BC’s South Asian Women Join Forces to Elevate, Inspire & Empower the Next Generation

Be the Light Society (BTLS), a non-profit organization focused on inspiring, empowering and elevating the next generation of South Asian women and girls through education, leadership opportunities, and connection to community, is proud to announce our goal to donate twenty $2,500 scholarships to deserving and in-need girls in BC.

Be the Light Society’s Diwali Gala Event Shines the Light on South Asian Women’s Excellence While Fundraising for Girls In-Need

VANCOUVER, BC: Oct. 23, 2023 – Be the Light Society (BTLS), a non-profit organization focused on inspiring, empowering and elevating the next generation of South Asian women and girls through education, leadership opportunities, and connection to community, is proud to announce our goal to donate twenty $2,500 scholarships to deserving and in-need girls in BC.

Education. Leadership. Connection.

Be the Light Society, co-founded by accomplished entrepreneurs Rajbir Grewal and Amneet Athwal, both serving as Executive Members, along with a leading female in the construction and development industry, Jothi Garcha, represent a formidable force for positive change. BTLS’ core mission is to support South Asian women and girls through educational programs designed to instill financial independence and provide scholarships. The society is committed to creating a secure and safe environment where South Asian women can connect and cultivate meaningful relationships that propel individual growth. Furthermore, Be the Light Society takes immense pride in recognizing and highlighting the exceptional leadership and excellence of South Asian women, nurturing a profound sense of identity, pride, & community belonging.

South Asian Women Break New Ground Despite Barriers

Karen Dosanjh, Tech Marketing Executive & Be the Light Society Advisory Board Member says, “Despite many barriers, we are starting to see South Asian women breaking new ground to rise to new heights in various industries and professions across Canada. We are excited to bring powerhouse women of all backgrounds, experience, and influence together to serve as mentors to the next generation of South Asian women entering university or just starting out their careers.”

Karen says, “It’s time that we harness our collective influence to pay it forward to the next generation of South Asian women and girls, so we continue to rise and realize financial equity in Canada. We are thrilled with the enthusiastic backing of South Asian women-owned businesses and brands that are partnering with us to create a better tomorrow for girls facing societal, cultural and gender barriers.”

According to a 2023 report by Catalyst, South Asian women and other racialized groups of women earn 55% less than white men in Canada. Be the Light Society is focused on leveling the playing field for South Asian women and girls in Canada by advocating for this traditionally marginalized group in our society.

Be the Light Gala: Nov. 2, 2023

South Asian women representing all industries and professions will come together to celebrate Diwali at the 2nd Annual Be the Light Gala taking place on November 2, 2023, at the Fairmont Pacific Rim at 6:00 pm. Proceeds will go towards funding twenty $2,500 scholarships that will be presented to highly deserving and in-need girls in BC in June 2024. The BTL Scholarship applications will open on Nov. 2 at https://bethelightsociety.ca. Karen adds, “We are fully committed to donating multiple scholarships for highly deserving South Asian girls in our community who need this financial support to achieve their dreams.”