Born and raised in a traditional Punjabi family in the Fraser Valley, Rimmi grew up as a curious child, always asking questions, speaking up, and stepping into new experiences without hesitation. “I’ve always been drawn to people and purpose, and I naturally found myself saying yes to opportunities that allowed me to connect with others and contribute in meaningful ways.”
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that not everyone will understand or accept your leadership style, especially as a woman. Leadership doesn’t have one look or one voice.
That mindset eventually led Rimmi to leadership at a young age and, later, to community-focused roles, including serving as a Crime Prevention Coordinator, President of a CUPE local, and a BCAA-certified Child Passenger Safety educator. “I also continue to volunteer with the Abbotsford Hospice & Grief Support Society, when opportunity allows.” She further reinforced her passion for bringing people together, sharing knowledge, and contributing to something bigger than herself.
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that not everyone will understand or accept your leadership style,” she says, “especially as a woman. Leadership doesn’t have one look or one voice. Authenticity has always mattered more than fitting a mold. Leadership is rooted in purpose, staying grounded in your values, and creating space for others to grow alongside you.”
If there’s one thing I wanted women and girls to remember, it’s to stay true to one’s voice, take up space without hesitation, and trust that one’s presence and ideas matter!
Rimmi has also been fortunate to be surrounded by inspiring women, each of whom walks a different path with strength and purpose, especially the women in her family. “Watching them navigate societal expectations, responsibilities, and sacrifices with resilience and grace shaped my understanding of leadership long before I ever held a title.”
Some of her most vulnerable moments came from trying to navigate all the roles she carries at once: mother, daughter, daughter-in-law, wife, volunteer, and leader. “At times, I questioned whether I was giving enough to any one role. Over time, I learned to let go of the pressure to do everything perfectly and to trust my own way of showing up. I realized that authenticity is far more powerful than perfection and that all these roles together ground my leadership”.
To her, mentorship and leadership are deeply rooted in openness, honesty, and growth. “Mentoring isn’t about shaping someone into a version of yourself. It’s about walking alongside others, sharing experiences, and supporting them as they discover their path. Becoming a mother deepened that belief and reminded me that everyone has their own timing, voice, and journey.”
Through her experiences, she came to understand that confidence continues to evolve. “Confidence has always been part of who I am. I grew up in a home full of ideas, questions, and opinions, and I was never shy about sharing them. I learned by stepping into unfamiliar spaces, taking on leadership opportunities, and navigating challenges that pushed me outside my comfort zone.”
Women cannot wait for permission to lead, she emphasizes. “Visibility matters. Using your voice, speaking up in decision-making spaces, and staying present are powerful acts of leadership. Strong support systems, mentors, and networks play an important role in building confidence and resilience.”
She leads with intention. “I create space for people to share their expertise while ensuring alignment, accountability, and a shared sense of purpose. Resistance exists in every profession, and women continue to face barriers. How we respond to that resistance with resilience, integrity, and commitment says far more about leadership than titles ever could.”
Her life centers on being a mother, wife, and daughter. “I’ve learned that balance is fluid and rooted in my being intentional, present, and realistic about my time and energy.”
If there’s one thing Rimmi wants women and girls to remember, it’s to stay true to one’s voice, take up space without hesitation, and trust that one’s presence and ideas matter!
“One of the women who shaped me most is my mom. She gave me hope, strength, and unconditional love through every challenge our family faced. Her quiet strength, sacrifices, and humility continue to inspire me daily.”
One of the greatest joys in her life is being a mother to her twins. Parenthood has become a journey of learning, growth, and discovery for her. “I love watching them grow into their authentic selves, knowing they are also watching me pursue my own passions, such as volunteering in the community or stepping onto a TEDx stage. I’m proud to see them take on leadership roles, challenge themselves, and build the confidence to step outside their comfort zones. Motherhood, for me, has become a shared journey filled with unconditional love, connection, learning, and endless warm cuddles! These are the moments I cherish most!”
