It is a great privilege to have traveled to every province and territory in this great nation of ours. As a result of his extensive work in multiple aspects of the Canadian sport system, Ajay Patel is lucky enough to have done just that. 

His impact on sport in Canada, including his support of the Canada Games in his home province of British Columbia, has led to his induction into our Hall of Honour in the Builder category. 

“Being inducted into the Canada Games Hall of Honour is a meaningful recognition of the shared journey I have had with so many people in the Canada Games Movement over the years,” Patel said. “The Canada Games represent the spirit of collaboration, perseverance, and the transformative power of sport in shaping lives and communities across the country.”

Born in Fiji, Patel moved to Canada at a young age, where his altruistic nature and passion for sport blossomed. In 2001 Patel joined Team BC’s Mission Staff at the London 2001 Canada Games. This would lead to a 12-year commitment to his province’s personnel, serving as Assistant Chef de Mission at the Bathurst-Campbellton 2003 Canada Games, and then as Chef de Mission for the four subsequent Games from 2005 through 2011. 

One of the highlights of Patel’s tenure as Chef de Mission came at his last Games. During the Halifax 2011 Canada Games, Team BC athletes collected five boxes of mittens and donated them to the Dartmouth East Boys and Girls Club to local children in need. This initiative was aimed at creating a legacy at the Games beyond what played out within the sport event.
“What makes the Canada Games truly exceptional is their role in uniting people from every corner of our diverse country,” Patel said. “It’s a place where the cultural and geographic richness of Canada is celebrated, from coast to coast to coast. The Games serve as a microcosm of our nation, showcasing the distinctiveness of our communities while fostering a shared sense of national identity.”

Having served as Chair of the National Teams Program Sub-Committee at Special Olympics Canada, he notes what he appreciates most about the Canada Games. 

“One of the aspects I love most about the Canada Games is the inclusion of Para Sports and Special Olympics athletes into the same competitive space,” Patel said. “It’s truly unique in the sport community and embodies the inclusivity and diversity that make the Games so exceptional. Seeing athletes of all abilities compete side by side and share in the same experiences is a powerful reminder of the role sport can play in building a more inclusive society.”

Considered a pillar of the sports community in British Columbia, Patel has held several leadership positions, including CEO of Gymnastics BC, Executive Director of Badminton BC, as well as his current post as Vice Chair & Director at Large with Sport BC. 

Beyond developing strength in athletic performance, Patel believes excelling in education is just as important. He was named President & CEO of Vancouver Community College in 2020, British Columbia's oldest public post secondary institution. Similar to his passion for helping athletes achieve prosperity in sport, Patel is dedicated to assisting students pursue the best education. His achievements have led Patel to a #8 ranking on Vancouver Magazine’s Power 50 List for 2025.

While his commitment to sports and educational excellence is evident, Patel is aware that it takes a village to ensure the Canada Games not only bring out the best in athletes, but showcases the richness and diversity of Canada as a whole.

“This recognition is a tribute to the countless individuals who have been part of this journey and to the enduring impact that the Canada Games have on communities across Canada,” Patel said. “It’s also a celebration of the incredible spirit of competition that defines the pursuit of the Canada Games flag—a symbol of excellence and achievement that drives athletes, teams, and mission staff alike to always strive for their very best.”