Surrey, B.C. – More than 300 residents, families, community leaders and neighbours gathered at Hawthorne Park in Surrey City Centre on Saturday, August 16, for MLA Amna Shah’s annual community BBQ.
The afternoon featured burgers and hot dogs on the grill, music, and activities for children. Face painting, balloon artists and henna kept kids entertained while adults connected with neighbours and their local MLA in a relaxed outdoor setting.
“It was a chance for people to come together, enjoy the summer weather and share what’s on their minds,” one attendee noted while chatting near the picnic tables.
Healthcare and Education Milestones
The event also served as a moment to mark recent progress in the riding. Residents celebrated the opening of the new SFU Medical School in Surrey City Centre, which brings medical education and training directly into the community.
The medical school is part of a broader expansion of Surrey’s healthcare and education sector. Organizers and community leaders described it as an important step in establishing the city as a growing centre for health education, innovation and care in British Columbia.
Improvements at Surrey Memorial Hospital were also highlighted, including the opening of a new renal facility. The expanded kidney-care services are expected to bring specialized treatment closer to home for local families and strengthen the region’s health-care infrastructure.
Listening to Residents
While the BBQ offered an opportunity to celebrate these developments, it was equally focused on listening. Throughout the afternoon, MLA Shah and local community leaders spoke with residents about the issues that matter most to them.
Conversations covered health care, education, housing, transportation, community services and the continued growth of Surrey City Centre. The informal park setting allowed people to raise concerns and share ideas in a more personal way than a formal meeting.
“Events like this help keep the connection open,” a community leader said. “People can talk about what’s working and what still needs attention.”
Family Fun and Community Spirit
For many families, the afternoon was simply about enjoying time together. Children lined up for colourful face painting, played with balloon creations and received henna designs. Parents and grandparents sat at picnic tables, shared meals and caught up with neighbours.
The gathering underscored the diverse and growing character of Surrey City Centre, where people from different backgrounds come together to celebrate and connect. With more than 300 people in attendance, the event reflected strong local engagement and enthusiasm.
Looking Ahead for Surrey City Centre
MLA Amna Shah has made the annual community BBQ a regular opportunity to celebrate the people of her riding while maintaining ongoing contact with the community she represents.
As Surrey City Centre continues to expand, with new schools, health-care facilities and major investments taking shape, events like the Hawthorne Park BBQ serve as a reminder that the people who live here remain at the centre of the story.
There was plenty to celebrate on Saturday — and more to look forward to as the community grows and thrives.
Quick Facts
• Event: MLA Amna Shah’s annual Surrey City Centre community BBQ
• Date & Location: Saturday, August 16, 2026 – Hawthorne Park, Surrey City Centre
• Attendance: More than 300 residents, families and community leaders
• Highlights: Food, children’s activities (face painting, balloons, henna), conversations on local issues
• Milestones noted: Opening of SFU Medical School in Surrey City Centre; new renal facility at Surrey Memorial Hospital
Harnaik Singh Rathor is the Founder, Publisher, and Editor-in-Chief of StudioX News Canada, Canada's multilingual digital news network serving diaspora communities across 44 languages. With a background in media production, public relations, and multicultural communications, he founded StudioX Film and TV Corporation to bridge the gap between mainstream Canadian media and the country's diverse immigrant communities. He is a member of the Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ), RTDNA Canada, CPRS Vancouver, Unifor, NEPMCC, and the Canada Freelance Union. Based in Surrey, British Columbia. | LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harnaiksinghrathor/ | Muck Rack: https://muckrack.com/harnaiksinghrathor | Email: editor@studioxnews.ca
