Calgary SAIA Award Winners

SENATOR BALTEJ SINGH DHILLON

Senator Baltej Dhillon is a trailblazer whose life has been defined by courage, leadership, and service. Emigrating from Malaysia to Canada in 1983, he made national history in 1991 when he became the first Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) officer permitted to wear a turban while in uniform. His advocacy for the right to practice his faith while serving Canada not only changed RCMP policy but also helped reshape conversations about diversity and inclusion across the country.
Over a 30-year career with the RCMP, Mr. Dhillon served in many capacities, including major crime investigator, interrogator, polygraph examiner, intelligence officer, and emergency planner. He contributed to some of Canada’s most high-profile investigations, including the Air India Flight 182 tragedy and the Robert Pickton case. He also held senior leadership roles, such as overseeing the BC RCMP Divisional Emergency Operations Centre and managing intelligence operations for the federal Serious and Organized Crime unit. He was instrumental in establishing the Provincial Intelligence Centre of British Columbia – the first of its kind in Canada – now known as the Real-Time Operations Centre.
Beyond policing, Mr. Dhillon has always been committed to building safer, stronger communities. In 2013, he co-led the Sikh Leadership and Police Committee on Gang Violence, which developed prevention strategies to support vulnerable youth. After retiring from the RCMP in 2019, he continued serving as Program Manager for the Crime Guns Intelligence and Investigations Group with BC’s anti-gang enforcement unit. In 2025, Mr. Dhillon was nominated and appointed to the Senate of Canada – an achievement that stands as a powerful reflection of representation and diversity in our nation’s government.
Mr. Dhillon’s contributions have been recognized with numerous honours, including the Queen Elizabeth II Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals, the RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Times of Canada. He also holds honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from McMaster University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University.
A dedicated community leader, Mr. Dhillon has led youth camps, served on boards, and mentored the next generation, leaving a lasting legacy of inclusion, justice, and public service. His appointment is a true reflection of representation in the federal government.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

RUPIE SACHDEVA

Since 1994, Rupie Sachdeva has been synonymous with unforgettable live concert experiences through her brand “Rupie Sachdeva Presents…”, bringing world-renowned singers and Bollywood’s top entertainers to Calgary. Her vision has enriched the city’s cultural landscape, fostering pride in Indian heritage and paving the way for future promoters and organizers. Rupie’s events have offered newcomers meaningful opportunities to celebrate their culture, build community, and find a sense of belonging at a time when such representation was rare.

Beyond event production, she has contributed as a Creative Consultant and Producer with artists and, since 2018, has been active with A&R, supporting talent scouting and artistic development. Recognized for her pioneering impact, Rupie received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Government of Alberta in 2022 and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2024 for her charitable contributions and leadership. Through her work, she has built bridges between communities, arts, and culture, leaving a lasting legacy of connection, inspiration, and empowerment.

STILL GOING STRONG

GURMIT KAUR SARPAL

In 2006, Gurmit founded the Royal Women Cultural Association, creating a safe space where immigrant women could find their voice, break the silence around domestic abuse, and build resilience. Her vision was shaped by her own journey as a newcomer in 1976, when she faced culture shock, language barriers, and the challenge of rebuilding her career despite being a registered nurse in India.

For nearly five decades, Gurmit has turned her experiences into service, dedicating her life to uplifting others. She worked for over a decade as a community health advocate with Alberta Health Services, leading wellness workshops, and continues to provide free weekly meditation sessions that now reach people internationally. As a mentor and Neuro-linguistic Programming Coach, she inspires personal growth and healing.

Through published stories, media outreach, and countless hours of volunteerism, Gurmit has empowered women who often feel unseen. She leads with compassion, creating community through healing, hope, and belonging.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN
ARTS & CULTURE

KELLY KAUR

Kelly is a writer, speaker, and published author whose works illuminate the South Asian experience, women’s justice, and the immigrant journey. Her writing has reached extraordinary heights – her poem “A Singaporean’s Love Affair” landed on the moon in 2022 as part of the Lunar Codex, and her debut novel Letters to Singapore will travel to the moon in 2025 on NASA’s Astrobotic Griffin/VIPER mission. Her creative nonfiction, including “Warrior Woman”, celebrates the resilience of South Asian women, while her children’s book, Howdy, I’m Singh Hari, introduces young readers to Calgary Sikh pioneers.

Over 1,500 Calgary students have participated in her online readings, and her work has appeared in over 75 publications. Kelly mentors aspiring writers, amplifying South Asian and Sikh voices, and serves as an editor for the International Human Rights Art Movement. Through wit, courage, and grace, she inspires communities locally and globally, using storytelling to educate, empower, and foster understanding across generations.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT
IN MEDIA

KIRAN RANDHAWA

Through her highly-rated podcast Middle Fingers Up, now with over 90 episodes, Kiran has created a bold and transformative platform for dialogue. Guided by her mantra, “with our heads held high and our middle fingers higher,” she tackles issues often left unspoken – mental health, addictions, the immigrant experience, and the unique challenges faced by children of immigrants. By celebrating South Asian leaders and amplifying diverse voices, she fosters unity, trust, and growth within the community.

Her podcast format allows for direct, authentic connection with listeners, while her Instagram presence extends the conversation, cultivating a vibrant online community that champions South Asian stories. Beyond conversation, Kiran integrates corporate social responsibility by supporting charitable causes through merchandise sales. Her work entertains, educates, and empowers, transcending boundaries to connect South Asians worldwide. By tackling complex subjects with honesty and compassion, Kiran not only raises awareness but also builds a culture of empathy, resilience, and belonging.

DISHA JASWAL

Disha is a dedicated basketball player, coach, and community leader with eight years of experience, ranging from school-level competition to high-level club play. She has represented the 18U Canada Basketball Academy and attended the Western Canada Open ID Basketball Camp in 2022, and currently competes with Calgary’s Dynasty Hoops Women’s League, which fosters basketball community and development.

As a coach, Disha has led teams at multiple levels, including as assistant coach for a high school senior girls’ team and as a YMCA youth coach. Since joining KidsPlay Foundation in March 2023, she has helped plan and coach a three-day basketball tournament for over 300 participants featuring WNBA player Mani Stafford and currently serves as lead event coordinator for American football in KidsPlay summer camps in collaboration with Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation.

A South Asian female role model in sports, Disha is developing a free youth basketball training program while completing her BSc in Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. Through her dedication, she inspires young athletes and demonstrates how sports can drive personal growth and community engagement.

HAMZA TARIQ

Hamza is a dedicated cricket enthusiast and founder of the Future Cricket Stars Cricket Academy and the non-profit Future Cricket Stars Foundation, grassroots initiatives promoting cricket across Canada since 2022. Beginning his cricket journey at 15, he made his international debut at 21, playing in the Caribbean Premier League and Global T20, and now represents the Surrey Jaguars. Drawing on his experience, Hamza fosters a nurturing and competitive environment for young cricketers, emphasizing fair play, discipline, teamwork, and character development.

Through well-structured training programs, mentorship, and coaching sessions, Future Cricket Stars helps youth aged 3–18 develop their skills, achieve their potential, and build camaraderie and healthy competition. Over 400 participants benefit at no cost. Hamza collaborates with the KidsPlay Foundation and Calgary Police Service to host community games, strengthen relationships, and create inclusive sporting opportunities. Committed to accessibility and affordability, Hamza uses cricket to engage youth outside school, supporting their mental health, safety, and overall well-being while fostering lifelong values on and off the field.

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN STEEM

DR. RANITA HARPREET KAUR MANOCHA

Ranita is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Calgary in the Departments of Clinical Neurosciences and Kinesiology, balancing her roles as a researcher and physician with a passion for mentorship and innovation. She leads the Better Mobility Lab, supervising over 60 students across disciplines, many from underrepresented communities, and developed a summer internship program to expand opportunities for diverse learners.

In 2021, Ranita and her team launched I Can Walk, a multilingual mobile app teaching safe walking aid use with video feedback,5, now expanded to 55 modules, transforming mobility training across Canada. Her biomechanics research has redefined rehabilitation practices internationally, demonstrating, for example, the benefits of overhead arm exercises for upper limb safety.

As a practicing physician specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ranita provides patient-first care to individuals with disabilities, guiding mobility, bracing, wheelchair seating, and electrodiagnostic testing. Her work bridges research and practice, empowering patients and shaping future healthcare professionals through innovation, mentorship, and inclusivity.

OUTSTANDING
BUSINESS

RESILIENT HEARTS

ARSHDEEP SANDHU, Founder & CEO
Founded in October 2023 by Arshdeep Sandhu, Resilient Hearts empowers young adults with developmental disabilities to build the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to thrive in daily life and pursue long-term goals. Inspired by her work in disability services and her background in psychology, Arshdeep recognized gaps in access to essential life skills training and created Resilient Hearts to bridge them.

The organization takes a person-centered approach, offering day programs, personalized coaching, life skills development, and caregiver respite, while also helping families navigate community and government resources. Its interactive programs are tailored to individual needs, covering areas such as cooking, financial literacy, yoga and wellness, healthy relationships, volunteering, and job readiness.

Beyond programming, Resilient Hearts is developing innovative tools like EmpowerED, a digital handbook connecting families to vital resources and peer support. With compassion and vision, Resilient Hearts builds inclusion, independence, and brighter futures for individuals and their families.

PROFESSIONAL LEADER

DR. SONIA KAUR AUJLA-BHUULLAR

Sonia is an educator, scholar, and researcher dedicated to advancing equity, diversity, and anti-racism in education and communities. She holds a BA in Development Studies, a BEd in Elementary Education, an MA in Educational Research from the University of Calgary, and a PhD in Curriculum and Learning. Her research focuses on anti-racism and bridging connections between schools and racialized communities, including her thesis “Women of Colour in Education: An Exploration of Minority Teacher Experiences,” which highlights the experiences of visible minority women in teaching and informs teacher education, critical pedagogy, and ethnic studies.

As founder of Sayje Consulting, Sonia works with multi-ethnic populations, supporting families, students, and staff with culturally inclusive programming for ESL learners and those with learning disabilities. She is a facilitator with CIWA’s New Friends and Neighborhood Groups, has engaged with Dashmesh Mission Punjabi-Sikh Youth, and serves on the South Asia Police Advisory Committee. Sonia also contributes as a board member of the Alberta Association of Multicultural Education and is the inaugural chair of Calgary’s Anti-Racism Action Committee, driving systemic change and community empowerment.

COMMUNITY LEADER

Sponsored by
MANMEET SINGH BHULLAR FOUNDATION

ADITYA CHAUDHURI

Aditya is a tireless community leader whose volunteerism spans arts, engineering, social justice, and humanitarian work. Since 2017, he has served as President of Raga Mala Music Society of Calgary, nurturing South Asian classical music, while also leading as Music Lead at Madhuban Performing Arts. As Co-founder of Water Movement, he empowers Indigenous water operators with tools and solutions to address Canada’s ongoing water crisis. At the same time, he has led Engineers Without Borders Calgary as President since 2018.

Aditya’s service extends to multiple boards, including the Calgary Social Capital Society, Fair Trade Calgary, Alberta Council for Global Cooperation, and Pawsitive Match Rescue Foundation. Widely described as “a ray of sunshine,” he unites diverse teams with empathy and vision, fostering collaboration and innovation. Recognized as one of Alberta’s Top 30 Under 30, and with Water Movement honored at the Canada Water Awards, Aditya exemplifies Manmeet Singh Bhullar’s spirit of service and action.

LOBJOT MALHI

Lobjot is a young entrepreneur and community leader whose ventures and volunteerism reflect his passion for culture, inclusion, and youth empowerment. In October 2023, he launched the clothing brand RACKZROUNDS, inspired by Punjabi music and heritage, with multiple sold-out releases. He also owns a vehicle rim repair and customization business, starting his entrepreneurial journey during the pandemic with custom masks.

Since age 13, Lobjot has volunteered with KidsPlay Foundation, quickly becoming a lead volunteer by 17, motivating youth to pursue sports and collaborating with professional athletes at Calgary Flames summer camps. He co-founded the Khalsa Toy Drive, supporting Alberta Children’s Hospital and Salvation Army’s Toy Angels program. Lobjot also made history by providing Punjabi commentary for Calgary Stampeders, Roughnecks, and Surge games, breaking barriers for cultural representation in mainstream sports.
Through his work, Lobjot reduces obstacles for young people in sports, promotes inclusion, and inspires the next generation to lead with passion, creativity, and community spirit.

JIYA JAKHER

Jiya is an academic and community leader whose impact spans research, advocacy, and service. One of only 10 students in Canada awarded the full National Scholarship to attend the University of Toronto, she maintains a 4.0 GPA in her pre-med program studying global health, physiology, and immunology. Inspired by hundreds of volunteer hours with the Kids Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta, Jiya aspires to a career in pediatric cancer surgery, advocating for young people facing cancer.
Her advocacy began during the pandemic, founding her high school’s Student Advocacy Group and serving on the Education Minister’s Youth Council to influence provincial learning policies. She has contributed to the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation Youth Council, organized fundraising events, and led her debate team as captain and coach.

As a researcher, she has presented work in regenerative medicine and bioengineering and now leads a full-year transplantation research project at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Jiya also fosters community at U of T as President of the Human Biology Student Union and creator of the Humans of U of T podcast.

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER

YUBRAJ GURUNG

Yubraj is a dedicated cultural leader, performer, and educator, deeply committed to preserving and promoting Nepali heritage in Calgary. As Cultural and Heritage Coordinator of the Nepalese Community Society of Calgary (NCSC) from 2022–2024 and Cultural and Event Lead of Tamu Dhee Calgary, he has organized major cultural events, including the annual Nepali Mela and the 2023 Deusi Bhailo celebration, raising funds to build seven transitional houses for earthquake victims in Jajarkot, Nepal.

A skilled choreographer, Bharatanatyam dancer, and musician, Yubraj was first runner-up in the 2021 Non-Resident Nepali Association Idol competition. He has taught high-demand classes on the Madal and introduced the traditional Panchebaje instruments to Calgary, training community members of all ages. Through his Nepali radio program on Red FM 106.7, he promotes music, culture, and local artists.

Yubraj’s volunteerism and artistry foster cultural pride, unity, and intergenerational learning, strengthening the Nepali-Albertan community and ensuring the vibrancy of its traditions and heritage for years to come.

CULTURAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

HINDU SOCIETY OF CALGARY

KAMALDEEP SHARMA, Chairman
RAJ VERMA, President

The Hindu Society of Calgary is a long-standing religious and cultural non-profit organization dedicated to serving the spiritual, cultural, and social needs of Calgary’s Hindu community. Established by early immigrants from India and East Africa, it is one of the city’s oldest South Asian organizations, providing newcomers with a sense of belonging, connection, and community. By 1990–1991, the Society had built Calgary’s first Hindu mandir, which has since become a hub for religious services, cultural education, and collaborative community initiatives.

The Society operates a Vidyala (school) offering yoga and wellness classes and hosts a variety of cultural events, including classical dance and music recitals, festival dramas, and competitions. It is committed to charitable work, supporting local food banks and responding to local and international crises. Its mandir also serves as a meeting place for interfaith and multicultural activities, hosting the Calgary Interfaith Council and open houses during World Interfaith Harmony Week, welcoming Calgarians from all backgrounds.
Through decades of growth, including a large-scale renovation to improve accessibility, the Hindu Society continues to preserve traditions, foster unity, and support the well-being of its members and the wider community, guided by a dedicated Board of Trustees and operations team.port the well-being of the wider community.

OUTSTANDING NON-PROFIT AGENCY

CANADIAN IMMIGRANT WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

PAULA CALDERON, Chief Executive Officer

This year, the Board selected the Canadian Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA), a pioneering organization established in 1982 that has earned a reputation as one of Calgary’s most culturally responsive service providers. CIWA is dedicated to supporting immigrant and refugee women, girls, and their families, addressing their unique and emerging needs through a holistic suite of programs. Services include settlement and integration support, literacy and language training, employment and bridging programs, family violence intervention, parenting support, individual counselling, in-home support, civic engagement, health, housing, and community development. CIWA provides critical emergency housing to clients fleeing family violence, and all clients have access to childcare and first-language support during group sessions and appointments, with certified interpreters and translators available in 37 languages.

The organization’s sixty-plus programs are adaptable to diverse languages, faith practices, and family norms. Between 2019–2025, CIWA directly served 10,341 South Asian women and girls, nearly 25% of all clients. Community initiatives like Grandma’s Kitchen, a weekly seniors’ wellness circle, combat isolation while promoting social connection. Gender-based violence prevention workshops combine legal education with culturally safe safety planning and are consistently filled by South Asian participants.

CIWA amplifies its impact through strategic partnerships, deploying counsellors with the Calgary Police Domestic Conflict Response Team, co-facilitating mental health groups with Punjabi Community Health Services, and delivering mobile outreach at sites including the Hindu Society Mandir, Baitun Nur Ahmadiyya Mosque, Dashmesh Cultural Society Gurdwara, Bangladeshi Society, Ismaili Jamatkhana, and Nepalese Community Society. Alberta Health Services and RedFM Radio Calgary are key partners in supporting community initiatives.

A pillar of Calgary, CIWA hosts programs in over 90 locations and partners with more than 230 employers to enhance immigrant women’s access to employment. Guided by CEO Paula Calderon and a diverse board, CIWA’s 17-member leadership team brings expertise and vision, ensuring that immigrant women and girls have the resources, support, and opportunities to thrive, while strengthening the social and cultural fabric of Calgary for decades to come.