THE Sikh Seva Foundation in coordination with local gurdwaras held a public forum on February 6 following controversies over international students being exploited as well as problems with educational institutions and immigration and other concerns.

Now the various organizations and professionals have come together to form One Voice Canada Society to assist international students. They include: Sikh Seva Foundation, BC Gurdwara Committees, World Sikh Organization (WSO), Khalsa Aid (KA), Akal Academy Surrey, Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen (GNFK), South Asian Family Association (SAFA), South Asian Mental Health Alliance (SAMHAA), 3E Organization (3EO), Camp We Empower, Moving Forward Family Counseling Services (MFFC), police officers, lawyers, immigration consultants, registered nurses,  international students and some media outlets.

Their mission is to provide awareness, support and advocacy (ASA) to students and the community without judgment, in order to create a better society.  The vision is to build a bridge between the local community and international students that can facilitate positive change.

Future plans of the society include collaborating with other community organizations to help deal with ongoing concerns, as well as expanding nationally and bringing about any awareness required at the international level.

The society has organized its launch on Wednesday (April 17) at Surrey’s City Center Library at 10350 University Drive in Room #120 between 6 and 8 p.m.

It will also set up a booth at the Surrey Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan (parade).

For further information, you may contact help@onevoicecanada.org, or visit their website www.onevoicecanada.org.