Born in Burnley in 1970, Shahbaz Hussain Shah is the son of hardworking migrants Fida Hussain Shah and Saeeda Sughra Shah who made their home in Nelson. His father arrived alone in the 1960s and worked for over 20 years as a weaver at Smith & Nephews in Brierfield. His mother joined the family in 1969, working briefly at Pioneer Weston in Barrowford before dedicating her time to raising Shahbaz and his brother. Growing up in a close-knit household, Shahbaz reflects on a childhood rooted in stability, warmth, and opportunity.

Educated at Bradley Nursery, Walverden Junior School, and Walton High School, Shahbaz enjoyed school life despite being in a clear minority. He remembers both students and teachers as kind and welcoming. While many stories from this era speak of challenges around integration or discrimination, Shahbaz recalls feeling that everyone had a fair shot at success – a belief that would shape his approach to life and work.

Shahbaz went on to build a dynamic and diverse career, first in engineering and later in public service. He spent a decade in the automotive industry, rising through the ranks to become one of the first Asian Plant Quality Managers in the North West. He later joined Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, where he has served with distinction. In 2009, he was commended for bravery for rescuing a family from a severe house fire in Blackburn. In 2024, he was named in HRH King Charles’ Birthday Honours List, awarded an MBE for services to the fire sector – a moment of immense pride for him and his family.

His message to future generations is one of gratitude and responsibility:

“Build on the sacrifices made by your parents; live up to those sacrifices. You stand on the shoulders of giants. This wonderful country that is the United Kingdom gives you every chance to succeed. Work hard and you will be successful, both personally and professionally.”