About Dr. Vibha Dineshkumar Shah
A remarkable woman whose life exemplified the pursuit of knowledge, resilience, and quiet strength
Her Extraordinary Journey
Vibha was born to an affluent family in the 1950s in Nairobi, Kenya. Despite early challenges when her father Chunilal switched jobs due to prevailing economic conditions, her mother Radiatben ensured that Vibha and her three siblings had the best access to education the family could afford.
It was no wonder that Vibha was an excellent student at school, often topping the class in multiple subjects. Her academic exploits were not due to strict parenting – they were born out of a genuine desire to satiate her curiosity for knowledge.
She excelled at the University of Wales Institute of Science and Technology (later renamed as Cardiff University), while adjusting to live independently. Her non-academic interests evolved as her education progressed, leading her to become a member of the Indian Association and Debating Society.
Professional Excellence
After completing her graduation, Vibha worked at the Hammersmith Hospital and Boots The Chemist in London. She eventually completed her registration with the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, attaining the license to practise within the boundaries of Britain.
Her desire to learn was not restricted to books alone. Around 1980, she decided to study accounting, an entirely different area from her previous endeavours. Between 1980 and 1990, she managed the books of accounts of Motor Fuels Ltd while pursuing her ACCA qualification.
In 1990, Vibha earned the title of 'Doctor' – a recognition conferred on her by the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya. In 1999, she was awarded the ACCA certificate, and by 2004, she achieved the status of Fellow of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA).
A Life of Learning
But Vibha was not done yet! In 2006, she acquired her final major qualification, an MBA from the Heriot-Watt University. Her commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) never faltered throughout her career.
We had a passion for travelling. With the exception of South America and Antarctica, we travelled every continent. While traveling, Vibha would always carry a book in hand, engrossed in reading about the places we were about to visit. Thus, traveling for her was as much an activity of learning as enjoyment.
Quick Facts
Her Philosophy
"Don't simply dream; discover ways to stay your goals."
In Gujarati wisdom:
સપનાઓ દેખાવા નહીં, એને પૂરા કરવા જીવવું શીખો.
Sapanā'ō dēkhāvā nahīṁ, ēnē pūrā karavā jīvavuṁ śīkhō
About the Author
Dineshkumar Devchand Pethraj Shah (Karania) was Vibha's devoted husband for 42 years. This biography is his loving tribute to her memory and an inspiration for future generations.
BA (Combined Honours) Economics / Statistics
What's Inside
A comprehensive look at an extraordinary life
Main Chapters
Chapter 1: The Spark of Learning
Early life and education in Nairobi
Chapter 2: Becoming Vibha
University years in Cardiff
Chapter 3: Love, Letters, and a New Beginning
Marriage and new life chapter
Chapter 4: Grit and Grace in Foreign Lands
Professional career and challenges
Special Features
Chapter 5: Through the Lens of Travel
Lessons from around the world
Chapter 7: Testimonials
Memories from family and friends
Appendix
Origins of Halari Visa Oshwal Community