Let's Recognise Our Unsung Sikh Heroes
MEET THE AWARD FINALISTS!
Excellence In Business and Enterprise
Daizy Kaur Maan
Daizy Kaur, founder of Australian South Asian Centrer (ASAC) and Brown Women Comedy, is a trailblazer addressing stigmas and pressures affecting Sikh and South Asian women. Her impactful work includes producing the largest comedy platform for South Asian women in Australia, with 31 shows reaching nearly 3000 audience members across 3 cities in 2024. As co-founder of ASAC, her projects, like Soul House, support women in domestic violence, creating substantial social change.
Deepa Pasricha
Deepa launched a Social Enterprise 10 years ago, to empower all Australian Senior citizens. She is the founder of the largest publication in Australia for Senior Citizens and has been recognised and supported by the Prime Minister. The Guidebook is read by Over 1 million Australian Seniors every year. Her vision is to improve the lives of our ageing community and fight social isolation through raising awareness, advocacy, expos and health camps. Committed to her cultural heritage, Deepa created a Seniors Empowerment program for the Gurdwara, a Punjabi school and a refuge for Sikh women facing domestic violence.
Harman Singh
Harman runs Shuddh Dairy, which is an award-winning Indian dairy company in Australia known for its high-quality products and commitment to the community. They’ve achieved impressive growth (over 35% annually) and garnered recognition, even reaching the Prime Minister in 2018. Despite challenges like COVID, they persevered and are now looking to export globally, bringing a taste of India to a wider audience.Excellence in A Professional Field
Dr Sukhwinder Singh Sohal
Dr. Sohal’s extensive contributions to respiratory medicine research have been instrumental in showing the dangers of smoking and vaping on lungs, and the increased risk for COVID-19 in smokers. He has published over 158 studies and holds leadership roles in respiratory organizations worldwide, advising the WHO and influencing lung health policies.
Robyn Kaur Saranah
Robyn Kaur Saranah, is a high-achieving leader in the financial and not-for-profit sectors. She has broken barriers for women and cultural minorities, holding executive positions in major banks throughout Australia and New Zealand including being the General Manager and Head of CBA Private Bank . She is passionate about financial empowerment and social justice and is now leading Good Shepherd Australia to deliver impactful reforms for women, girls, and families
Satvir Mand
Satvir Singh, has been a Director at COX Architecture, has over 35 years of experience leading transportation projects inc the Western Sydney International Airport, as the Director of the Project Design team . He grew COX’s rail team from 20 to 70 and played a key role in designing Sydneys major transport nodes – Sydney Metro City, Southwest and Central Station, Wynyard Station Upgrade, Sydney Metro Network and Chatswood Transport. He awas also the senior architect for Kuala Lumpur International Airport. His Sydney Metro contributions and focus on user experience solidify his impact. As the first Sikh architect to achieve such milestones, he’s a champion for diversity and mentors aspiring architects.
Young Australian Sikh Of The Year
Ashleen Khela
12-year-old Ashleen Khela, Australia’s youngest Sikh author, wrote “17 Stories” to raise funds for charities after witnessing poverty in India. Overcoming parental doubt, she raised funds herself to publish the book that spread awareness about social issues. Ashleen’s story inspires others, showing age is no barrier to making a positive impact.
Devraj Singh Grewal
“Devraj is a successful cyclist who has won numerous gold medals in ACT and NSW Championships. He is self-driven and overcame challenges to compete at a high level. Notably, he is the only Sikh cyclist in Australia at this level. Beyond racing, Devraj is passionate about community service. He founded the Ride for Unity event to promote understanding between different faiths. He also mentors young cyclists and advocates for a more inclusive cycling community.”
Jasmine Kaur Renny
Jasmine has been recognised as Queensland’s 2023 Young Volunteer of the Year by Volunteering Queensland and the Governor of Queensland. As a dedicated youth advocate, she is appointed in Advisory Committee and Expert Panelist roles for state reports and national government campaigns regarding community service. Aside from her professional aspirations, she is a Lived Experience Recovery Speaker across Metropolitan tertiary hospitals, promotes cultural diversity in mental health discussions and serves the homeless community.Excellence in Arts, Culture of Music
Gurpreet Singh
Gurpreet Singh, a renowned Perth-based musician and tabla player, has shared the stage with Indian classical legends like Ustad Dilshad Khan, Ustaad Tari Khan, Pt. Purbayan Chatterjee and many more. He founded the Indian School of Performing Arts, teaching over 150 students and fostering cultural exchange. His significant achievements include winning the National Open Youth Festival in India and releasing a tabla CD with T- Series.
Harjot Singh
Harjot Singh, founder of KH Brothers Films, is an acclaimed filmmaker and actor based in Sydney. With over 20 international awards, including Best Thriller at the Singapore International Short Film Festival, his impactful projects tackle social issues like drug abuse and female discrimination. His film “Khawab Kaisa Bhi” premiered at the NSW Parliament, exemplifying his dedication to community-oriented storytelling.
Parvyn Kaur Bennett
Parvyn is a contemporary Australian-Sikh bilingual singer and dancer, renowned for her debut solo record ‘Sa’, nominated for ARIAs ‘Best World Music’ album of 2022. She mentors young Sikhs, secures grants for innovative projects, and contributes to the community through organizations like Khalsa Aid. Her performances at major festivals and appearances on TV showcase her unique blend of musical influences and dedication to her art.Excellence In Community Service
Dr Sunita Siddhu Dhindsa OAM
“Dr Sunita Dhindsa is a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her service to the Indian community. Despite facing challenges as a migrant, she has achieved success in her career and made significant contributions through her volunteer work.
Dr Dhindsa has held leadership positions in various Indian community organisations and advocated for their rights and welfare. She has championed causes related to domestic violence, women’s issues, and cultural integration. Dr Dhindsa has also worked to promote understanding of Sikhism through initiatives like presentations and organising events.”
Gurshminder Singh
Gurshminder Singh (Mintu Brar) is a social worker and advocate for the Punjabi community. He founded organisations to help international students from India settle in Australia and promote Punjabi culture. His radio show, newspaper, and Youtube channel provide a platform for the community and his work has inspired many to migrate to Australia. He’s numerous awards including the Governor’s runner-up Award three times in South Australia.
Kulwant Singh Dhillon
Mr. Kulwant Singh Dhillon is a pillar of the Tasmanian Sikh and broader communities. He played a pioneering role in promoting Sikhism in Tasmania, transforming his home into a makeshift Gurdwara for decades, and he’s also donated land for a permanent temple in Launceston. His leadership extends beyond his faith – he co-founded a Gurdwara in Hobart, and actively participates in interfaith dialogue. He has volunteered as a social worker, helped establish an old-age home and also organise camps educating on family violence, relationships and gurmat.Australian Sikh Woman Of The Year
Harinder Kaur OAM
Harinder Kaur co-founded the Harman Foundation, a charity aiding homeless people, seniors, domestic violence victims, and children. She tirelessly supports immigrants, especially Sikh elders, and empowers young leaders. Her work bridges the gap between the community and local government.
Kittu Randhawa
Kittu Randhawa is a champion for migrant women, especially those facing domestic violence. She founded the Indian (Sub-Continent) Crisis and Support Agency, the first of its kind, and works as a specialist caseworker. Kittu fights for legal reform to protect victims and educates communities to recognize dowry abuse. Her advocacy work extends to boards and committees, making her a respected leader.
Santosh Kaur
Santosh Kaur, a clinical entrepreneur, founded SmartHeal, an award-winning app that uses AI to measure and manage wounds. This innovation improves wound care by replacing manual methods with data-driven recommendations, potentially impacting patient outcomes.Excellence In Agriculture
Jasminder Kaur
Jasminder Kaur is a resilient farmer in Hillston, NSW, managing a 500-acre property, wherer she’s also formed a Sikh community and established a Gurdwara. Jasminder actively participates in fundraising for cancer awareness, supports disadvantaged children, and provides infrastructure for local schools. She assists new migrants with licenses, employment, and translations, and rescues animals, exemplifying the principles of seva (selfless service).
Balwinder Singh
Balwinder Singh, an internationally acclaimed Agricultural Scientist, has made significant contributions to agricultural productivity and sustainability. He has developed technologies to address food security, climate adaptation, soil health, and water conservation. Leading a System Modelling group at DPIRD, he has created decision support tools used by thousands of farmers, increasing yields and profitability. His pioneering research continues to benefit global agricultural communities.
Amarjit Singh
Amarjit, a primary producer in Queensland, has significantly impacted the agricultural sector by successfully managing banana and sugarcane farms despite challenges like the Larry and Yassi cyclones and the Panemia diseases. His produce supplies major markets in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. Amarjit is also recognised for his community service, notably helping establish the Innisfail Gurudwara and receiving awards for his contributions in local sports and Sikh games.Excellence In Sports
Harjas Singh
Harjas Singh, a talented cricketer, has consistently impressed with his batting skills. He represented New South Wales and Australia in various U-19 tournaments, including the World Cup final where he top-scored and led his team to victory. This achievement, along with his dedication and passion for the sport, has made him a role model for aspiring cricketers, particularly within the Sikh community.
Ranjit Singh Khera
Ranjit Singh Khera has been volunteering for over 20 years, commentating and organising Kabaddi tournaments across Australia. He significantly contributes to the sport’s popularity by engaging audiences and attracting younger generations. His service to both sporting and cultural communities is unmatched.
Tanveer Sangha
Tanveer Sangha is a standout young cricketer known for his leg-spin bowling and dedication. He plays for Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL) and has impressed with his wicket-taking abilities. His achievements include playing for various Australian age-group teams and earning recognition as a rising star. Beyond cricket, Tanveer inspires young players through coaching and is a role model for Sikh and culturally diverse Australians.
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