THREE South Asians – Sukhi Brar, Jag Khosa and Min Sidhu – are among the 2018 BC Community Achievers announced this week.
Premier John Horgan and Scott McIntyre, Chair of the British Columbia Achievement Foundation, named this year’s recipients of the BC Community Achievement Awards, marking the 15th offering of these awards.
“The dedication and generosity of British Columbians like these make our communities great places to live,” said Premier John Horgan. “Thanks to the 2018 recipients for helping build a better British Columbia for us all.”
“We are very proud to be able to honour 25 extraordinary British Columbians whose dedication contributes to the health and well-being of our province,” said McIntyre. “We thank them all for their remarkable contributions as both volunteers and engaged citizens.”
An independent committee selects the recipients of the British Columbia Community Achievement Awards. The 2018 selection committee members are Mayor Lyn Hall of Prince George, Mayor Josie Osborne of Tofino and past recipients, Garry F. Benson of Kelowna, Karen Gilmore of Vancouver and David Young of Vancouver.
The recipients of the 2018 awards will be recognized in a formal presentation ceremony at Government House in Victoria on April 25. Each recipient will receive a certificate, and a medallion designed by BC artist Robert Davidson.
SUKHI BRAR of Abbotsford:
Sukhi Brar’s many achievements are a reflection of her dedication and perseverance. As president of the University of the Fraser Valley Student Union Society, Sukhi led the first all-female executive team to govern and serve their 9,000 members. In this role, she assisted with launching services like the Gender Equality Centre, PrideUFV, and a full-service Food Bank operation. Sukhi also developed the 2017-2020 UFVSUS Seeking Reconciliation Strategic Plan and co-developed the school’s ‘Prevention, Education, and Response to Sexualized Violence’ policy which was adopted by the Board of Governors last year. Currently, Sukhi serves as a director for two local non-profit boards.
JAG KHOSA of Surrey:
Sgt. Jag Khosa has worked tirelessly for many years to curb gang violence in his local community. Drawing on his depth of experience and through the support of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of BC (CFSEU-BC), Jag developed an educational platform to reach vulnerable youth and their parents. Through articles, workshops and guest spots on radio and television, Jag is driven to shine a light on gang prevention by sharing CFSEU-BC’s End Gang Life messaging. He also volunteers his time to Students Against Violence Everywhere, SAHELI, Our Global Village and the Surrey Rotary Club. Jag’s commitment has resulted in hope restored to many families and young lives forever changed.
MIN SIDHU of Vernon:
With 22 years of provincial government inner workings Min Sidhu has selflessly dedicated herself to the Vernon community. Serving on numerous community boards in the capacity of Director or President, such as the Okanagan Anti Racism Board, Multicultural Society of Vernon, Vernon Women’s Transition Board, ILearn BC and the Community Foundation of the North Okanagan. Min also founded the Vernon Punjabi Heritage Society, and now serves as its Honorary Chairperson. Her passion for her community and willingness to give and serve were recognized in 2011 when she was awarded the Vernon Woman of the Year Award.
