Cover Story

Realizing their dreams & inspiringthe next generation

Monica Sethi Darpan, 24 May, 2024

In the vibrant and diverse community of British Columbia, six upcoming South Asian athletes are making significant strides in their respective sports, bringing pride and inspiration to the nation and their community. These athletes, including Jeevan Badwal, Angela Arora, Robin Thind, Angel Billen, Pari Goyal, and Saaya Bhandari, each showcase what it takes to succeed at high levels of competition. Their journeys provide a glimpse into the dedication, resilience, and support necessary to excel in sports.

These athletes not only achieve personal milestones but also inspire young, aspiring athletes, especially those from the South Asian community. Their stories illustrate the need for sponsorships and community support to overcome financial barriers and provide growth opportunities.

Through their achievements and perseverance, these athletes are paving the way for future generations, proving that with dedication, hard work, and the right support, dreams can be realized on the global stage.

Jeevan Badwal, Soccer's Rising Star

Jeevan Badwal, a rising star in Canadian soccer, embodies the dreams and aspirations of a vibrant South Asian community in British Columbia. From his early days playing with Surrey FC, influenced by a family deeply rooted in soccer, Jeevan's journey has been shaped by passion, dedication, and a profound familial support system. His parents have been his cornerstone, providing logistical support and the emotional backbone necessary for his ascent in the sport...... CLICK TO READ HIS STORY

Angela Arora, Teeing Up for Global Golf Success

At just 19, Angela Arora has quickly risen and is making a mark in golf. Her introduction to golf came when she was just six, spurred by her father's enthusiasm for the sport. Her passion was ignited further when she witnessed the prowess of professional golfers at the CPKC Women's Open. This event solidified her aspiration to reach the pinnacle of golfing excellence....... CLICK TO READ HER STORY

Robin Thind, Field Hockey Prodigy

Robin Thind, a rising star in field hockey, exemplifies the power of dedication, skill, and community support. Representing the South Asian community in Canada, his journey from a young enthusiast to a pivotal player on the under-21 Canadian team showcases the impact of local sports infrastructure in nurturing talent........ CLICK TO READ HIS STORY

Angel Billen, Weightlifting Her Way to the Top

Angel Billen stands out as a symbol of strength and determination in the Canadian sports arena, especially in weightlifting. As the number one youth weightlifter in British Columbia and a commanding presence on the international stage, Angel's journey through the world of sports is inspiring and transformative, especially for women in athletics......... CLICK TO READ HER STORY

Pari Goyal, A Trailblazer in Rhythmic Gymnastics

Introduced to rhythmic gymnastics at a local community center when she was four, Pari quickly fell in love with the grace and discipline the sport demanded. Her passion, fueled by rhythmic gymnastics' unique blend of strength, coordination, flexibility, and apparatus technique, contrasted beautifully with the sport's inherent artistic expression.......... CLICK TO READ HER STORY

Saaya Bhandari, A New Force in Lacrosse

At just 17 years old, Saaya Bhandari is already a prominent name in Canadian lacrosse, known for her skill, tenacity, and ability to inspire. As a player who has shattered barriers and fostered diversity within the sport, Saaya brings a fresh perspective to lacrosse, a field where female athletes of colour like herself were once scarce........... CLICK TO READ HER STORY

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