Maple trees

They say: “good things come in threes”. And long-time north Winnipeg resident and community leader Amrit Parbhakar has great reason to celebrate three significant achievements.

First, on October 21, Parbhakar received the City of Winnipeg’s 150th Anniversary Memorial Award and Medal from area City Councilor Devi Sharma (Old Kildonan).

The ceremony took place at Amber Trails Park, where a tree was planted in Parbhakar’s honor. Seven other outstanding community leaders/volunteers also received awards at the event: Kamta Roy Singh, Gary Kowalski, Hunter Scott, Lahora Brar, Leila Castro, Ramona Gallos and Sheilah Lee Restall.

Second, Parbhakar recently reached the milestone of 50 years of residency in Winnipeg. He is one of the pioneers of the city’s Indian community.

Finally, on October 23, Parbhakar turned 80. Family, friends and community members honored the respected leader by hosting a fun birthday party at the Maples Community Center.

Parbhakar’s story reflects resilience and dedication. In 1974, he and his wife Raj made the courageous decision to leave India and settle in Winnipeg with their two young children. Several years later, they welcomed their third child, making Winnipeg their new family home.

The transition to a new life in Canada was not without its challenges, but Parbhakar committed to building a foundation and quickly found his professional path, working as an engineer with Manitoba Telephone System for over 25 years.

Parbhakar instilled in his children the values ​​of education, hard work and community service; a legacy he lives by every day. His dedication to helping others became a guiding force in his life. Even after his retirement, he continued to consult as an engineer and remained deeply involved in the community. As a passionate volunteer, he supported the Manitoba Hindu Society, led the Manitoba Hindu Elders Group as president, and dedicated nearly two decades to the Maples Community Center as a board member and president of the seniors committee.

Parbhakar also regularly volunteers at various local events and community gatherings. His life is a true testament to the power of giving back.

Despite the loss of vision, Parbhakar’s spirit remains undeterred. Surrounded by his family and friends, he accepts his retirement, enjoys card games and tea breaks with the seniors at the Maples Community Center and continues to acquire new skills.

Derek Dabee
The Maples Community Correspondent

Derek Dabee is a community correspondent for The Maples.

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