Bariz Shah

An engineer, father and Muslim community leader who is passionate about second chances and servant leadership.

Bariz arrived in New Zealand as a refugee in 2001 after his family fled war-torn Afghanistan. He attended Festival for the Future in 2017, and attributes the experience as a key stepping stone in his journey connecting with a community of people driven towards creating positive impact.

Bariz went on to complete an engineering degree from the University of Canterbury, and became the President of the University of Canterbury Muslim Students Association (UCMUSA).

After the March 2019 attacks in Christchurch, Bariz and his wife Saba fundraised $20,000 and travelled to Afghanistan to support 51 micro businesses in Kabul and Jalalabad as a tribute to those who died. He was awarded the Christchurch Civic Award for his efforts.

Bariz is now a qualified engineer, and father to 2-year-old Zawrez (“The giver of light”). He is an active Muslim community leader, and is passionate about second chances and servant leadership.