The 2014 DARPAN Extraordinary Achievement Awards was truly a night of wonder. Celebrating DARPAN Magazine’s 10 years in the publishing industry and 5 years of the Extraordinary Achievement Awards, this year’s awards night soared to new heights, and will definitely be remembered for its glitz, glamour and inspiration.
This preeminent social, networking and philanthropic event of the year was held on September 19th at the Aria Banquet Hall and Convention Centre, where over 700 individuals were in attendance, ranging from key stakeholders, influential community and business leaders as well as dignitaries.
The evening began at the ritzy red carpet, which was sponsored by Preston. As guests walked across the plush red carpet, they were treated to a DJ spinning upbeat tracks, a giant ice sculpture, a media wall to pose for the paparazzi and a luxurious multi-Cadillac escalade showcase, which was definitely a show-stopper.
Moving next into the lavish lounge where guests were welcomed with a drink, cocktail hour was a tremendous success. Sponsored by Thind Properties, the air was abuzz with conversation and laughter as guests networked with the business elite, sponsors, dignitaries and award recipients.
With bars serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, catchy tunes, canapés and media presence, the pre-award soiree was an elegant affair.
The Masters of Ceremonies, Huse Madhavji, flew in from Toronto to host the Awards for the third time and greeted the guests as they entered the lavish banquet hall.
This multi-talented host, actor and producer started the evening on a high note. Vivah Collection put on a fabulous fashion show, displaying the latest trends in South Asian haute couture and bridal wear. Gorgeous models, decked out in gorgeous lenghas, saris and suits, sashayed down the runway.
The Shiamak Davar Dance troupe also entertained the audience with their bold, sultry moves as they performed the various dances of India.
After a round of impressive speeches by BC Premier Christy Clark, Surrey Mayor, Diane Watts and Vice president and deputy general manager of Canadian Western Bank BC region, Bob Duffield, the title sponsor of the awards, our keynote speaker, Anuradha Koirala took the stage.
An iron-willed activist and founder of Maiti Nepal, Koirala is renowned for her life-long dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating women and children from sex-trade and trafficking. She held the crowd captivated with her visionary speech.
The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the awards segment.
Ten outstanding individuals were presented with the one-of-a-kind glass trophies for their extraordinary achievements in 10 categories: Advancing Philanthropy, Artistic Visionary, Breaking Barriers, Community Crusader, Corporate Engagement, Heritage Defender, Industry Marvel, International Sensation, Spirit of Sport and Young Wonder.
These individuals were celebrated for their extraordinary achievements, for reflecting their South Asian heritage in a remarkable way and their contribution to the Canadian cultural landscape.
“It is our hope that the life and work of these Award recipients will serve as an inspiration for all South Asians to realize the power of their dreams,” say the Publishers of DARPAN Magazine, Gurvinder Hundal and Ramneek Dhillon.
“From our inaugural event to now, our goal is to showcase the gems of the South Asian community and honour them with DARPAN Magazine’s Extraordinary Achievement Awards – we hope this simple act will trigger the ripple effect of inspiring more South Asians to do the extraordinary.”
On behalf of the DARPAN team, thank you to all our sponsors and guests for helping us honour our Award recipients and making this a night to remember. We also thank you for all the support and dedication you have shown this these past 10 years.
