‘Health is not just absence of illness…’

‘Health is about the ability to reach your full potential. Domestic violence too is considered a health issue, because it is something that impacts the body.”

DIVYA KAELEY

 Hersh Sehdev was all of 22 and just married when she arrived in Canada in 1977. A protected childhood spent in Kolkata and Delhi, with a convent education at institutions like Loreto and Lady Irwin, Hersh braced for a new life ahead in Canada with a supportive and an encouraging husband.

The executive director of Kingston Community Health Centres (KCHC), Hersh Sehdev is today responsible for community building and providing care to the disadvantaged populations in Kingston, Nappanee and surrounding area. Community building came naturally to her, as she gained experience from South Riverdale CHC, the United Way of Greater Toronto, Riverdale Immigrant Women’s Centre, YWCA Toronto and Unicef India. With several research publications under her belt, Hersh is a veteran in the field of multiculturalism and health care, counseling, community building and health care planning.

“I would describe my 36 years of journey as interesting,” says Hersh smilingly. After her initial equivalency from Ryerson, a stint as a dietician, Hersh went to University of Toronto to study Masters in community health. “I think I was the only non-white person in my class,” she reflects. “The environment outside was different. Toronto was much more ‘white’ those days; and there were incidents of racism.” But in spite of that, “I met people who looked beyond my skin colour. They met someone who had a degree here and could speak English.”

But after doing her Masters, Hersh went through the same travails of finding a job. “It wasn’t easy to get a job here, because I didn’t have any Canadian experience.” She decided that she just didn’t want to be “that Indian girl”. “I didn’t want any labels on me. I just didn’t want to stick to my Indian community.” While doing her Masters, she started volunteering at different places. “I had a small child to take care of but I went beyond the family pressures and was out and about. There was a hunger in me to learn and grow. May be this was my spirituality, I wanted to do my best and wanted to be myself,” she tells us.

In 1981-82, Hersh landed with a research project on health and eventually wrote a book on multiculturalism and community health. The book was published in 1985. Hersh became the first director of Riverdale Immigrant Women’s Center and came across cases of domestic violence on an everyday basis. As she points out, “For women to flourish, they have to be economically independent.” Health is a broadly defined term – “it’s not just absence of illness in the body. Health is about the ability to reach your potential.” In her opinion, violence too is considered a health issue. As a health care organization, “violence is something that impacts the body”. Besides this, South Asian community has huge health issues – they have problems with cardiovascular diseases and they lack exercise. “But the bigger issue is how we see ourselves as members of a larger community. The question is: how do we raise our children, and what expectations do we have from ourselves?”

Hersh sits on the Association of Ontario Health Centres’ Strategy Group and Performance Management Committee. In the past, she has been a part of the Mayor’s Task Force on Poverty, the Planning Advisory of the Ontario Early Year’s Centres and a board member of the Community Social Planning Council of Toronto to name a few. She is a recipient of the International Women’s Day Award (2011) and the Ontario Medical Association’s Community Services Award (2012).

Hersh and her family are followers of Sikhism; her husband and sons wear turbans but, as she points out “we are very modern in our approach”. There are children of immigrants who lead a dual life. “Children of immigrants face a tougher time than immigrants themselves. Our children are always struggling with their identities.” In some cases, there is a rapport among family members and so people talk. In some cases there isn’t. “We need to be with our children. We need to face challenges of parenting our children in a dual-culture society,” she says.

Coming to Canada and settling here all over again can be quite a challenging task for many. “You need to be prepared once you come here, especially if one is immigrating in his 30s or 40s,” says Hersh, citing the story of her brother who faced a hard time settling here. It, therefore, becomes important “to get out and mingle with people outside your community, getting your language right and learning all the soft skills for employment purposes”. Indians are smart people, she says. “But sometimes we get sucked into our comfort zone – I too need my Indian parties, my visits to the gurdwara, but I also need to be out there in the community. I’ve chosen my Canada as my home, so I push myself out a little bit.”

Hersh’s decribes her journey as “bumpy in the start, but smooth later”. Climbing to the top wasn’t an easy ride either she faced her share of discrimination. “I’ve been called a Paki b***h on the streets and several other things.” But she ultimately met some excellent people who saw beyond her race. “You just need that one break for things to start rolling.”

Hersh feels blessed to have children who share a brilliant relationship with their parents; it’s a “democratic household”. She advises on the importance of children expressing themselves, albeit respectfully.

Today she is the CEO of KCHC, but she still wants to push the envelope – she wants to do more writing, spend time with her grand children and take up issues of women and the South Asian elderly. “Our elderly are suffering. I want to do something in that direction,” she signs off.

‘We help you find your strength…’

‘If success does not come to us, we will go looking for it’ – Hima Soni

‘We believe if you make a change in yourself, then a lot of changes take place around you automatically.’ – Shibani Somani

DIVYA KAELEY

Executive director at Just IDEAS, Shibani Somani is a post graduate in Business Management and a Certified Life Coach. Shibani has a comprehensive experience of more than 15 years in industries like aviation, advertising, insurance and finance. Hima Soni is the director at Just IDEAS and has a decade of experience in developing human capital across diverse industries extending from quality management, health care, shipping, engineering, retail and consultancy.

Shibani’s curiosity to answer some of life’s big questions like, ‘who am I’, ‘what is my role in this life, ignited her interest in the metaphysical world. She studied further to become an Integrated Clinical Hypnotherapist, NLP Practitioner, Theta Healing, Reiki and Pranic Healer. Every holistic modality she learnt helped to better understand how to take charge of one’s life. Through all this, Shibani has facilitated individual sessions and workshops to help clients realize the extent of their potential to achieve goals that really matter and guided their journey of inner self discovery. While Hima, a Masters in Organizational Psychology and a Certified Life Coach, has successfully designed developed and delivered over 200 sessions to 2000+ cross functional staff across countries.

The corporate mantra of Just Ideas is “wellness meets workplace”. As they design their workshops specifically for each client, Hima and Shibani have had the opportunity to work with many institutions. They have worked with children aged 6 to 15 at Asian Heritage Month, 2012, for Peel district school Board. The workshops were ‘Leadership in You’ and ‘Buzzing Bees’.

Their clients include Brampton Multicultural Community Centre; Canadian Mental Health Association (Toronto); Communication Advertising and Marketing Professionals (CAMP); CultureLink Toronto and Four Corners Health Centre Malton. Their Mind Detox and Balancing Act workshop are the most popular workshops. “These are very experiential and reflective. Says Shibani, “These workshops empower the participants to focus on goals and bring back the balance with implementable self-help techniques.” They have conducted these workshops with CMHA, The Bishop Strachan School, CultureLink Toronto and Mini-Skool.

Shibani came to Canada in July 2010. “I came with a lot of dreams and aspirations and with a mindset to succeed.” But as time went by she could not find a job even though she had a post graduate diploma in Business Management and was a Certified Life Coach. “Luckily my husband found a job with Mercedes Benz and was settled which financially kept us going stable and the kids were very well adjusted to the schools here and loved it,” she says.

During one of the HR connections workshops, Shibani met Hima who is also her business partner now. They put all their skills together and started their holistic solutions providing company called Just IDEAS.

Hima came to Canada in early May 2010 from Dubai. “My experience has been no different from any other new immigrant; I too came to Canada and then was made to realize that I did not have any “gold dust” (Canadian work experience). I just chose to react differently to what was served to me. I did not subscribe to the saying that I may or may not succeed but my children will. Or that it will take me 10 years to succeed just like it has taken some others. We at Just IDEAS want to break the myth. If success does not come to us, we will go looking for it,” she tells us. “We really haven’t achieved what we have set out for ourselves yet, however what we can say to others like us is don’t give up no matter how tough it gets.”

Hima and Shibani have also worked with newcomers with their ‘Whine Whine To Win Win’ workshop – they’ve delivered this at Communication Advertising and Marketing Professionals (CAMP), Newcomer Centre of Peel, Second Annual Career Education and Settlement Fair, 2012 . “This workshop is about motivational tools that help identify self worth, inspires people to move forward and helps them to view life with a new perspective. We have a whole plethora of workshops starting from meditations to personal development, networking and communication skills etc,” says Shibani.

Shibani and Hima are currently working with PCHS (Punjabi Community Health Services) with a Sahara women’s group – the women are facing challenges on many fronts including domestic, alcohol and physical abuse. “We are helping them find their strength and live each day positively.” They have done a team building workshop for Punjabi Community Health Services(PCHS) and Newcomer centre of Peel (NCP), and have also designed and delivered a Decision making Workshop for PCHS.

Hima and Shibani started their venture in March 2011, and were the first ones to do so from their course. They were amongst the selected 7 newcomer entrepreneurs across Ontario to meet Premier Dalton McGuinty and Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Dr. Eric Hoskins. “During the HR course we were told to use our transferable skills as well. So, during our workshops we also teach how to distress our minds through meditation. There’s nobody in the trade who uses meditation and getting in touch with yourself in the course of corporate training. Through our workshops, we also touch humanity,” says Shibani. “We believe if you make a change in yourself, then a lot of changes take place around you automatically.”

The duo is also involved in a lot of personal and one-on-one coaching pertaining to marital problems, child challenges and interview challenges. As Shibani points out, there are so many avenues available for immigrants. “Please don’t believe them who say that one can only work at Tim Hortons, Sears or clean up toilets initially for a living. Learn and explore things. Please don’t a grudge against what you don’t know; instead learn what is required of you to know. Culture, diction, food – everything is different. Be changed along the way and things will change. Don’t listen to negativity. We took a lot of feedback from people as an encouragement. Also, don’t just sit within your own community.” she adds. “Immigrants come with a lot of expectations, but they have to be realistic in their goals. Networking is extremely important. Get up and meet people. Finding a mentor in your field is again quite helpful.” Hima adds that a lot is being done at present by the government for newcomers and internationally-trained professionals. “However there is always room for improvement.”

Besides offering holistic training solutions to organizations, Just IDEAS also works with youth to empower them to deal with emotions like fear, anger, worry, anxiety, depression and frustration. It does so by making them realize that all have the ability to perform well.

 “We teach people what we have learnt and what has worked for us,” Shibani opines. “As an individual, Canada has taught me a lot. With my work I know I have touched lives of a number of people. I have brought a positive shift in their outlook and attitude, for some I have given them a reason to live and look forward to what live holds for them in the future. I pray each day that God gives me more opportunities to carry on this work. I never knew I will have my own business and work on this level before I came here but today I know there is nothing else I would want to do more ,” says Shibani as she signs off.

“I was told that there is this idea [of introducing Hockey Night in Punjabi] and your name has come up. I was shocked. I had no idea that it was ever possible, especially when hockey is such a big part of this country.”

“Some of the players are great and are willing to learn Punjabi .. to say hello and good bye.”

If you are a hockey fan in the South Asian community, the name Harnarayan Singh is a household name for you. For the past four years, Harnarayan is a voice of CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi, officially called CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi presented by Chevrolet.

While he has made his name as a hockey broadcaster, he is a die-hard fan of the game itself and has another passion in life, music. Harnarayan plays tabla and harmonium and sings.

When asked how he describes himself, in his quiet, humble voice, he told us “I am a very big fan of the game, I love to talk and express myself verbally about hockey. Doing this [broadcasting] is just an icing on the cake. I can play tabla and harmonium. If I had to pick one passion, I couldn’t really pick one.”

Harnarayan embodies the traditional Sikh humility in the sense that he is grateful to many things in life. He is especially thankful for the opportunity that knocked on his door when the idea of having Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi first popped.

He shares with Generation Next’s readers that ” at the time when I received the call about this, I was doing a local news shift for CBC. I was told that there is this idea [of introducing Hockey Night in Punjabi] and your name has come up. I was shocked. I had no idea that it was ever possible, especially when hockey is such a big part of this country.”

Once Harnarayan signed up for this very      important gig in his life, he began to realize that “Punjabi is the third most spoken language in Canada, how big our community is, how the South Asian community has become part of the fabric of the Canadian landscape, that there are South Asian MPs and big business owners who are South Asians.”

For the first time he realized the true meaning of Canadian multiculturalism where South Asians were not only “immigrants but Canadians and this is our own country .. where we celebrate as Canadians and where we can have our own differences, heritage and culture .. this is multiculturalism at its best,” he says excitedly.

And yet, the number of South Asian players in hockey can be counted on fingers of human hands.

Harnarayan acknowledges that ” it’s a very good point .. Hockey is an expensive sport .. when you come in as new immigrants, there are different sets of needs you have .. to put food on the table etc .. but in my generation, I really see a lot of people where N.H.L and hockey is the big part of their lives from a very very young age. In hockey, you have to put a kid on a skating rink at a very young age of five or even four.”

Nonetheless, he points out Manny Malhotra, Jujhar Khaira, Sahir Gill, Prab Rai, Nazem Kadri (Lebanese descent) and Kevin Sundher from minor hockey leagues.

Has the South Asian community become influential enough to have stakes or investments in hockey teams?

“I think so. The business community is very successful .. there are now many South Asian businesses that have become national businesses with a number of branches across Canada. They are certainly capable of sponsoring or investing” in hockey teams.

As part of his job, Harnarayan is grateful to have an opportunity to meet with hockey players, managers and coaches.

Dodging the question of who his favourite player is in contemporary hockey, he notes that when they “walk into the dressing rooms, players make us feel at home. Some of the players are great and are willing to learn Punjabi .. to say hello and good bye,” and yes these players are curious to learn some bad words in Punjabi too.

Harnarayan believes that there is a realization among hockey teams and in N.H.L that “hockey enrollment is stagnant or has gone down because of changing demographics .. so they have to cater to diverse communities.”

CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi is playing a huge role in sparking the interest of diverse communities such as South Asian community.

Through mid-March, average online viewership had increased 45 percent per game since the 2011-12 regular season. Last year’s playoff games drew 229 percent more online viewers than the playoff games in 2011.

And Harnarayan has a lot to do with hockey’s popularity in the South Asian community. Harnarayan often gets to meet with South Asian fans at a local hockey rink who tell him that they didn’t know anything about hockey before CBC’s broadcast.

There are South Asian parents who walk up to him to share that their kid is the best in their team, however they are unaware of what are the next steps to be taken toward professional hockey.

Harnarayan often gets a question whether he would form a league or an organization to help South Asian kids get to professional hockey. He hasn’t decided that yet however he knows Hockey Canada has published material to get its message out on what steps to follow or what are the next levels, but a lot more needs to be done.

In recent months, a concern has been raised that head injuries can cause permanent damage in hockey players. What’s Harnarayan’s opinion on the issue?

“N.H.L is trying to do a lot after 2004 implementation of some rules that made the game much faster. The players are a lot bigger and stronger. There are 18 and 19 year-olds who are ready to play in N.H.L .. Back then they didn’t weigh as much and they didn’t hit as hard .. N.H.L has set new guidelines .. it’s work in progress” Harnarayan says.

While Harnarayan’s professional life is full of interesting details, his personal story is also the one to be worth narrating. His family has lived in Canada for over 106 years. His great grandfather came to British Columbia in 1907, worked on rail road tracks, but went back to India. His parents immigrated to Canada in 1960s, worked as English school teachers in high school and colleges.

His parents developed a sense of community where they taught kids Punjabi language and instilled the love of traditional music in kids. With beard and turban, Harnarayan learned Punjabi language and has a tinge of Punjabi accent. He never knew that his knowledge of Punjabi “will come in handy” to fulfill his ultimate wish.

He says it ” was very important for my parents to maintain a part of their heritage .. they are proud Canadians but they wanted to make sure that the language wasn’t lost and that the tradition wasn’t lost .. they made things fun .. so it was never a burden .. music was a cool way to spark interest in me.” Having to wear a turban or grow beard was never a problem for Harnarayan.

Unlike many South Asian parents, Harnarayan’s parents supported him in his obsession of playing hockey. While he didn’t play any professional hockey, the knowledge and passion of the game of hockey, ins and outs of it, what’s happening on the ice, moves of hockey players, what gesture means what, why the penalty was called and so on helps him be a good hockey commentator.

In response to a question that doesn’t having the name such as Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi sets apart Punjabis from the rest of the South Asian community, Harnarayan says that “our show is viewed by various groups of the South Asian community who – Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs – understand Punjabi .. people from India and Pakistan can understand it .. we get comments on Facebook and Twitter from viewers from different ethnic backgrounds and nationalities.”

With marital experience of almost two years under his belt, Harnarayan wanted his wife to be in love with hockey too. In Sukhjeet Kaur, he found a wife, a hockey lover and a teacher. They had a hockey themed wedding, with wedding reception held in a hockey arena and where guests got to wear jerseys.

In the next ten years, Harnarayan Singh wants to become a greater part of hockey, “calling more and more of hockey in Punjabi or even in English.”

‘I am blessed that I am the first Indian woman, who launched the first Hindi talk show on ATN almost thirty years ago and that show is still going on.’

‘We all, who are well settled in this country, have social responsibility to guide new immigrants and become their role models.’

DIVYA KAELEY

Kanta Arora came to Canada along with her husband in 1969 from India. She is a community activist, social worker, dynamic public speaker and a television talk show Host. In 1985, she was the first Indian woman, appointed to Ontario Social Assistance Review Board (SARB). She is founder & President of Arco International Languages, which provides translation and Interpretation services in over 145 languages.

Kanta along with other friends, founded the Toronto Netralya Lions Club in 2009 and during the first four years raised over half a million dollars for CNIB and other institutes in Canada and India. She has served on the board of various charitable and professional organizations. 1984 and 1985 she coordinated memorials of late Prime Minister of India, Mrs. Indira Gandhi and Air India Bomb Blast Victims and founded “Vishwas” Charitable organization to organize Yoga, Meditation Camps and raised money for humanitarian causes. She is a founder member, trustee and Past President of AWIC Community and Social Services, a former director of the South Asian Family Support Services (SAFSS) and chaired the Scarborough Chamber of Commerce, Education Committee.

A recipient of many outstanding awards like the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Award, Queen’s Golden Jubilee Award, National Ethnic Media Award, National Canada Literacy Volunteer Award and Outstanding Community Outreach, Kanta is known for her services in the community of the Canadian Mosaic. She talks us through her life journey in a conversation with Generation Next

1.      Tell us something about your initial life in Canada, and the idea of developing language services.

In the beginning like everyone else, we went through many hardships to settle. I felt very lonely, I started working, joined night school and started volunteering in the hospitals, where I made some good friends. In 1978, along with some other Indian friends, we founded, AWIC women of India in Canada, with the mandate to integrate in Canadian society by showcasing our Indian culture to Canadian friends.

More than thirty years ago, I started producing Hindi shows at ATN for our community. I got an in-depth understanding of the dynamics of diverse culture. I understood the barriers and challenges of many non-English speaking seniors and new immigrants. I kept thinking to do something that could benefit our community. Keeping that in mind, I founded Arco International Languages.

2.      How did your association with ATN Association happen?

 My involvement with ATN goes back almost over thirty years. I have lots of regard for Dr. Shan and Jaya Chandrasekhar, whoare the proud owners of one of the Canada’s largest multi-media coverage,24X7 TV network.ATN has a new state of art broadcasting facility and magnificent building in Markham, having world class digital recording equipment,35 channels and broadcastingin 9 languages.

My association with ATN is purely voluntarily for the benefit of the community. As a Talk show host and associate producer at ATN, I took pride and have produced several educational, social, cultural, health and community programs. I had the opportunity to interview some of the world renowned leading personalities from arts, music and politics. Through my T.V. Talk show program, I conduct interviews of local service-providers about vital issues; deliver pertinent information for women, isolated seniors and newcomers to Canada.

3.      Tell us something about your social work that led to winning a QE-II diamond Jubilee award in 2012.

 Social work and volunteerism have come to me as gifts from my father. He is my inspiration, my mentor and my role model. He was a renowned Homeopathic physician, very compassionate, social activist and he contributed a lot to the community in India as well as in Canada. I always wanted to follow his footsteps. Also, my husband always encouraged and inspired me for humanitarian causes and I raised lots of funds for soldiers during India-China war and India-Pakistan war. Ialso sponsored many poor students’ education.

 After my arrival in Toronto, I immediately got involved in the Canadian society, by volunteering, participating and coordinating community activities and other social events. I am one of the founding member, past president and now Trustee of AWIC, Association of women India in Canada. I also volunteered as an assessment officer with multi-cultural department of TDSB and helped many new immigrant children by getting them placed in suitable classes.

4.     What in your opinion are the key needs of new immigrants today, and how do you think they can be addressed?

The key needs of new immigrants today are no different than they were in 20, 30 or 40 years ago. All new immigrants have to struggle, face lots challenges and hardships. If you are not finding jobs in your field or in your profession, try to get a survival job, to take care of your basic needs. Be patient, plan your strategy to achieve your desired goal. Be aware to the needs and demands of the settlement in new country. Build your social network and reach out to make friends, who can guide you. In Canada, there are many opportunities for new immigrants. There is a great support system, try to get access to lot of information and resources. Many social agencies like AWIC, SAFSS, Welcome centers are doing an excellent job in providing help and guidance, which are extremely helpful to new immigrants.

We immigrants have proven that we are far more successful when compared to many other communities. We all, who are well settled in this country, have social responsibility to guide new immigrants and become their role models.

5.      What are the issues immigrants need to be aware to integrate well in the Canadian society?

We should appreciate the wealth and diversity of Canadian society and be ready to embrace the challenges with full zeal and confidence by getting involved in mainstream community. We should be ready to accept, adjust andready for sacrifices to become successful. Be proud of your heritage and traditional values; maintain our cultural identity by sharing our values, rituals and customs with Canadians friends and start building relationships and social network.

 6.      How do you see your journey so far?

So far it has been extremely enjoyable, challenging and rewarding. As I mentioned earlier, I am very proud of my Indian heritage, my country of origin, my roots, convictions and philosophy. We should share our own rich heritage and culture with our fellow Canadians while holding onto our traditions and beliefs from back home. I am blessed that I am the first Indian woman, who launched the first Hindi talk show on ATN almost thirty years ago and that show is still going on. I also played a central role in numerous fundraising campaigns for various charities, and have received prestigious awards for public service. I am sure the future will be at least the same if not better.

 7.      How has Arco International languages grown over the years?

Today we are providing Interpretation and Translation services in more than 140 languages of the world and have a very comprehensive data base of highly educated, qualified professionals. It contributes to the Canadian economy by providing jobs to so many who are working with us as freelance interpreters and translators.

 8. Your vision for future.

I feel very positive and optimistic for the future. And I pray all mighty “Give me the strength lightly to bear my joys and sorrows. Give me the strength to make my love fruitful in service.” I want to work and helpseniors, women, underprivileged and physically challenged children. Through my T.V. show, I want to reachout thousands of ATN viewers with many more new programs. I have dedicated myself in improving the quality of life in communities across Canada and the reward gained through this type of work is much greater than one would find anywhere else. I get lots of satisfaction in doing so, I believe in “SEWA” volunteerism, social workare my strength.God willing, I will keep doing it, till I have the strength.

Samuel Getachew

 “Grassroots groups are the risk takers and innovators of the non-profit sector. Supporting them allows the pursuit of new ideas that have great potential to make an impact.”

 On the occasion of being the National Volunteer Week all across Canada – Ontario via the Honourable David C. Onley – Lieutenant Governor of Ontario – will honor nine outstanding youth with the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers – Ontario’s highest honor for youth. According to the Province of Ontario – the “honorees championed causes such as increasing access to education and community resources, enhancing safety in schools and increasing awareness of social issues”. Among the nine recipients is Mohsin N. Khan – Executive Director, Lead2Peace.

Generation Next interviewed this young man on his accomplishments:

 Congratulations on being chosen as the recipient of the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers. What does this honor mean to you?

I am honored to receive this award, because it is a reminder of the all hard work my colleagues and I have put into the community over the past five years. It showcases the impact of Lead2peace on youth, and further motivates me to continue working with the community.

Tell me about Lead2Peace? Your group started with the ambitious goal of motivating youth in Regent Park. Share with me your experience. 

 Lead2Peace has two main programs. The in-school leadership program consists of going into classrooms on a weekly basis and taking the students outside to learn about social issues first hand. Through this the youth are asked to explore the root causes of these problems. Then using the knowledge and skills they have gained through the program, the youth are asked to create a service learning project with a budget of $2,000 that will benefit their community by addressing the social issue of their choice. This gives them the opportunity to lead, and try out different ideas, creating the space for real innovation. The youth have done projects ranging from creating a massive garden shaped as a Peace sign to publishing a book on the impact of the Regent Park revitalization.

 The second program provides youth with a chance to learn the fundamentals of Taekwondo in their gym classes and local community centers. The program is designed to improve the fitness level as well as provide a medium to relieve stress and gain skills such as discipline, self-confidence, and control. This is something many of these youth would otherwise be unable to afford. The main reason for this program was to expose youth to martial arts without them worrying about the high cost. Through key partnerships, the program provides all the equipment necessary such as uniforms to create an authentic environment for youth. After a certain period of time, the youth test for a higher rank and belt.

 Lead2peace has been a work in progress, ever changing to better meet the needs of the community. Over the last 5 years, we have grown from a small group of friends to an organization that is widely recognized for its innovation. Looking back at our first year, the belief has not changed, which is that if you allow young people to lead, and give them the resources, great things happen. We have learned a lot, in terms of dealing with the complex workings of running an organization, as well as developing the time management skills to balance Lead2peace alongside school.

Why is it important to mentor and support grassroots groups such as Lead2Peace?

Grassroots groups are the risk takers and innovators of the non-profit sector. Supporting them allows the pursuit of new ideas that have great potential to make an impact.

In almost three years – the group has grown to be inclusive of older youth and has focused its efforts in to classrooms. Tell us about that?

 We try to expand our programs to as many youths as possible. To benefit more than just elementary students but high school as well. This is because to create change in a community, you need to impact as many demographics as possible. To do this we have created key partnerships that allow us to reach the older youth through in school and after school programing.

To young South Asian who may want to emulate such an activist journey, what advice do you have for them?

At the end of the day, key things to remember are;

  Always pursue your passion, that way work seems less like work and more like play

  Surround yourself with a good team of people who you can rely on

  Network as much as possible

  Try your best, but when it’s out of your hands, relax

‘It’s important to stay connected with our Higher Self’

 DIVYA KAELEY

 Bahi Krishnakhanthan is an enthusiastic motivation speaker, facilitator and psychotherapist. Her transpersonal and transformational approach to therapeutic counselling and a client-centred therapy help people deal with issues that prevent them from living a fulfilled life.

Bahi has been awarded the ‘2008 Caring Canadian Award’ by the Governor General of Canada, and the ‘2005 Woman Of Distinction’ in the Region of Durham among several high calibre women. She was also presented ‘2006 National Leadership Award’ from Canadian Federation for Business & Professional Women, for her exemplary leadership of improving the economic, political, employment and social conditions for women.

Bahi’s compassion and an upbeat attitude make her a great role model for many. In a conversation with Generation Next, she talks us through the several challenges she faced in Canada – cultural, language, gender and as a single parent – and the success story that she is today.

 1.   When did you come to Canada?

 I came to Canada in 1982 from Sri Lanka. I left Sri Lanka for better economic conditions and further my accounting career. I was surprised when I was selected by the Canadian government on “Merit Point system” and was issued “Landed Status” visa to come here.

 2.   You’ve been a single parent and a victim of domestic abuse. Tell us about your journey to being a motivation speaker, facilitator and psychotherapist today.

 I met someone here in Canada and got married within three years of being here. I came to Canada on “Merit Point System” all alone from Sri Lanka in 1982. My marriage lasted for 2 short years. In the first year, I had a baby daughter and she died. In the second year, I had my infant son and flee from my own home because of domestic abuse for our safety.

 It was difficult being a single parent without any family here. Having to support my infant all alone without any financial or other help was challenging. I returned to work within 3 weeks of delivering my infant son (after Caesarian surgery) to support us. During tough times, I was promoted in my accounting job to financial controller, became self sufficient and bought my own home, etc. I also met two missionary families who gave spiritual support and stood by me through the challenging times. It was Grace (unmerited favor of the Universe) was working in my life like everyone else.

 Somehow it appeared that the challenges seemed to continue. One winter snow storm day, I met with a life threatening car accident and lost my health. Though it took many years of rehabilitation therapy, my return to job with Canada Revenue Agency as a Corporate Tax Auditor was unsuccessful and I lost my job. I felt a great loss once again.

 My spiritual quest gave me much strength, a new direction and aliveness. I went to school and became a Spiritual Psychotherapist. I joined international speaking organization and was honored as Public Speaking Champion within short period because of my story. I also enjoyed taking volunteer leadership with non-profit organizations and it led me to receiving Governor General’s award, Woman of Distinction Award, National Leadership Award – for improving economic, employment, social and political conditions of women, etc. In fact, when I surrendered to the Universe – Life Force, my life took on a new direction and propelled me.

 3.   Tell us something about your initial days in Canada as a new immigrant. How did you sail through?

 I faced cultural, language, social, gender and other barriers as a new immigrant. Winter weather was also challenging in Edmonton, Alberta. However, my dreams were bigger than the barriers that I faced, which helped me to sail through.

I found mentors who helped me find success. I took risks to leave my City job in Edmonton to take a job in Ontario and moved. I found ways to integrate into the community. I joined recreational organizations and participated in new recreational activities. I joined non-profit organizations and volunteered in the community. I took evening and weekend courses to get my Canadian accreditation here.

 4.   What advice would you give to newcomers who face a tough time getting their degrees recognized and eventually getting their dream jobs? What are the qualities they should possess?

 It is important to stay focused in what they want. If their dreams are bigger than the barriers they are likely to succeed. Finding mentors can be helpful. Talk to other immigrants who have gone through tough times. In fact, I had additional challenges being a single parent, coming out of a bad marriage, living in fear, living alone, health challenges, etc.

 It is important for us to stay connected to our Higher Self (divine) through this process. We will get directions, comfort, meet right people, engage in right activities, be protected, etc.

  5.   Do you think the Canadian policies towards immigrants’ especially foreign trained professionals are fair?

 Some leave their country by choice and others leave out of necessity due to major disasters in their homeland. It takes time and patience to settle in a new country. This could be frustrating to some foreign trained professionals based on their profession. In most professions, the regulating body gives some exemptions to foreign trained professionals resulting in fewer courses to take. This was my personal experience.

 6.   How do you deal with immigrants who are frustrated when they are unable to find a foothold in Canada?

 Several cultural, immigrants, religious and other organizations did invite me to speak at their events. Schools and colleges also did invite me to speak at their special or regular events. I have shared my personal experiences, struggles, triumphs, etc.

 It’s through listening to their frustrations, strategizing their priorities with time lines, connecting with relevant organizations and groups, finding their core problems, reconnecting with their self, finding ways to nurture them through this difficult times, etc.

 7.   What in your opinion are the key needs of new immigrants today, and how do you think they can be addressed.

 I find the key issues are culture shock, language and social barriers and finding the right job. The new immigrants need to find the right support system through their cultural, social and other organizations to integrate into the community and finding hope in the Canadian system.

8.   Your vision for future.

 People realize their true identity by recognizing how they may have contributed through false concepts, beliefs, notions, conditioning, habits, etc. leading to a contracted life. This can lead them to finding the essence and living an expanded life.

Neha Karamchandani

I would like to empower the less fortunate by ensuring that all children receive an education. They are the leaders of tomorrow, today.

Neha Karamchandani is running for Miss World Canada 2013 Pageant. Holding a BA in Criminology/Human Rights and Equity studies from York University, pursuing a Masters degree is Journalism and frequently travelling between Canada and India, Neha Karamchandani belongs to a Hindu family from Northern India. Her father was a businessman and her mom works for the Federal Government.

She is a beauty on a mission. In her efforts to serve the global community, Neha Karamchandani has devoted her life to inspiring and motivating young women and empowering underprivileged citizens in the world.

In 2006, she was one of the only 21 students of the York Region District School Board (Ontario) selected for the International Cooperative Education program in Ecuador, South America, where she volunteered as an English teacher at an elementary school, while living with an Ecuadorian host family.

Then in 2011, Neha organized an event, “Do you want to be the next Bollywood Idol?” under the organization, Social Services Network of York Region to showcase local youth talent.

 She’s been a part of the Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of Toronto (Go Girls! 2.0 Program) and is currently involved with Lions Club International.

Her fluency in English and Hindi and her knowledge of French, Spanish, Bengali and Punjabi has earned Neha a lead role in an international film (Bengali).

Here’s what she has to say about her versatile career and multi-talents:

Why be in a beauty pageant with a degree in criminology?

It is important for a person to be multi-talented. Beauty pageants are generally presumed to be solely about “beauty,” however, I want to use it as a platform to bring awareness to my cause that involves my criminological background.

Do you think people look at beauty with a mission seriously?

 Yes, why not? Its not all about beauty, it is the personality and the passion for the cause , beauty is a plus point. It’s about being beautiful inside and out!

Do women have to use their femininity to attract attention to causes?

 No its not necessary and the biggest example is Mother Teresa. Though, it can be used as a plus point.

How do you define underprivileged’?

Underprivileged means people who are less fortunate than others for example by limited access to education and daily necessities of life. They may also suffer because of the caste system and special needs. Their human rights may be infringed upon, therefore making them underprivileged than the rest of society.

The federal government is merging CIDA with foreign affairs. It’s going to impact aid to developing South Asian countries. How do you feel about it?

It may disturb the humanitarian image of Canada as aid may be only provided to certain countries of political interest.

How do you identify yourself – Canadian or Indian?

I was born in Canada but inspired by my Indian roots. Most importantly, I am a multicultural individual.

Do you think South Asian community has come together as a community here in Canada?

 South Asian community in Canada is slowly coming together as differences still do exist.

What do you think are issues of young South Asian Canadians?

 The main issue I believe is that young South Asian Canadians struggle to find their true identity while trying to fit in with the Canadian culture.

One positive and one negative thing about the South Asian community?

Positive- strong heritage

Negative- Lack of Unity

Your opinion on Canadian multiculturalism when in fact only about 28 per cent visible minorities are represented in public service and 4 per cent in legal field.

 It’s up to the person to see the glass half full or half empty! We can call it an illusion or motivation to make a change.

What’s the benefit of knowing so many languages?

I can converse with people of different cultures and learn more about the wonderful things that the world has to offer!

An accomplished actress/model, dance choreographer, founder of dance company – how do you find time for all of this plus travelling plus a beauty pageant?

Time management & passion is key to achieving all your goals in life.

What would you like to change in the world?

There are many changes that I anticipate to see in society, however, I would like to empower the less fortunate by ensuring that all children receive an education. They are the leaders of tomorrow, today. And everyone should be equal no matter what race, religion, or gender they belong to.

• Your favourite TV personality: Opera Winfrey
• Your favourite TV show: Law & Order, Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Kaun Banega Crorepati
• Your favourite movie: Argo + Fashion (Hindi)
• Your favourite model: Cindy Crawford
• Your favourite actor: Leonardo DiCaprio, Shahrukh Khan & Rajpal Yadav
• Your favourite actress: Angelina Jolie, Rani Mukherjee &Priyanka Chopra
• Your favourite hobbies: Dancing, reading books, soccer
• Your favourite food: Hakka Chinese & Pasta
• Your favourite politician: Pierre Elliot Trudeau

www.nehakaram.webs.com

Have you been watching main-stream TV channels? Lately there have been quite a few talented South Asians making it into the mainstream media industry.

Of these, two young names are Raoul Juneja aka Deejay Ra and Dilshad Burman. Hosted by Dilshad Burman, V-MIX is a weekly, half-hour program that explores the world of urban arts and entertainment. Profiling recording and performing artists from the South Asian community in Canada and internationally, the series will feature music videos, interviews, music commentators, DJ’s, writers, stage artists, comedians and choreographers.

Prominent Toronto-based producer Deejay Ra is on the show every week, bringing viewers the latest music news updates.

Generation Next got up close with these two young talents from the South Asian community to know about them in-depth. The interview with them not only reveals their personalities but also how they see life and issues surrounding South Asian community:

• Please tell us a bit about you academic/family background?

My Dad’s side of the family comes from a business background, whereas my Mom’s side has a military and education background. So growing up I was able to see my Dad’s family very active in New York’s financial sector. I also was able to see the history of my Mom’s family in India’s military sector, along with their family now running schools in India. A love for the arts and a dedication to charity work was the common ground, so my studying Media at Western as well as being active in the Canadian charitable world seems like a combination of these backgrounds!

• Why showbiz?

I never got into Media thinking of it as showbiz, the typical American celebrity TV show was never of interest to me. My Media background started out in hip-hop which I always thought of as a voice for social change, as the art form originally was. Moving more towards the South Asian music scene and then my eventually being able to bring both worlds together through V-MIX has always seemed like more of a cultural commitment, to bring great multicultural music (and arts in general) to the forefront.

• Have you gone through the periods like we hear in interviews of celebrities like Amitabh that in the beginning no one was willing to give them work but they persisted and are legends now?

I think artists have to deal with a lot more rejection than Media personalities do, when it comes to Media personalities I think I’ve learned it’s more about putting your time in and not limiting yourself. When I was researching universities to attend, I wanted to make sure I could host a college radio show wherever I chose. The universities in Toronto had waiting lists of over 1000 people to host shows on their college radio stations, so I chose to go to Western where I was offered my own show the moment I contacted them. I’ve still had to do many different Media related jobs over the past ten years to get to where I am today, but I’m really happy to see many of my other TV colleagues who put similar time in also reaping the benefits.

• What’s your family’s reaction to your profession choice?

My family was always very supportive but when I started out, I was one of the only prominent South Asian Canadians in the global hip-hop scene, so I think they knew it would be difficult for me to make my mark doing something that hadn’t been done before.

• Is it a profession where you can make money?

I feel the Media and Arts professions are ones where you make very little money starting out, but if you’re lucky enough to get the right opportunities, you can make a lot of money doing what you love. We’ve seen that in the success of colleagues of mine like Russell Peters and Panjabi MC, who I knew when they were only starting to make their mark on the world.

• Is there a fair representation of visible minorities in channels like City TV, OMNI etc?

Canadian channels like Citytv and OMNI Television have a fantastic representation of visible minorities both with content and staff – even fifteen years ago when I moved back to Toronto from New York, I grew up watching their talent like Monika Deol and Karen Johnson who were very inspirational and groundbreaking for those times. In addition to our focus of South Asian artists on VMIX, we love to highlight partnership between visible minority artists of all cultures. Plus there’s amazing diversity even amongst the South Asian talent we see on our Citytv and OMNI channels today, representing all aspects of the South Asian diaspora!

• What in your opinions are issues of young South Asian professionals?

I notice young South Asian professionals who were born and raised in Canada like myself are constantly striving to find a balance between their Canadian and South Asian cultures, but it’s very possible if you’re authentic to yourself.

• What kind of pressures do you feel as professionals?

I didn’t realize until recently how much competition there is amongst professionals, I always had the philosophy that there’s room for everyone in the industry and there’s no need to directly compete with anyone if you’re original at what you do.

• Which are popular clubs for South Asian youth to visit?

I never was a club DJ, I always stuck to DJ’ing on the radio so I would only visit clubs when Canadian hip-hop artists I wanted to see were performing. I feel most South Asian youth in Canada are listening to the same music the average Canadian youth is listening to, so they are normally attending the same popular clubs as everyone else.

• How do you feel about Toronto’s night life?

I think Toronto has always had a phenomenal night life and concert scene where you can generally see artists and DJ’s from so many different genres performing in the same city in the same night, so it’s great that so many people can enjoy the night life while still having different tastes.

• In spite of growing number of South Asian artists, very very few have really made a mark. What’s the reason in your opinion?

The “contemporary” South Asian music scene as I call it is still a brand new industry especially in North America, before V-MIX we didn’t even have a dedicated TV show in North America supporting contemporary South Asian music. Apache Indian in the 1990′s was really the first South Asian urban music artist to make a mark globally, and now in the 2000′s we’ve seen M.I.A. and Jay Sean achieve huge international successes. The common denominator with all of these artists is they are all from the UK, where they have had outlets like the BBC Asian Network for over a decade. We believe that V-MIX is one of the first big steps to seeing more South Asian artists from North America make a mark like they deserve to.

• Do you feel generation gap between your parent’s and your generation?

I feel there is always a generation gap but artists like Raghav have helped bridge the gap between our generation and our parents’ generation, doing music for today’s youth but incorporating classic Indian songs into their mixes, so both kids and parents can enjoy together. We saw the same with Abhishek Bachan rapping in “Bluffmaster” which helped a lot of parents understand better what hip-hop music was all about, even though what they saw was a Bollywood version of it!

• What and who do you turn to when depressed?

Life is like a boxing match – there are always high points and low points, you can’t win the fight without being hit a few times! When I’m feeling at a low point I just try to stay busy working until the rough time passes, as it always does.

• Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Ten years ago I was getting my start in the industry in a big way, interviewing celebrities like Russell Peters on the radio and artists like Panjabi MC on television. I feel it’s a blessing I’m doing the same thing now ten years later, helping promote a whole new generation of artists while also paying tribute to those who helped pave the way for the hip-hop and South Asian music scenes we have today. I would be happy if ten years from now I’m still involved in the TV industry in any capacity, whether in Canada or internationally.

• What would you like to change in the world?

I feel I get the chance to change the world every day by working with a network like OMNI Television, that is dedicated to promoting the spirit of multiculturalism across Canada and around the world.

DIVYA KAELEY

  “Canada is sufficiently liberal and forward looking. But at the same time, acquiring Canadian experience is a must for orientation and induction in the Canadian work system. The Canadian government, however, needs to address the ‘brain waste’ that some highly qualified immigrants have to undergo for some time before settlement. I am glad the government has taken care of it in the immigration policy announced on 16th of Jan 2013.”

 Aseem Malhotra, owner director Golden Path Financial and partner director Maple Gold Financial Inc, came to Toronto on 31^st May 2009 from Delhi, India. An MBA, Aseem worked in the field of media in marketing and advertising in India – a job in media he was truly passionate about. Spanning over 14 years, from 1995 to 2009, from a humble start as an executive ($3000 eq PA) to becoming VP Marketing and then quitting this cushy job ($100,000 PA ), Aseem’s journey took a turn as he decided to come to Canada with his family — a one and a half-year- old kid, a nine-year-old boy and his wife Rashmi.

Says Aseem, “Canada offers unlimited opportunities for employment, for starting up businesses, for investment and self development. It is one of the richest countries of the world with a stable economy, strong multicultural ethos and a corruption-free environment. I believe

Canada offers what no other country in the world has - technical excellence in all fields of endeavour, modernity with spiritual values and money! I came to serve Canada and to provide best schooling and education in the world to my children. We came here for a brighter future, and financial freedom.”

 Aseem worked with McDonalds for survival for a year (2009–2010), an experience that was “both rewarding and fruitful”. This resulted in his decision to make a switch over to Financial/ Life Insurance industry for which he acquired requisite qualifications in Canada. “I started with Sunlife Financial and worked for about a year to get formal training with one of the leading financial companies in Canada. Soon I realized that it was time to be independent. I chose financial industry as my core business, and started my own independent brokerage Golden Path Financial,” he says.

Talking about his job, Aseem says that it’s the toughest job to sell in the world. It involves special and different interpersonal communication than selling ads in media but “my experience in media helped me deal with the needs of the business. Life insurance is all about meeting people and serving their insurance and financial needs with credibility and humility.”

In Aseem’s opinion, Life Insurance does not require connecting with the right people in the industry but connecting with the right people in the public at large and educating them and convincing them about the need for insurance for their financial needs. “Initially it can be disappointing but like any field, success requires hard work, dedication and good sales skills. You have to sell yourself. Compensation is tied to your personal effort and commitment.”

Currently Aseem is focused on developing his enterprise in life insurance, mortgage, finance and real estate — his new venture Maple Gold Financial Inc with his partner Satya Agarwal.

New immigrants should not only make themselves aware of the laws in Canada, but should also follow them, he points out. “It’s is like heaven for those coming from developing countries like India. The Canadian government is inclined towards serving the needs and requirements of its people.” Not only this, the work environment here is result-oriented and progress-friendly, he adds.

Is Canada open enough to newcomers? Canada is sufficiently liberal and forward looking. But at the same time, acquiring Canadian experience is a must for orientation and induction in the Canadian work system. “The Canadian government, however, needs to address the ‘brain waste’ that some highly qualified immigrants have to undergo for some time before settlement. I am glad the government has taken care of it in the immigration policy announced on 16th of Jan 2013,” he answers.

Aseem dreams of opening a business and a social venture in India in the coming year. “There is no question of going back. But certainly we’ll give back to our country,” he says. “India is the most ancient land and I am proud to be born there. My dream is developing a global institution catering to the financial, and real estate needs of individuals and nations for alleviating housing, education and health problems.”

The budding entrepreneur attributes his success to the continuous support of his wife Rashmi, his children and his family back in India. “Rashmi stood with me against all odds and worked for casual survival jobs to keep me going. After three years of patience and dedication, she landed with a job in her own field of information & technology,” he signs off.

“There are about a million Muslims in Canada, and the growth rate is about 13% a year. Halal consumers are estimated to be about 7% of Canadian population by about 2031 — GTA is the most populated, followed by Quebec. Engro foods is available everywhere – be it FreshCo, Nofrills and even ethnic retail markets.”

By Staff Writer

Zanaira Mirza’s family moved to Canada 11 years ago from Lahore, Pakistan. She went to York University and studied business and marketing. While going to the university, she also worked full time. She initially worked for a company in a lower level administrative position and looked after accounting and conflict resolution.

Zanaira has been working for Engro Foods for the past nine months, and is now the assistant brand manager with Engro Foods.

Zanaira was applying for jobs for 8 months before landing a job at Engro Foods. She did not have hardcore marketing experience, and often went to recruiting agencies. “I was told that they need to have the key words in the resume,” she says. “I came to a point where I did not know what to do. But I chose to be more proactive. I went to the websites that connects young adults for internships with mainstream employers. I emailed directly to the CEO of the company and expressed my feelings. She said that the role was already fulfilled, but she connected me to somebody who may be interested Rumeet Toor — one of Canada’s top 100 most powerful women. That opened my first door into the marketing field. I met up with Rumeet and she offered me an opportunity to intern with her. I learnt so much from her. I also went to LinkedIn and applied for jobs. This was how I landed up with a job at Engro. But most of my classmates have settled for something more generic.”

Sharing her story of finding employment, Zanaira says, “Companies need to look at the bright side of youth and a fresh perspective in youth. They need to look at students as employees.” At the same time she does not let youth go off easy suggesting, “We need to look at co-op opportunities seriously; these can be a medium for you to be at a higher position.”

In Zanaira’s opinion, both employers and those seeking employment especially the new graduates need to be proactive; as far as students are concerned they need to be more realistic in their approach.

Zanaira says that members of our community can play more active role in helping young graduates. If they know someone, they can help people. “In my instance, my mother said that you should be thankful that you have a job. The mindset here, is that you live from pay cheque to pay cheque. But I didn’t want to settle for anything less.”

How does Engro foods contribute to multiculturalism? “It operates from Mississauga. It brings more opportunities to connect with people from different cultures- African, Irish, Pakistan etc,” Zanaira says. “Right now the company has about 20 employees. We are an ethnic brand – for example we have items like kebab. But we do have mainstream products as well — like cutlets. I see a lot of Chinese picking up our brand.”

Zanaira says that the Halal category is definitely growing. “There are about a million Muslims in Canada, and the growth rate is about 13% a year. Halal consumers are estimated to be about 7% of Canadian population by about 2031 — GTA is the most populated, followed by Quebec. Engro foods is available everywhere – be it FreshCo, Nofrills and even ethnic retail markets.”

Zanaira last went to Pakistan last in 2008. Talking about her home country, she says that “we are far more responsible here and approach our goals differently”. The lifestyle is different in both the places. “There are a lot of perceptions about Pakistan.” She studied at an English medium school and lived in a mainstream culture. “I led a blessed life there. Extremism in Pakistan is blown out of proportion. I do agree with the bombing news, if you visit Karachi or Lahore. But that is everywhere. Turn on CP24 and there is news that somebody is killed. Whenever I get a chance I try to dispel these myths. If you get upset, you prove they are right. But if you respond, you can clarify their concerns.”

Talking about structural discrimination in Canada, she says people have changed now. “But there can be some discrimination. The cultures we come from, we are trained to control our emotions.”

Finding the Mr. Right is another step in life: “In today’s time sometimes it becomes a little challenging for me as a girl, but I’ve far greater purpose in life. For me, I don’t work to live, but live to work. There are girls who prefer to marry late. It depends on the choice you have. In my case, I have a choice to do that,” Zanaira says.

What’s her vision for future in the next ten years: “Married with three children,” she laughs. “I want to do my MBA, and work hard. It’ll open up more opportunities. Engro foods has done well, our sales have tripled over the year. I’m proud to be part of the company that thinks out of the box.”