Paresh Shah

Paresh’s journey reflects dedication, humility, and lifelong service to our Jain community. Originally from Mumbai, Paresh immigrated to the United States in 1988 to pursue graduate studies and has always understood the importance of hard work. Upon moving to the DMV in 1998, he became a member of the Jain Society of Metropolitan Washington (JSMW) and has served our community for almost three decades through leadership, philanthropy, and hands-on volunteerism.

Since 2005, he has served in several positions on the JSMW Executive Committee, including Education Coordinator, Vice President, President, and Chair of the Past Presidents Council.

As Education Coordinator, Paresh worked tirelessly for eight years to nurture the next generation of Jain leaders. Under his guidance, Pathshala enrollment more than doubled—from approximately 50 students to 110—and today continues to grow at 175+.

As President, Paresh was instrumental in ensuring progress towards the financing and construction of our new temple. Under his leadership, fundraising events for the new temple were executed including the unforgettable Jains Around the World Mahavir Janma Kalyank program, the Bhoomi Poojan ceremony, and the Dreams to Reality Gala. Among his hallmark achievements is bringing the 2014 Young Jains of America (YJA) Convention to the Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area, which remains one of the community’s most celebrated efforts in engaging youth leadership.

His charitable work extends beyond the Jain community, including service at the Montgomery County Animal Shelter, Volunteer Fairfax, and D.C. Central Kitchen.

Paresh and his family—his wife, Shilpa and daughters, Kayuri & Kanvi—are wholeheartedly dedicated to fulfilling the needs of our community, while embodying the values of compassion, responsibility, and unity.