Cover Stories

SERGEANT TERRY PARMAR POLICING: A ROAD SELDOM TRAVELLED

Meet Vancouver Police Sergeant Terry Parmar, who discovered his calling to serve the people of Vancouver while working and volunteering at a community recreation centre. From a single conversation, he was drawn into the world of the Vancouver Police Department-a path that allowed him to make an impact on a far greater scale. Today, he encourages community members to see policing not merely as a job, but as a meaningful and rewarding career.

DR. SANJAY MEHRA: CLINICAL DIRECTOR & CONSULTANT TRANSPLANT SURGEON

Sanjay Mehra, Clinical Director & Consultant Transplant Surgeon at the Department of Transplant Surgery, Liverpool University Hospitals Foundation Trust, UK, was born in Amritsar, Punjab, India and was raised in an education-focused family that encouraged him to pursue a professional career. Parental guidance and motivation from his elder brother, Dr. Rajan Mehra helped him choose a medical path.

RONIT JASSAL – FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION

Ronit Jassal is a second-generation entrepreneur who proudly carries forward the legacy of Jassal Signs, a business well-recognized in the South Asian community, particularly among small business owners. What sets Ronit apart is not merely that he inherited the family business—it is the bold and enterprising spirit with which he has taken it to new heights at a remarkably young age.

BALTEJ SINGH DHILLON – THE TRAILBLAZER: OVERCOMING ADVERSITY AND REDEFINING HIS IDENTITY

Baltej Singh Dhillon’s name would be etched in gold if there were a list of trailblazers. From being the first turbaned student in his Canadian high school to winning a landmark legal battle that secured his place as the first turbaned Sikh in the RCMP, his journey is one of merit, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to service. Recently, he made history again by becoming the second Sikh senator in the Canadian Parliament.

ROBIN DHIR – BUILDING ROOTS AND TRADITIONS AS A COMMUNITY LEADER

For many families, community is not just about where they live but also about the roots they grow and the traditions they maintain. Drishti Magazine enjoyed meeting Robin Dhir and learning about his family’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming established community members. He is a well-respected community leader, businessman, corporate director, and philanthropist sought after for his deep connections locally and abroad and strategic advice.

AJAY PATEL – “DIVERSITY IS STRENGTH”

“A culture is strong when people work together—for each other. A culture is weak when people work against each other—for themselves. Success is a team sport.” This wisdom encapsulates the fibre of the honest, authentic, and humble nature of Ajay Patel, President and CEO of Vancouver Community College (VCC).

GARRY SANGHA: COMMUNITY FIRST

Renowned Surrey-based entrepreneur Garry Sangha is redefining philanthropy as more than just “writing cheques” but as a collective effort to drive social and economic progress.