From Surat to Scarborough: A Journey of Service, Leadership, and Community
Zakir Patel’s story is one of perseverance, hard work, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.
Born and raised in the vibrant diamond city of Surat, India, Zakir completed his early education and attended S.P.B. English Medium College of Commerce, where he was pursuing a Bachelor of Business degree. Before completing his studies, his family’s future took an unexpected turn when they received approval to immigrate to Canada.
In January 1995, Zakir arrived in Hamilton, Ontario, with a lifelong dream of becoming a lawyer. Like many newcomers, however, he quickly learned that building a new life required sacrifice, determination, and resilience. Within a month of arriving in Canada, his family relocated to Scarborough, settling near Midland and Lawrence—a community that would become his home for the next three decades.
Building a New Life in Canada
Zakir’s first job in Canada was as a grocery clerk. Seeking better opportunities, he later worked as a machine operator in a factory located in the Malvern neighbourhood while continuing his passion for cricket.
He also took on a second job delivering newspapers throughout Scarborough, serving communities including Seven Oaks, Highland Creek, Rouge Valley, Malvern, West Hill, Centennial, West Rouge, Guildwood, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
These experiences gave him a deep understanding of Scarborough and the people who call it home.
Entrepreneurship and Education
In 1999, Zakir purchased his first business in Canada—a local grocery store.
Becoming a small business owner provided firsthand experience with the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, workers, and families striving to succeed.
Despite the demands of business ownership, Zakir remained committed to education and enrolled at Centennial College’s Progress Campus, where he pursued a Diploma in Business Administration.
A Commitment to Community
Zakir’s political journey began in 2003 when he volunteered on the campaign of former MPP Mary Anne Chambers in Scarborough–Guildwood.
Between 2003 and 2018, he volunteered on approximately nineteen political campaigns at the federal, provincial, municipal, and school board levels while also serving in leadership roles within numerous community and nonprofit organizations.
He served as a secretary, volunteer coordinator, fundraiser, community organizer, and advocate for countless local initiatives.
Election to Public Office
In 2018, after years of community service and advocacy, Zakir sought public office to ensure Scarborough received the attention and investment it deserved.
With the support of residents, volunteers, friends, family, and community organizations, Zakir was elected as a Toronto District School Board Trustee in 2018.
Leadership at the Toronto District School Board
During his tenure from 2018 to 2025, Zakir participated in more than 200 student disciplinary and expulsion hearings while helping strengthen educational governance and accountability.
Leadership roles included:
• Vice-Chair and Chair of the Finance, Budget and Enrolment Committee
• Chair of the Director’s Performance Appraisal Committee
• Member of the Director Search Committee
• Member of the Community Use of Schools Committee
• Member of the Special Education Advisory Committee
• Member of the Toronto Student Transportation Group
• Director, Toronto Lands Corporation
• Director, Ontario Public School Boards’ Association (OPSBA)
His colleagues later elected him to serve as Vice-Chair of the Toronto District School Board.
Community Leadership and Volunteerism
A lifelong cricket enthusiast, Zakir continues to support sports and community development throughout Ontario.
Current leadership roles include:
• Secretary, Scarborough Cricket Association
• Director-at-Large, Ontario Cricket Association
• Member of various advisory committees supporting Over-40, Over-50, and Over-60 cricket programs
He also helped raise more than $1 million through the Muslim Consultative Group in support of Scarborough Health Network.
Service During the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Zakir worked alongside volunteers, healthcare professionals, faith leaders, and community organizations.
Community efforts included:
• Supporting vaccination clinics across Scarborough
• Coordinating approximately 600 meals daily for vulnerable residents
• Assisting seniors and families with essential services
• Organizing rallies honouring frontline healthcare workers
• Supporting healthcare fundraising initiatives
Supporting Local Businesses
As a small business owner himself, Zakir understands the challenges faced by entrepreneurs.
He currently serves as Chair of the Cedarbrae Markham Lawrence Village Business Improvement Area (BIA), working with business owners and community partners to strengthen local economic development and support local jobs.
Awards and Recognition
Zakir’s dedication to community service has been recognized through numerous awards, including:
• RE/MAX Hall of Fame Award
• Multiple RE/MAX Sales Achievement Awards
• Urban Hero Award (Metroland Media)
• Community Care Award
• Remarkable Fathers Award
• Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Pin
Looking Forward
Today, as a proud resident of West Hill, Zakir continues to advocate for stronger and safer neighbourhoods, better public services, increased opportunities for youth, support for local businesses, and greater investment in Scarborough.
For Zakir, public service is not simply a role—it is a lifelong commitment to giving back to the community that welcomed him, supported him, and helped him build his Canadian dream.