DR. GURCHARANJIT SINGH ATTARIWALA

Dr. Gurcharanjit Singh Attariwala (MBBS, FACS, FRCS, DAB Ophthalmology), born in Patna, Bihar in 1932, arrived in Ottawa in 1957 to pursue a residency in ophthalmology. Despite initial skepticism due to his turban, his exemplary skills and compassionate care earned him considerable respect. After completing internships at Jewish General Hospital and the American Armed Forces Hospital, he moved to Calgary in 1965, where he led the ophthalmology department at Rockyview Hospital for two decades. Dr. Attariwala played a pivotal role with Operation Eyesight Universal, overseeing global eye camps and the donation of surgical instruments. He led numerous fundraising initiatives for earthquake relief, Al-Shifa Hospital in Islamabad, and community organizations such as The Mustard Seed and For the Love of Children. In Calgary’s Sikh community, Dr. Attariwala was instrumental in establishing the city’s first gurdwara, serving as the Sikh Society of Calgary’s inaugural president in 1979 and later as trustee. He organized sponsorships for 100 orphans post-1984 Delhi massacre and spearheaded the restoration of the Guru Nanak Shrine in Kartarpur, Pakistan. Additionally, he initiated funding for the Guru Nanak Healing Garden at Edmonton’s Cardiac Centre. As a founding member of the Sikh Business and Professional Association and director for the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society, his contributions significantly advanced discussions on Canadian multiculturalism.

GURDEV ATTARIWALA

Gurdev Attariwala (née Dley) is a distinguished pioneer in Canada’s South Asian community. Born in North Vancouver in 1931, she was among the first generation of South Asian children born in Canada. She began Sikh scriptural reading at age five and completed a Bhog ceremony by 11. Gurdev left home to study microbiology at Victoria College and UBC, where she quickly rose to head UBC’s research labs. Her innovative work at federal labs in Ottawa garnered the attention of then Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson. Upon moving to Calgary in 1965, Gurdev shifted her focus to community service. She volunteered in hospitals and senior homes, tutored students, and taught low-income families about healthy, budget-friendly cooking. For over 20 years, she taught Punjabi (Gurmukhi) at the gurdwara and worked with Interfaith Calgary. As Calgary’s South Asian community grew, she played a critical role in helping local authorities understand and navigate cultural differences. From the mid-1980s, Gurdev served two terms on the University of Calgary Senate, significantly contributing to the overhaul of the Engineering Department to enhance student success. Her extensive and impactful work has left a lasting legacy in both the academic and local communities.

CANADIAN INSPIRATION

DR. RAJ BHARDWAJ

Dr. Bhardwaj is a family physician of 25 years experience, and a downtown Calgary Urgent Care doctor. He has been working at the inner-city Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre since 2008. Since 2013, Dr. Bhardwaj has had a weekly health and medicine program on CBC Radio 1 which airs in Alberta, five other provinces and two territories. He is a Medical Columnist, radio personality, a Clinical Assistant Professor University of Calgary medical school. He is well known as a “science communicator” and medical influencer with a loyal following on social media. During the pandemic, Dr. Bhardwaj was a steady voice, advising the public and many organizations on their COVID-19 strategies. Dr. Bhardwaj started in the realm of “science communication” early when he worked at the Edmonton Space & Science Centre in the 1990s. He has used his commonsense approach to expanding our collective health literacy — to guide us in learning about and improving our own health. Dr. Bhardwaj continues to educate and inform us through his radio show and other public speaking, such as science shows at Beakerhead, a dynamic festival smash-up of math, arts, science, and engineering. His active science and health literacy work was one reason that he was awarded the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal by the Province of Alberta in 2022.

CANADIAN ICON

SANGITA PATEL

Sangita Patel is an award-winning media personality, breaking barriers in the media and beauty industries. She was chosen as Canada’s Covergirl Ambassador for three years from 2019, and that same year she was named one of HELLO! Canada magazine’s “50 Most Beautiful People”. Sangita was also a co-host of ET Canada and host of ET Canada Weekend, when she interviewed many of the biggest stars from around the globe, and received a Canadian Screen Award (CSA) for Best Host of a Web Program or Series as well as a CSA for Best Entertainment News Program in 2022. She hosted HGTV Canada’s hit reality show Home to Win for four seasons, receiving a CSA nomination for Best Host in the lifestyle category and the CSA’s Audience Choice Award. In 2024 she hosted the American network, TLC’s lifestyle show, Love and Translation. Given her love of fitness and health, Sangita recently created her #FitnessTuesday social media series to help motivate her followers. Sangita has a passion for giving back to her community, stepping up when it’s needed most, from delivering food to frontline workers during the pandemic to hosting national fundraisers for charitable causes. With her husband, two daughters, and dog, Indie, by her side, Sangita aims to live life to the fullest.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

SURINDER KAUR

Surinder is a dedicated leader in promoting multiculturalism and diversity. As Program Coordinator at the Calgary Immigrant Centre in 1982, she collaborated with mainstream agencies to create multicultural programs. Surinder became the founding Program Coordinator and Signatory of the Alberta Network of Immigrant Women, empowering immigrant women. In 1986, she was elected as the first Vice President of the National Organization of Immigrant Women. From 1991 to 2016, she served as a Diversity Advisor with the Calgary Board of Education, helping diversity advisors gain professional status and achieving the approval of Punjabi as an official second language in Alberta.

Since 2017, Surinder has been a master trainer with Alberta Health Services, teaching “Better Choices, Better Health” in both English and Punjabi. Her commitment to reducing barriers to social and medical services is evident in her work as an in-home support worker, translating documents for PCHS Calgary, and supporting the Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter. Surinder remains a dedicated volunteer, teaching English and supporting local organizations.

STILL GOING STRONG

JARNAIL SINGH TAGGAR

Mr. Taggar is a well-respected community leader with a strong background in non-profit work. A former CP Rail machinist, his communication and mediation skills, combined with experiences in both England and Canada, have shaped his leadership. For seven years, he has been President of the Indo-Canadian Association of Immigrant Seniors, and he serves as Vice-President of the Monterey Punjabi Association and a member of the Punjabi Sahit Sabha Society of Calgary, contributing poetry and articles that support Punjabi integration into Canadian society.

He is also active in the Drug Awareness Foundation Calgary, promoting reduced alcohol consumption in the Punjabi community, and during the pandemic, he volunteered for food distribution. In 2023, he was elected First Vice-President of the Calgary chapter of the North Council Canadian Pacific Pensioners Association, representing the association at the 2022 convention in London, Ontario.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN
ARTS & CULTURE

SUSHREE MISHRA

For over three decades, Sushree Mishra has been dedicated to promoting Odissi music and dance. In 2012, she founded the Sushree Academy, where, as Artistic Director, she has provided a platform for aspiring artists to learn and excel in Indian Classical Odissi Dance. Specializing in ‘Mahari Dance’ (Devadasi temple dance) and Hindustani Classical Music, Sushree also holds a Master’s degree in Sanskrit. Her research on “Establishing Odissi Classical Dance in the Canadian Cultural Fabric” has earned her numerous grants.

Sushree actively promotes South Asian arts and culture both in Canada and internationally, organizing and participating in cultural events and festivals, and collaborating with various societies to enhance the appreciation of Indian classical arts. She actively engages in educational initiatives and cultural events that bridge linguistic and cultural divides worldwide. Sushree Mishra has received numerous accolades nationally and internationally. Since 2019, she has been a board member and cultural lead of the Rajasthan Association of North America, Calgary division, and a lead organizer of IndiYeah! Fest, celebrating India’s Independence Day. Her work bridges cultural divides, fostering global appreciation of Indian traditions.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT
IN MEDIA

RISHI NAGAR

Since 2013, Rishi has been a trusted and influential voice in the South Asian community as a radio talk show host, journalist, and news director with RedFM Calgary, inspiring youth to pursue careers in journalism. A former English lecturer and principal with a Master’s degree, Rishi transitioned to journalism in 1999, working in English and Hindi newspapers and as a news analyst on national Indian television. His Calgary talk show, which addresses current affairs and social issues, ranks second in morning talk show listenership, only behind CBC. He also has a strong following in the Greater Toronto Area.

Rishi fearlessly tackles difficult topics, engaging professionals and experts, and has interviewed government officials from Canada and India on critical issues. During COVID-19, his morning show became the most listened-to talk show in Calgary. From 2018 to 2024, he served as a Senator at the University of Calgary and, in 2019, joined the City of Calgary Anti-Racism Action Committee. In 2023, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.

PRABHNOOR GREWAL

Prabhnoor is a rising star in speedskating, not yet 17 years old and already ranked #3 nationally in the Neo-Junior category. She has won two national bronze medals in the 2023-2024 season alone, five national medals since 2021, and in 2022 was selected by the Elite Athlete Pathway at Calgary’s Olympic Oval, one of Canada’s top training centres. She is training to represent Canada internationally.

Prabhnoor made history in 2019 as the first Punjabi athlete to win a medal at the BC Provincial Long Track & Short Track Championships, and she remains the only Punjabi athlete in the Olympic Oval development program. She represented Alberta in the 2023 Canada Winter Games for Women’s Short Track. Praised by coaches for her physical skills and mental resilience, Prabhnoor stands out for her exemplary sportsmanship and team leadership. She is living out her childhood dream of training to compete in the Olympics.

ROBBIE SIHOTA

Robbie, a retired professional basketball player, began his career with high school basketball before joining the University of Calgary Dinos and later signing with Eisbaren Bremerhaven, a professional German team. From 2010 to 2017, he played in various European countries. Although retired from professional play, Robbie remains committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity in sports. Since 2022, he has played with India Rising, a private basketball team competing in The Basketball Tournament (USA), where he was named MVP last season.

In 2022, Robbie co-founded Brown Ballers, a sports media platform dedicated to supporting and encouraging South Asian athletes. As Director of Basketball Operations, he helps emerging athletes navigate both the sport and its culture. Off the court, Robbie is a respected real estate agent in Calgary, and his commitment to opening doors for the South Asian community in global sports is truly commendable.

CALGARY SURGE

In the summer of 2022, Usman Tahir Jutt and Jason Ribeiro, owners of the Calgary Surge, made a bold move by relocating the Guelph Nighthawks of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) to Calgary. Their dynamic leadership – driven by Usman’s philanthropic spirit and commitment to youth empowerment, paired with Jason’s passion for sports, arts, and culture – set the stage for a highly successful inaugural season. In May 2023, the Surge finished first in the Western Conference and advanced to the CEBL’s Championship Weekend Finals. Under their guidance, the Surge also earned the CEBL Digital Excellence Award, bolstered by one of the youngest and most diverse front offices in professional sports.

In its second season, the Surge’s popularity in Calgary soared. Usman and Jason highlighted their South Asian heritage, with performances such as the Nachda Punjab Bhangra Academy halftime show, reflecting the team’s dedication to cultural inclusivity and diverse in-game entertainment. Their efforts off the court have been equally impressive, with a deep commitment to community engagement. Surge players and staff actively participate in hundreds of local events, including attending high school basketball games and running youth camps. They also opened the Century Gardens Sport Court, a public three-on-three style basketball court, which has become a hub for Calgarians of all backgrounds.

Recognizing that 67% of Canadian basketball fans identify as visible minorities, Usman and Jason launched SurgeASSIST to tackle access and equity challenges. Over the past two years, SurgeASSIST has raised over $300,000, enabling more than 3,500 kids and families to attend Surge games for free. Partnering with organizations such as the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society, Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association, and Kids Play Youth Foundation, they also developed multilingual signage, enhancing accessibility for diverse communities. In recognition of their efforts, SurgeASSIST received the Culbert Family Award for Philanthropy from the United Way of Calgary and Area.

Their community-centric vision extends to collaborations with local organizations like the Genesis Centre and Meals on Wheels, solidifying the Surge’s role as Calgary’s “Home Team.” Through their commitment to inclusivity, Usman and Jason have become true leaders and visionaries, fostering connections across Calgary’s diverse cultural landscape.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN STEEM

RAMAN GILL (SAWHNEY)

Raman has been a professional engineer for nearly a decade and currently works as a Project Engineer and Business Development Manager at a Calgary-based oil and gas consulting firm. Beyond her professional role, Raman has made significant contributions to STEEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Environment, and Mathematics). As a Board of Governor at the Calgary Petroleum Club and an Acumen Manager with Young Women in Energy, she advocates for young women pursuing careers in the energy industry, focusing on creating networks and supporting professional development.

In 2018, she established the Apar Initiative to empower young girls to explore STEM careers and enhance diversity in the energy sector. As a board member of STEM Innovation Academy, she provides valuable business insights for academic planning in STEM education. An ambassador for United Way Calgary and Area, Raman has also been recognized as a Top 30 Under 30 by the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation in 2021. She is celebrated for her visionary leadership and ability to inspire and empower the next generation of professionals.

OUTSTANDING
BUSINESS

CAMPFIRE KINSHIP STORYTELLING INC.

GAYATHRI SHUKLA
In 2020, Gayathri transitioned from a successful 20-year career in the energy sector to found Campfire Kinship, a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to fostering inclusive cultures through storytelling. Campfire Kinship provides workshops, training, and consulting services to help organizations navigate equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, enhancing team dynamics. The business amplifies underrepresented voices and builds bridges between communities through its bestselling anthology, Landed, which features stories of 37 immigrant women, as well as its radio-hosted podcast, Hearth 2 Heart, and TV-featured docuseries, unLikely Friends.

Campfire Kinship’s approach has empowered thousands of leaders to engage in candid conversations, breaking down societal stigmas and fostering understanding across differences. The enterprise aims to increase visibility and opportunities for racialized women, and, through a partnership with LotusSTEMM, Gayathri directly supports South Asian women facing employment barriers. Campfire Kinship is creating a ripple effect, transforming traditional approaches and inspiring communities to use inclusion and storytelling as tools for social change.

PROFESSIONAL LEADER

AMBREEN AZIM

In her 13 years of experience in family and child welfare law, Ambreen co-founded her own law firm and established herself as a seasoned trial advocate and expert in alternate dispute resolution. In December 2023, she made history as the youngest and first female Sunni Muslim Justice of the Peace at the Alberta Court of Justice. Ambreen is deeply committed to access to justice initiatives and to mentoring young lawyers, having worked with and volunteered for numerous legal organizations and provided pro bono services to various community groups.

She holds several professional affiliations, including her role on the Anti-Racism Advisory Council and as Co-chair (VP) of the School Council at Al-Amal Academy. As a founding member of the Lawyers Mentor Group, Ambreen has dedicated years to mentoring junior lawyers. Her dedication as a volunteer presenter at the University of Calgary, SAIT instructor, and Bar Admission Course Assessor highlight her commitment to legal education. Her contributions to the legal profession have earned her numerous accolades, including the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2023 and recognition by the Canadian Muslim Lawyers Association in 2024 in recognition of Women’s history Month honouring Muslim women in Alberta’s legal profession. Ambreen is a tireless contributor to the legal profession, and now the judiciary in Calgary.

COMMUNITY LEADER

NASSER KHAN

While Nasser holds a Master’s degree in International Relations and has a ‘day job’, his passion lies in creating opportunities, experiences and fostering community pride and cohesion for marginalized members of the South Asian community, particularly of Afghani and Pakistani origin. His exemplary leadership skills are demonstrated through his transformative work as co-founder and President of the Canadian Zalmi Society, a registered charity. The organization has several programs to support youth newcomers, low income families and seniors, from food hamper/pantry initiatives, computer literacy programs, cricket and badminton, English language training, and a senior’s program to increase digital literacy. Nasser’s creation of the Community Arts Training Program, mentored and supported 60 youth with artistic skills, culminating in an art exhibition in April 2024, drawing over 1000 attendees.

Whether organizing cultural events in collaboration with community partners, launching digital literacy programs, or addressing food insecurity, Nasser engages others, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. His leadership during the pandemic, where he successfully transitioned programs online, showcases his adaptability and resourcefulness in challenging situations, was exemplary. Nasser is respected for his leadership, characterized by his strategic vision, inclusivity, and deep commitment to service. He takes proactive steps to turn his vision into reality, successfully securing funding, resources and volunteers.

AMISHI AGARWAL

Amishi, a top student at her gifted school, excels not only academically but also as a community leader. She co-founded Youth4Community-Cents, a student-led non-profit that empowers global youth to engage with and address global issues. In 2022-2023, as Youth VP of Marketing and Sales for Junior Achievement Southern Alberta, she helped exceed sales targets. Amishi also co-founded the STEMatic Club, where as Director of Outreach, she inspired youth by bringing in professionals from various fields.

Her internship with Tracecost involved developing dynamic rental prediction software, showcasing her skills in data analysis, machine learning, and software development. Additionally, Amishi volunteers at the Calgary Public Library, teaching young children literacy and digital skills, including coding. Known for her collaborative spirit and commitment to positive community impact, Amishi exemplifies leadership and dedication in both her academic and volunteer efforts.

SAFFAL SHER

Saffal, introduced to the Punjabi music industry by his father at a young age, is now 14 and stands out as one of the youngest singers, lyricists, and composers in the Canadian Punjabi music scene. His debut track, “Kadda,” explores the significance of Sikhi, and he has already shared the stage with prominent artists like Diljit Dosanjh, Ranjit Bawa, Tarsem Jassar, and Gurnam Bhullar. Despite his youth, Saffal possesses a mature voice and exhibits remarkable versatility, blending traditional folk with modern hip-hop and R&B in songs like “Dhokha” and “Pendu Munde,” and showing a softer side in his latest release, “Tell Me.”

A long-time student of classical Indian music, Saffal has a deep understanding of the art form. He has won multiple poetry and singing competitions, including three first-place awards from the Punjabi Likhari Sabha Organization and a first-place win at Punjab Bhavan in Surrey, BC. Additionally, Saffal has volunteered as a sound technician with Youngistaan summer camp for the past two years.

DR. RAMAN GILL

Raman is highly regarded as a community builder and an effective communicator. With a Master’s in Teaching – Secondary Education, she has been an active community volunteer for over 17 years and currently serves on the board of Punjabi Community Health Services Calgary. As a mental health advocate, she founded Diya Women’s Connect in 2020, organizing mentorship programs, wellness activities, and mental health sessions for women. Raman’s leadership extends to initiatives like the “Expressive Art Workshop” for seniors, which she successfully coordinated in 2016. She is a frequent speaker at community events in both Canada and India, including the ChangeMakers seminar by ABC Foundation and the Inspiring Immigrant Women Entrepreneurs event by ATB. Her efforts have earned her accolades, including the prestigious Indian Bharat Kirtiman award in 2023, and recognition as a “Positive Voice of Calgary – South Asian Community” in 2020.

SAROZ KHUNKHUN

Saroz’s extensive volunteer work has had a profound impact on both her local and the broader NE community. Since 2011, she has been a dedicated parent council volunteer at her children’s schools, mentoring other parents and working with school administrations to enhance support for South Asian families. As Treasurer and Co-Chair at her son’s high school parent council since 2019, Saroz played a key role in raising over $200,000 for student breakfast and lunch programs.

Since 2017, Saroz has volunteered with the Whitehorn Community Association, initially as Treasurer and now as President. She has transformed the organization into a vital source of support and unity during times of financial instability. Notably, she addressed food insecurity among seniors by initiating a modest bread donation effort, which evolved into a twice-weekly pop-up pantry supplying free groceries to hundreds of families each month. Collaborating with Guru Nanak Free Kitchen Calgary and the Canadian Zalmi Society, Saroz has mobilized a multi-generational volunteer network, exemplifying inspirational community service and effective collaboration.

CULTURAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

NEPALESE COMMUNITY SOCIETY OF CALGARY

The Nepalese Community Society of Calgary (NCSC) is a leading ethnocultural organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable Calgarians and preserving Nepalese cultural heritage. Since its establishment in 2004, NCSC has grown to serve nearly 3,000 individuals annually through a wide range of programs for children, youth, adults, seniors, and women. These programs focus on fostering social inclusion, enhancing mental and physical well-being, promoting intergenerational and intercultural learning, and encouraging volunteerism. NCSC’s signature events, including the Nepali Mela and Multicultural Showcasing, attracts over 10,000 attendees each year, celebrating multiculturalism, diversity, and anti-racism. These events involve collaboration with over 50 racialized communities, including Indigenous groups, and promote cultural exchange among 23 ethno-cultural communities. In response to community needs, NCSC launched the Help Desk in 2022, providing individualized settlement and navigation services. The organization also offers vital services such as Nepali Pathshala, which has provided language and cultural education to children since 2015, and Nepali Radio Calgary, which raises awareness on cultural heritage, diversity, and entrepreneurship. With a membership of nearly 1,800, NCSC is committed to fostering inclusivity, equity, and a strong sense of belonging for all.

OUTSTANDING NON-PROFIT AGENCY

MD INTERNATIONAL

MD International, a registered charitable organization based in Calgary, is committed to advancing global healthcare, providing essential medical relief, and promoting health education to underserved communities. Their mission is rooted in the belief that healthcare should be accessible to all, regardless of race, religion, gender, income, or ethnicity. The organization supports 100+ International Medical Graduates (IMGs) in navigating the Canadian healthcare system while also addressing urgent global health crises.

MD International’s efforts extend across disaster relief, with notable contributions during the 2017 Pakistan floods and the ongoing support for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization responded swiftly by establishing a multilingual task force to disseminate critical health information through webinars and virtual wellness sessions. Partnering with local organizations, they distributed over $37,000 in hygiene kits and food to vulnerable families in Calgary. Additionally, their “I am a COVID Guardian” campaign produced over 120 videos in 25 languages, spreading crucial pandemic-related information to diverse communities.

As vaccines became available, MD International played a vital role in advocating for immunization, working with partners like the Centre for Newcomers and Primary Care Networks to facilitate pop-up vaccine clinics. Recognizing the mental health toll of the pandemic, they organized seminars and raised over $100,000 for the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation. Their outstanding contributions earned them the prestigious Northern Lights Award in 2021.

The organization operates through several key committees:
1. Disaster & Relief Committee – Focuses on providing medical aid, food, and education to underprivileged communities globally.
2. International Medical Graduates (IMG) Committee – Assists IMGs in transitioning into the Canadian healthcare system through education and support.
3. Clinical Services Committee – Organizes health education activities and events.
4. CME Committee – Ensures high-quality continuing medical education (CME) by organizing professional-led training programs.

MD International strives to create a healthier world by extending medical care and education to those most in need, regardless of their circumstances.