Shawn Heydari

Communications and Programs Coordinator

Richmond Hill is Shawn’s home, and he has worked at over a dozen restaurants across York Region and Toronto before starting his work at York Region Food Network. He studied Philosophy at York University, followed by Community Work at George Brown College. To Shawn, food is not only about sustenance, but also about connection: connection to people, cultures, and time. 

As the Communications and Programs Coordinator at York Region Food Network (YRFN), Shawn is responsible for managing YRFN’s social media and email newsletters, as well as supporting grant writing, program design, implementation, facilitation, tracking, and evaluation. Shawn has designed and delivered a variety of programs, including free drop-in community meal programs, culinary classes, and food rescue initiatives. 

Outside of work, Shawn enjoys music, film, food, cottage life, and spending time in nature. On his days off, he enjoys relaxing with family and friends and sharing home-cooked meals with loved ones. His other interests include archery, poker, barbecuing, attending concerts, and, above all, enjoying good times with good people.