Close X
Saturday, November 23, 2024
ADVT 
Feature

Deputy Chief Constable Steve Rai: Building a Rewarding Career with the VPD

Naina Grewal Darpan, 04 Nov, 2024
  • Deputy Chief Constable Steve Rai: Building a Rewarding Career with the VPD

Deputy Chief Constable Steve Rai’s career with the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) is an inspiring story of dedication, leadership, and a deep commitment to both law enforcement and community service. Embarking on a remarkable journey that would see him rise to one of the highest ranks in the VPD, Rai started his career with the VPD in 1990 as a frontline patrol constable. 

Reflecting on his roots, Rai has often emphasized the importance of his cultural background in shaping his approach to policing. Drawing on his cultural experience has been key in serving the district’s ethnically diverse communities. He shares, “Increasing diversity has always been the goal of any strong, viable, and good police department. They will always say recruiting from the community to reflect the community is a priority.” As per Rai, the VPD is the most diverse police force in the province and ranks among the top five for diversity in the country.

Attributing his success to his willingness to embrace challenges and remain open to learning, Rai says, “I never said no to anything. It’s easy to say no, but saying yes helps you grow. Whether it was writing a warrant at 3:00 am, near the end of my shift, or stepping into the field late at night in the rain, I always said yes. By accepting every challenge, I gained a wealth of experience at a very young age.”

For aspiring recruits, Rai’s advice is to make good decisions and have fun, but also be mindful that some choices will have a long-term impact; the goal should be to pursue interests while prioritizing education, taking care of health, and striving to grow into a well-rounded individual with a broad perspective on the world. 

Rai highlights, “I wanted a profession that had teamwork in it and that would look different every day. In 34 years, I’ve had probably 17 different careers within my vocation. Every 2 or 3 years, I do something different. Moreover, I've never regretted my career choice! I'd do it all over again, and VPD feels like a second home. With our attrition rate below 1%, it's clear that no one quits; they retire, but they don't quit.”

If you're considering a career in policing, Rai’s journey exemplifies firsthand that VPD addresses a wide spectrum of issues and offers diverse, rewarding opportunities beyond crime fighting. These include working with young people, families, women, the elderly, and even tech crime. As Rai puts it, “This truly is a career that offers everything!”

MORE Feature ARTICLES

Homeowners, take note

Homeowners, take note

As of January 1, 2018, Canadians looking to get a mortgage will have to do so under tighter guidelines.

What’s for Breakfast?

What’s for Breakfast?

Lack of breakfast among growing kids in Canada is slowly becoming a concern that can affect the future of the country.

Vancouver Canucks: A Chance to Change their Story

Just as each new season brings about the opportunity to win more games, grow as a team and become a Cup contender, the Canucks believe that this season is no different. 

Welcome Light in Your Homes & Hearts

Welcome Light in Your Homes & Hearts

Diwali teaches us to take a step towards ourselves and initiate self-love and positivity.

Diwali For the First-Timers

Diwali For the First-Timers
Many South Asians celebrate, and this year it falls on October 19. No matter your faith, everyone can share in the joy of Diwali by coming together with family and friends. 

The Big Diwali Releases

The Big Diwali Releases

Diwali festivities are truly not complete for a cinephile if it is not complemented with an outing to cinema halls to catch a film with family and friends.