The 2024 DARPAN Extraordinary Achievement Awards delivered yet another unforgettable evening, celebrating the inspiring achievements of the South Asian community. Held on Friday, September 27, 2024, at the magnificent Aria Convention Centre in Surrey, the event was a black-tie affair that honored ten extraordinary individuals whose passion, hard work, resilience, and dedication inspire the South Asian community and the world.
Presented by the Royal Bank of Canada, along with more than 50 brands sponsoring the 14th edition of the awards, the night was attended by over 850 esteemed guests, including prominent political dignitaries, business leaders, and celebrated individuals across Canada.
Sharing their thoughts on the success of the event, publishers of DARPAN Magazine, Gurvinder Hundal and Ramneek Dhillon, said: "Companies are taking ownership of the event - the community is not just attending but financially backing the event, which is why it has grown into what it is today. Without the community's support and interest, such an event can't grow and thrive".
Distinguished political guests included David Eby, Premier of British Columbia; Hon. Harjit Sajjan; MPs Randeep Sarai and Sukh Dhaliwal; Mayors Brenda Locke of Surrey, Megan Knight of White Rock, and George Harvie of Delta; former Premier Christy Clark; and other prominent leaders.
The event’s esteemed Master of Ceremonies, Husein Madhavji, once again graced the stage, captivating the audience with his charisma and wit, setting the stage for an evening of inspiration and celebration.
The awards night opened with an energetic performance by VanCity Bhangra, who wowed the audience with their dynamic dance moves. Having been part of the sold-out Diljit Dosanjh concert at BC Place, their performance set the stage for the night’s vibrant celebrations.
The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the awards ceremony, where 10 extraordinary individuals were honored for their incredible contributions and achievements in various fields.
Tim Singh Grover: International Sensation
The night started off with DARPAN’s International Sensation for 2024, Tim Singh Grover, captivating the entire audience with his powerful and motivational speech. Every attendee left visibly impressed and inspired by the renowned coach of great sporting legends like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Dwayne Wade, and many others. His remarkable journey, from being born to Sikh parents in England to earning $3.37 an hour at a fitness club to becoming a globally respected physical and mental trainer, leader, and bestselling author, made him a true star of the night.
He talks about mental dominance in his New York Times bestselling books ‘Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable’ and ‘Winning: The Unforgiving Race to Greatness,’ and now consults with businesses, entrepreneurs, leadership groups, athletes, and achievers in any area to be the best version of themselves.
"I’m blessed beyond belief to be a part of this beautiful culture and community, it’s allowed me to be who I am. Never forget who you are, your community, and your culture. It is something that’s yours that nobody can take away. Don’t let any individual change your identity"
Award presented by: Katie Yu, Regional Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC
Keerit Jutla: Corporate Engagement
The first South Asian to become President and CEO of the Association for Mineral Exploration BC in its 100-year history, Keerit Jutla was this year’s recipient of the Corporate Engagement Award.
Keerit Jutla is a lawyer with a decade of experience in the natural resource sector, working with and acting for both mining companies and First Nations. Before joining AME, Keerit spent two years with the BC provincial government at the Environmental Assessment Office and the Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation, where he focused on promoting permit efficiency for mineral exploration projects and operationalizing the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, striving to build permitting certainty to both companies and First Nations.
"All Canadians, regardless of race, religion, culture, gender, rich or poor, urban or rural, are part of the natural resource economy, and I’m excited to continue to build pathways of reconciliation and inclusivity based on mutual respect. Live by your values and ethics, know your worth and potential, and face adversity with a positive mind."
Award presented by: Leigh Heppner, General Manager, Preston Cadillac
Gary Thandi: Community Crusader
Gary Thandi is the Founder and Executive Director of Moving Forward Family Services, a non-profit organization in Surrey, BC, dedicated to providing accessible, culturally adaptive and low-barrier mental health services to all. His commitment to mental health services made him the perfect recipient of the Community Crusader Award this year.
With over twenty years of experience in social work, Gary Thandi created a revolutionary model for providing accessible and affordable mental health services through supervised volunteers and practicum students in counseling programs. This model ensures that those who cannot afford traditional therapy still receive the support they need and that new counselors can learn about the unique needs of South Asians throughout BC.
"Don’t forget to take care of yourselves and others, especially those who may not be doing as well. Question the status quo and realize the potential you have to heal our families, extended families, and communities."
Award presented by: Jas Athwal and the team from Save-On-Foods
Baljit Singh Deo: Artistic Visionary
An outstanding filmmaker, director, and cinematographer whose unique visual style and narrative depth transformed the Punjabi entertainment industry, Baljit Singh Deo received the Artistic Visionary Award for the year 2024.
Originally from the UK, Baljit Singh Deo relocated to Vancouver in 1997, where his career in the entertainment world truly began to flourish. His journey, which started with a passion for photography, evolved into a love for filmmaking, which led him to direct a range of critically acclaimed music videos and films. His photos have been used for operas in France, and he has had the pleasure of collaborating with renowned artists such as AR Rahman, Diljit Dosanjh, Gippy Grewal, Amrinder Gill, and Ammy Virk, to name a few.
"Go out and create till your heart’s content. I don’t think anyone or anything can stop good, creative thinking".
Award presented by: Nav Grewal, Vice President, WBI Home Warranty Ltd
Jasneet Nijjar: Spirit of Sport
The first South Asian female to represent Canada in track and field at the Olympics, Jasneet Nijjar received the Spirit of Sport Award for her dedication and extraordinary achievements both on and off track.
Surrey’s Jasneet Nijjar is not just an athlete with glorious sprinting times but also an inspiration to uncountable young South Asians in Canada & around the world. In 2018, she brought home gold in the 200-meter category at the Canada Junior Track & Field Championships in Ottawa. That same year, she also won triple gold at the BC High School Track & Field Championships, a feat only two others have matched since it began. She is currently a member of the Washington State Cougars track team & looks forward to competing at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo next year.
"Keep dreaming, believe in yourself, and stay dedicated. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger; work hard, and remember why you started."
Award presented by: Riley Wiwchar, Executive Director, Grey Cup 2024, BC Lions
Randip Janda: Breaking Barriers
As the first South Asian Analyst of Color for the Vancouver Canucks, Randip Janda is reshaping representation in the NHL, and received the Breaking Barriers Award this year.
Randip Janda has been the host and analyst on Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi since 2014. His accomplishments in sports broadcasting were recognized at the 2023 NHL All-Star Game, at the launch of the NHL’s United by Hockey Museum. Randip is one of the featured changemakers in the exhibit, celebrating hockey's trailblazers. Randip is dedicated to elevating the stories of South Asians and other underserved communities, providing support through Sportsnet, HNIC Punjabi, and behind the scenes.
"I hope that young people know it is possible to chase your dreams and be successful, all by being true to yourself. I also hope my career shows youngsters in the community that hockey is for everyone and that they, too, have a place here."
Award presented by: Dr. Harj Dhaliwal, Executive Vice President, Allure Ventures
Gurpreet Kaur Bains: Heritage Defender
Gurpreet Bains, an exceptional individual and dedicated public school teacher who has made remarkable contributions to preserving and promoting the Punjabi language, won the Heritage Defender Award this year.
As the Head of the Languages Department and Science teacher at LA Matheson, she has innovatively integrated the Punjabi language and culture into the multicultural fabric of the Surrey School District. She wants to amplify students’ voices and agency around culture, all through Punjabi Language instruction. She has closely worked with the Ministry of Education on curriculum development and helped mentor new Science/Language teachers as a School Associate. She has facilitated and served as a volunteer educational consultant with the ‘Being -Punjabi: Unfolding the Surrey Story’ feature exhibition with the Museum of Surrey. She is the facilitator and co-curriculum writer for the District's Next Hundred Year Mentorship Program, which focuses on mentorship through identity and has presented multiple workshops at local elementary schools. She is the co-founder and facilitator of the Dhahan Youth Punjabi Literature Award in Creative Writing for BC Punjabi language students. Gurpreet's planning of Vaisakhi and Diwali festivals at Surrey’s public schools are phenomenal events, allowing a diverse student and staff body to celebrate Punjabi culture.
"My goal is to continue to educate, empower, and inspire a future generation of community builders and responsible citizens. After all, academic excellence is only achieved when you’re also a contributing member of your community."
Award presented by: Jeet Dhindsa, President & CEO, VanGogh Designs
Dr.Santabhanu Chakrabarti: Industry Marvel
With over 25 years of experience in cardiology and multiple research papers under his belt, Dr. Santabhanu Chakrabarti received the Industry Marvel award this year..
Dr. Santabhanu Chakrabarti is a prominent cardiologist specializing in Cardiac Electrophysiology and Congenital Heart Disease at St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, and a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at UBC. With extensive training in pediatrics and cardiology from India, the UK, and Canada, he has significantly contributed to clinical practice, medical education and community engagement. He has been instrumental in establishing protocols for cardiac device and MRI services in the Lower Mainland and is a founding member of several non-profit organizations aimed at improving cardiac health outcomes in rural India.
"Focus on what you believe and consider how you can help your community. At the end of the day, success is not just about winning; it’s about perseverance, sharing knowledge, and lifting others as you go".
Award presented by: Desjardin Insurance Executives: Zarir Dadinatha, Regional Sales Director, BC, Individual Insurance and Shaun Downey, Regional VP, Sales, Western Canada, Individual Insurance
Majit Lit: Advancing Philanthropy
Manjit Lit, an individual whose unwavering commitment to giving back has profoundly impacted the community, won the Advancing Philanthropy Award this year.
From a humble beginning of owning a small corner shop in London’s Southhall Market, he eventually became a successful property developer and felt he now had the means to give back to society. As a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, Manjit Lit has donated over $1,000,000 to numerous charitable organizations, including the B.C. Cancer Society, Global Village Foundation, and Surrey Hospitals Foundation. In 2022, Manjit was also presented with Peace Arch Hospital Foundation’s Friends of the Foundation Award for his incredible leadership role in nurturing a culture of philanthropy.
"As human beings, we are wired for service and generosity, and our small acts of kindness can make all the difference".
Award presented by: Kully Maan, Partner at KEY Marketing
Aamna Mushtaq: Young Wonder
Winner of the 2024 Loran Scholarship valued at $100,000 Aamna was one of 36 students chosen from over 5,000 applicants across Canada and is a proud recipient of the Young Wonder Award in 2024.
Aamna Mushtaq co-founded a social justice club and led ‘The Dignity Project,’ challenging homelessness stigma and raising substantial support for local non-profits. Her social justice club raised awareness for Palestine and humanitarian aid in Syria and Turkey and has an annual clothing drive where one can donate clothes to the Surrey Women’s Centre.
"Success is not just about reaching your own goals but about the positive impact you can make on others along the way".
Award presented by: University Canada West Executives: Amar Bajwa, Director, Community Engagement and Herneet Dhillon, VP, People and Culture
The evening concluded with a show-stopping performance by Sukshinder Shinda, the iconic 'Music Man' of Punjabi music, who got the audience on their feet with his high-energy performance. This year’s event was a true testament to the community’s spirit, innovation, and boundless potential, leaving attendees inspired and proud of the rich contributions of South Asians in Canada.
