By Sonia West
Raj Hundal, the Senior Director of Employment Planning and Program Development at Progressive Intercultural Community Services (PICS), has spent over a decade creating opportunities for people in his community. His journey reflects a deep sense of purpose, driven by values instilled in him by his hardworking parents and a commitment to helping others achieve success through meaningful employment.
Born and raised in Vancouver, BC, Raj now resides in Burnaby, where he balances his work, family life, and dedication to the community.
Raj’s deep respect for his family is evident throughout his journey. His father, who emigrated from India in the 1970s, started his career as a welder for CN in Saskatchewan. “My dad worked hard, sponsoring his brothers to come to Canada and raising my younger brother and me. He always told me, ‘If you try, you will succeed.’ It was simple advice, but it’s stuck with me my whole life. He taught me never to give up, and that hard work would always pay off,” Raj explains.
His father eventually left CN and became a union organizer. This involvement in politics and worker rights advocacy would influence Raj’s career. “My dad became one of the first Punjabis to work in a government crown corporation—WorkSafeBC, known as WCB. He climbed his way up to vice-chairman, all without much formal education. His story of perseverance has always been inspiring to me.”
Raj’s equally hardworking mother worked for over 40 years at Braddon Private Hospital in Vancouver. “She started there in 1974 and retired only about six years ago. Imagine being in the same company for 40 years! I deeply admire her work ethic and dedication,” he proudly says.
Raj’s career path is as impressive as his parents’ work ethic. His passion for politics and helping others began early, with a love for social studies inspired by a high school teacher. “I wasn’t a big science guy, but my social studies teacher, Dr. Moir, changed my perspective. He made me see things differently, and that stuck with me.”
Raj’s passion for public service led him to pursue an undergraduate political science and sociology degree at UBC and, later, a law degree from the University of Manchester in the UK. After spending time abroad, he returned to Vancouver and dove headfirst into local politics. In 2008, he ran for and was elected to the Vancouver Park Board, serving alongside then-Mayor Gregor Robertson under the Vision Vancouver banner.
“One of the most significant achievements at the Park Board was helping pass a no-smoking bylaw for Vancouver’s parks, beaches, and playgrounds. It was controversial then but overwhelmingly supported by the community, especially as concerns about wildfires grew.”
Another notable achievement was establishing the Komagata Maru Memorial in Coal Harbour. “We wanted to recognize the injustices that happened in the past, and that memorial stands as a testament to the importance of remembrance and progress,” Raj explains.
While at the Park Board, Raj also joined PICS, managing various employment programs aimed at helping newcomers integrate into Canadian society. “I started in 2008 with public legal education workshops for newcomers, helping them understand their rights as tenants or employees. It was rewarding work, and I’ve been with PICS ever since.”
Since 2012, Raj has been deeply involved in WorkBC through PICS, eventually rising to his current role as Senior Director of Employment Programs. His mission is simple: to help people find employment and, in turn, empower them to support themselves and their families. “A job gives a person confidence. It puts food on the table, helps them network, and provides the stability needed to buy a home one day. At PICS, we’re here to provide those stepping stones.”
Raj’s leadership style is rooted in trust and respect, which he holds dearly. “I’m lucky to work with a team that believes in what we’re doing, and I have a boss, Satbir, who gives me the freedom to act on new ideas. It’s a trust thing that goes both ways,” he says. Raj also emphasizes the importance of treating all staff with respect, from the CEO to the receptionist, whose role he believes is the most important in shaping clients’ first impressions of the organization.
Raj’s message to young people is both practical and encouraging. “Don’t take things for granted, and always have a plan. But also recognize that it’s okay to deviate from that plan. The path to success isn’t always straight—you might go from point A to B, then B to F, and that’s okay. The key is figuring out what makes you happy and pursuing it passionately.”
As Raj looks toward the future, his vision remains tied to helping others. “I want to see PICS continue to grow and provide services to the community for years to come. That’s what makes me happiest—helping people and supporting the community.”
