What is your initiative?

My initiative seeks to create a culturally sensitive space for intergenerational support and empowerment, addressing the mental health and addiction support needs of aging Punjabi women in Canada. I will be collaborating with Sahelian to introduce a program for elderly Punjabi women and their families, focusing on addiction support and education.

What is your connection to your chosen community?

As a second-generation immigrant from Punjab, my initiative is tied to the community that raised me, and aided me to complete my academic work in rich and diverse ways. I have undertaken research in addiction and the Punjabi diaspora community during my undergraduate and master’s degrees. I worked as a Broken Punjabi facilitator with Asra the Punjabi Alcohol Resource, where I facilitated groups for substance affected youth. My personal, professional, and academic experience have lead me to this project.

What are you looking forward to this year?

I am looking forward to holding a grandmother’s hands, dancing, and maybe even singing. I hope that we can find joy while unpacking addiction.