I’ve always believed that success isn’t just what you accomplish for yourself, but what you give back to the people around you,” he says. That philosophy has shaped not only his professional career as an Improvement Leader at Suncor Energy Inc., but also his deep involvement in community initiatives across Fort McMurray.

A mechanical engineer by training, Harsh thrives on challenges. “The most rewarding part of my career is optimizing processes and equipment in ways that create real, tangible impact: cost savings, sustainability, efficiency,” he explains. “But equally important is mentoring and learning from the people I work with. There’s a satisfaction in seeing others grow alongside you.” His approach to leadership mirrors his approach to community: thoughtful, hands-on, and focused on empowering others.

Ami Shah, his wife of many years, echoes that dedication, though her path has taken her through health care and the arts. A physiotherapist by training, Ami has spent the past 13 years in the region, currently serving as Vaccine Controller with Alberta Health Services. “Meeting new people and helping them feel cared for…that’s what drives me,” she says. Her professional work reflects the same core values that guide her volunteer efforts, from teaching Bollywood and cultural dance to serving on parent councils at local schools. “For me, community is about ensuring that no one feels left behind, whether that’s a patient in public health or a child discovering dance for the first time.”

The Shahs’ commitment to Fort McMurray goes far beyond their day jobs. Harsh has held executive positions with Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and APEGA’s Fort McMurray branch, and chairs the Workplace Inclusion Network at Syncrude. Ami, meanwhile, has leveraged her passion for arts and culture to create opportunities for youth to explore dance, ensuring that children in the region have the chance to learn, grow, and express themselves creatively. Together, they see their volunteer work as a natural extension of the values that brought them to Fort McMurray in the first place.

For Harsh, the motivation is rooted in gratitude. “As an immigrant, I was welcomed into a community that supported me and my family. I wouldn’t be where I am without that support, and giving back has always felt like the right thing to do.” Ami agrees, adding that much of their work is inspired by family: “We want our kids, Sniti and Kreev, to see what community really means. To learn that helping others isn’t an obligation…it’s a joy.”

The Shahs’ partnership, both at home and in community endeavours, has become a model of complementary strengths. Harsh describes their dynamic as “a perfect balance; he’s organized, analytical, and solution-focused, and I bring creativity and expression into the mix,” Ami says with a smile. Whether they’re mentoring young engineers, teaching dance classes, or simply supporting school events, their efforts intersect in ways that amplify the impact of each initiative.

Their work in the arts and education is particularly meaningful to Ami. She recalls the joy of seeing children light up in her Bollywood classes, learning to move in sync with the rhythm while building confidence and teamwork skills. “It’s not just about dance. It’s about giving kids a space where they feel seen, where their individuality is celebrated, and where they know someone believes in them.” Harsh nods in agreement, noting that these small investments in youth development create long-lasting ripples. “When you mentor, volunteer, or just take the time to connect, you’re building the next generation of leaders, problem-solvers, and community members.”

Their shared philosophy extends to larger challenges facing the region. Both cite attraction and retention of people as a critical concern. Harsh explains, “Fort McMurray is blessed with talent, energy, and young families, but we need to create an environment where people want to stay long-term.” Ami adds that community well-being also depends on access to arts, culture, and recreation. “When children and youth have opportunities to explore and express themselves, it strengthens mental health, connection, and resilience for the entire community.”

It’s this holistic view that drives their ongoing involvement in Fort McMurray. Harsh often mentors young engineers on-site, helping them develop not only technical skills but also professional confidence and integrity. Ami focuses on ensuring that every child in her programs has the opportunity to participate and shine. Together, they see themselves as contributors to a thriving, interconnected community, each role reinforcing the other.

Yet beyond the strategic and organized aspects of community engagement, there is also joy…something the Shahs never lose sight of. They share stories of impromptu dance sessions at community events, children performing alongside them, and small, meaningful connections formed over volunteer efforts. “We try to keep it fun,” Harsh says. “The most important thing is to create spaces where people feel happy, supported, and connected. That’s when real change happens.”

Ami reflects on the lessons their children are learning through these experiences. “Sniti and Kreev see us working with others, helping, and showing care. That’s more powerful than anything we could say; it’s about modelling values in real life.” Harsh adds that these lessons extend to his professional environment as well. “Whether at work or in community initiatives, mentorship, patience, and integrity are key. People notice, and it inspires them to give back too.”

As the couple looks to the future, their goals are both aspirational and grounded. Professionally, Harsh wants to continue leading initiatives that optimize processes and mentor young engineers, while Ami aims to expand her reach in public health and community arts programs. Together, they envision a Fort McMurray where children, youth, and adults alike feel supported, creative, and engaged. “It’s about leaving a legacy,” Harsh says. “Not just in our careers, but in the way the community grows, evolves, and flourishes.”

Their story is also one of gratitude. Both Harsh and Ami credit their families, both immediate and extended, for enabling them to pursue these paths. From the support of parents in daily life to the encouragement of spouses in challenging endeavours, they acknowledge that community starts at home. “We’re lucky to have each other,” Ami says. “And that foundation allows us to give our best to the wider community.”

In many ways, the Shahs embody the spirit of Fort McMurray itself: resilient, connected, and forward-thinking. They understand the importance of supporting one another, of creating opportunities where none may exist, and of investing in the future through mentorship, arts, and community engagement. Their work demonstrates that leadership isn’t confined to boardrooms or job titles; it lives in classrooms, on dance floors, at charity events, and in the small but impactful moments where care, guidance, and encouragement intersect.

Whether it’s mentoring a young engineer, teaching a dance routine, overseeing a community project, or simply offering guidance to a neighbour, Harsh and Ami Shah continue to exemplify what it means to be invested, present, and proactive. Their legacy is still unfolding, but its foundations are clear: a commitment to nurturing talent, supporting families, and building a Fort McMurray where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

“The best part about our community,” Ami reflects, “is that there’s always a chance to make a difference, no matter how big or small. We want to show that everyone can contribute, and when we all do, it becomes something incredible.” Harsh nods in agreement: “I feel proud every day to be part of a community that gives, supports, and grows together. Our role is just to keep contributing, and to make sure others see the value in doing the same.”

For the Shahs, that contribution is both a personal mission and a shared family ethos. It’s about showing up, mentoring, teaching, and caring. And in doing so, they are leaving an indelible mark on the Fort McMurray region; one built on connection, creativity, and unwavering dedication.