From Janitor to Mayor: Former Anaheim Leader Reflects on His Life, Career, and Commitment to Community
Anaheim, CA, 23rd May 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, In a rare and candid interview, Harry Sidhu, the former Mayor of Anaheim, opens up about his remarkable journey from immigrant janitor to successful engineer, entrepreneur, and public servant. The exclusive online feature, titled “Coffee with Harry Sidhu: How a Janitor Became Mayor,” explores the humble beginnings, career milestones, and personal values that shaped one of Anaheim’s most recognizable civic leaders.
Sidhu arrived in the United States from India in 1974 with only six dollars to his name and a strong desire to build a better life. In the interview, he reflects on his early struggles in Philadelphia, juggling night shifts as a janitor while attending community college by day. His persistence led to a mechanical engineering degree from Drexel University and a career with major corporations including Amtrak, Rockwell International, and General Dynamics.
After shifting gears into business, Sidhu and his wife Gin built a restaurant portfolio that grew to 28 locations across Southern California. But it was his desire to serve that brought him into the political spotlight. After moving to Anaheim Hills in 1994, Sidhu joined local government efforts and was elected to the Anaheim City Council in 2004. In 2018, he was elected Mayor.
“Leadership isn’t about easy decisions—it’s about doing what’s right,” Sidhu says in the interview, recalling the tough calls made during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his guidance, Anaheim distributed more than $70 million in aid, kept city workers employed, and launched vital health and small business programs.
The interview highlights key moments in his public service career, including efforts to support Spanish-speaking business owners, create homeless outreach programs, and promote international cooperation.
“I think about that janitor job a lot,” Sidhu says. “I think about how far I’ve come. I still believe in working hard, helping others, and staying humble.”
The feature offers a unique look into the life of a man who overcame language barriers, financial hardship, and political challenges to leave a lasting impact on his community.
About Harry
Harry Sidhu is a retired public servant, engineer, and entrepreneur. He served two terms on the Anaheim City Council and was elected Mayor in 2018. He is known for his work on homelessness, small business support, and public health initiatives. In retirement, he remains an advocate for opportunity, resilience, and service.
To read the full interview, click here.
