Rooted in Faith.
Guided by Compassion.

From East Africa to Ontario

Shane and Kaneez Merali were born in East Africa and later built their lives in Ontario, Canada. The opportunities they found in Canada, together with the values of faith, family, education and community, shaped their outlook on life and their commitment to giving back.

Shane: A Pharmacist Rooted in Community

For many years, Shane served as a pharmacist in Mattawa, Ontario. His role went far beyond dispensing prescriptions. In a small community, he came to know many people personally, listened to their concerns, supported families through difficult moments and tried to improve each person’s situation with kindness, respect and practical help.

His experience in Mattawa reinforced a lasting belief: meaningful service begins with personal relationships and a sincere desire to help.

Kaneez: Family, Business and Community Leadership

Kaneez built a varied and accomplished life as a mother, bookkeeper and business owner. For more than twenty years, she helped manage and operate successful family businesses while raising three children and supporting the many responsibilities of family and community life.

She later pursued a career as a real estate agent, continuing her work of helping people make important decisions and build secure futures. Kaneez has also served on the boards of nonprofit organizations and volunteered with hospitals, schools, mosques and other community initiatives.

Building the North Bay Mosque

Shane and Kaneez helped found the first mosque in North Bay. Making the project a reality required years of cooperation and perseverance. They worked with the City, architects, banks, neighbours, politicians and leaders from a variety of religious faiths.

The process was not only about constructing a place of worship. It was also about building understanding, earning trust and creating a lasting institution that could serve the wider community. They continue to play an active role in the mosque’s management and stewardship.

Family Values and Future Generations

Shane and Kaneez have sought to instill in their children strong character, moral values, respect for others, a commitment to education and a responsibility to help those in need.

The Shane & Kaneez Merali Family Foundation was created to carry those values forward through multigenerational philanthropy. The hope is that children, grandchildren and future generations will continue to give thoughtfully, live respectfully and use their opportunities to create opportunities for others.

Our Community Giving

The Foundation supports causes that strengthen life in Canada, including the local food bank, hospice care, the local hospital, education, faith communities and other charitable organizations that serve people with dignity and compassion.

Our Guiding Belief

The greatest investment is not in possessions, but in people.