Vishal Patel's journey took a significant turn when he transitioned from his role as a volunteer at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in London to embarking on a career in the investment banking sector during the early 2000s. Fast forward to the present, Patel found himself once again immersed in volunteer work, this time at the newly inaugurated Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
The Abu Dhabi temple, spanning across a vast 27-acre expanse, stands as a monumental achievement as the first Hindu temple in the region, its inauguration graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 14.
Vishal Patel, now 43 years old, has been an integral part of the BAPS community since relocating from the UK to the UAE. His involvement ranges from hands-on contributions to the temple's construction to facilitating guest services during its grand inauguration ceremony. Currently assuming the role of chief communication officer, Patel oversees various tasks, including media interactions and strategic communication initiatives.
Originally from a Gujarati background, Patel's upbringing in London paved the way for his journey. Despite holding significant positions at prominent financial institutions, including investment banks and hedge funds, Patel's relocation to the UAE in 2016 marked a pivotal moment in his life.
Reflecting on his transition, Patel emphasized the profound impact of his role within the BAPS community in Abu Dhabi, underscoring the significance of engaging in endeavors that serve the greater good. His decision to transition from a lucrative career to full-time volunteering stemmed from a deep-rooted spiritual calling nurtured since childhood at the London BAPS Mandir.
Patel's involvement in the temple's construction, from the initial stages of erecting protective barriers to later assisting in serving meals to guests, underscores his dedication to the cause. Expressing a sentiment shared by many within the community, Patel remarked on the willingness of individuals to forgo their careers in favor of serving the Sanstha.
Recalling the serendipitous encounter that set him on the path of investment banking, Patel reminisced about his days volunteering at the BAPS Mandir in London. It was there that he crossed paths with a senior director at Merrill Lynch, whose guidance and mentorship steered Patel toward a career in finance. Inspired by this experience, Patel and fellow volunteers organized career fairs at the temple to extend similar opportunities to students and job seekers.
With a deep sense of gratitude for the support and guidance received from the BAPS community, Patel expressed confidence in the Abu Dhabi Mandir's ability to serve as a beacon of support for the local community, mirroring the invaluable foundation provided by its predecessor in London.
