Ontario South Asian Health Magazine featuring Dr. Satdip Binning - The Functional Health Institute by sahealthmag

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Healing at the Root:

HOW

DR. SATDIP BINNING

IS REDEFINING HEALTH CARE IN CANADA

Special Feature: Sonia Boparai

The Fit Kitchen

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PUBLISHERS NOTE

Welcome to the Ontario edition of South Asian Health Magazine—a publication dedicated to celebrating the inspiring professionals, changemakers, and visionaries shaping the future of health and wellness across Canada and beyond. In every issue, we bring together voices that uplift our communities, share knowledge, and inspire progress toward healthier, more connected lives.

In this issue, we are proud to feature Dr. Satdip Binning on our cover—a true pioneer who is redefining health care in Canada. Through his leadership at The Functional Health Institute, Dr. Binning is transforming the way we approach wellness by focusing on healing at the root. His commitment to integrated and preventive care empowers patients to take charge of their health and serves as a model for a more compassionate, effective system of care.

We’re also thrilled to showcase a special BC feature on Sonia Boparai, founder of The Fit Kitchen, whose passion for nutrition and authentic South Asian flavors has sparked a wellness movement across communities. Sonia’s journey from breaking diet myths to helping others embrace a sustainable, joyful approach to food is both refreshing and deeply inspiring.

As we celebrate this exciting issue, we’re delighted to announce the South Asian Health Magazine’s expansion into Quebec and California—marking a new chapter in our mission to connect and empower South Asians through health education, storytelling, and community collaboration. The energy and engagement from our readers continue to inspire us to grow and reach new horizons.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our readers, contributors, and partners who have made this journey possible. Your unwavering support drives our passion and vision forward. With this momentum, we are thrilled to share that South Asian Health Magazine will be further expanding globally by the end of 2025, bringing our platform to new audiences across the United States, United Kingdom, India, and the Middle East. As we continue to grow, our mission remains the same—to celebrate health, culture, and community while creating meaningful conversations that bridge borders and inspire change. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. The best is yet to come.

HOW DR. SATDIP BINNING

IS REDEFINING HEALTH CARE IN CANADA

What inspired you to establish the Functional Health Institute, and how has your personal Journey shaped your approach to functional

so I thought), working out, and doing everything I was told to do, but I was getting sicker, not better.

The turning point came when I realized that the answers I was searching for weren’t going to come from treating

The Functional Health Institute was born out of that mission to help people reclaim their health by working with their bodies, not against them. We don’t chase symptoms. We uncover root causes. We d on’t use one-size-fits-all protocols. We honor each person’s unique physiology, history, and story to create a bespoke healing journey.

How do you define “functional health” and how does it differ from conventional medical models in terms of patient care?

To me, functional health is all about health creation. It’s about asking why the body is out of balance, rather than just figuring out how to suppress symptoms. It’s about working with your biology, not overriding it.

Functional health sees the body as a connected, intelligent system where symptoms in one area often have roots in another. That means we don’t just look at where it hurts, we look at why it’s happening in the first place. Is it gut dysfunction? Hormonal imbalance? Mold exposure? Nervous system dysregulation? Toxicity?

We dig deep and tailor the plan around your unique biology and history.

gives people what they’re truly seeking: a path back to their energy, vitality, and quality of life.

That’s where functional health shines. Instead of a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all solution, we guide people through a personalized process of restoring balance, supporting their body’s natural healing mechanisms, and empowering them to become active participants in their own transformation.

Your practice emphasizes “root cause”. Can you walk us through how you work with a patient?

At the Functional Health Institute, our process isn’t about chasing a diagnosis — it’s about discovering why a person’s body is struggling and what’s standing in the way of their healing. We’ve built our model around three key pillars: Foundations, Details, and Results.

We don’t chase symptoms. We uncover root causes. We don’t use one-size-fits-all protocols. We honor each person’s unique physiology, history, and story to create a bespoke healing journey

Now, it’s important to say that conventional care plays a vital and instrumental role in our healthcare system. It’s the most effective and efficient model for acute health issues — trauma, infections, surgeries, and emergencies. It saves lives. But when it comes to chronic conditions — the kind that leave people saying, “I just don’t feel like myself” — our current system often falls short. It’s now overwhelmed by the growing burden of chronic illness, yet rarely

We start with the foundations, because without a strong foundation, nothing else sticks. This means guiding our patients to build a lifestyle that supports health creation, not just symptom management. We address how they eat, not just what they eat. We dive into sleep quality, nervous system regulation, mindset, movement, environmental stressors, and even the health of their relationships. We teach them how to align their daily habits with a healthier version of themselves, where it matters most: in their home and routines.

Once we’ve built that foundation, we move into the details. This is where we use functional lab testing to uncover hidden stressors that often go overlooked.

These might include mold mycotoxins, stealth infections via stool, environmental toxins, heavy metals, genetics, or chronic inflammation, and so much more. These are things we can’t see, touch, or feel, but they are powerful forces that quietly erode a person’s health.

Finally, we bring the two together to deliver results by layering personalized insights from lab testing onto a life that’s now ready to heal. This is where real transformation happens, because we’re not just handing someone a protocol, we’re giving them a process that honors their biology, their story, and their uniqueness.

How do you integrate conventional medicine with Functional Medicine?

Functional health integrates seamlessly with conventional care by filling in the gaps — it doesn’t compete, it complements. While conventional medicine is excellent for diagnosing and managing disease, functional health goes deeper to understand why dysfunction is happening in the first place and how to restore balance across the whole body.

Think of conventional care as putting out a fire, while functional health focuses on rebuilding the house, making it stronger, safer, and more resilient than before. But rebuilding takes intention. That’s why the client plays an active role in learning,

implementing, and staying engaged in the process. Because lasting healing isn’t something done to you — it’s something built with you.

Many South Asians in Canada face a higher risk of chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic syndrome. What unique factors do you see contributing to these trends, and how does the Functional Health Institute tailor its care to meet the specific needs of this community?

It’s true that, as South Asians, we carry a statistically higher risk for metabolic conditions, but it’s not just about genetics. The two biggest health concerns in our community are type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, both rooted in poor metabolic health. What I see most often is a growing mismatch between our cultural identity and our modern life style.

As South Asians, we come from a rich heritage steeped in spirituality and practices deeply connected to nature, community, and purpose. These traditions weren’t just beneficial; they were functional, supporting digestion, nervous system balance, and emotional regulation.

But in today’s fast-paced world, we’ve drifted away from that wisdom and traded it in for the high-pressure, convenience-first lifestyle of the West. Reclaiming health means more than taking supplements or tracking numbers. It means reconnecting to a deeper purpose and building a life that supports health at its roots — in how we eat, sleep, move, think, and relate to others.

That’s why we created the Inspired Living Metabolic & Lifestyle Reset Program , designed specifically to target the root causes of these chronic conditions.

Through this program, we guide you in:

nBalancing blood sugars and hormones so energy and mood stabilize naturally.

nLowering inflammation to protect heart health and improve circulation.

nShedding 20–40 pounds of excess weight in just 6 weeks (and keeping it off) through sustainable, enjoyable changes.

nRestoring digestive health and deep, restorative sleep so your body can repair each night.

nImplementing powerful stress-regulation techniques like breathwork to calm the nervous system and support healing.

We’ve seen incredible transformations — not just in lab results, but in energy, confidence, and quality of life. We’ve had type 2 diabetics reverse their condition entirely, with their primary care physicians taking them off medications. We’ve seen women in perimenopause finally lose stubborn weight after years of frustration. Patients who once struggled with constant brain fog now enjoy mental clarity and sharpness, along with renewed energy and passion for life. And while supplements and testing have their place, the real magic happens when people learn how to live in a way that consistently supports metabolic health for the long term.

At the Functional Health Institute, we also weave cultural wisdom into the healing process. One powerful example is teaching proper breathing techniques, a foundational practice for calming the nervous system and shifting the body into a healing state. Many of us, myself included, have unknowingly developed dysfunctional breathing habits that keep us stuck in fight-or-flight mode, limiting the body’s ability to repair and restore. Relearning how to breathe is often one of the first, and most transformative, steps.

And perhaps most importantly, we acknowledge that healing is an active process. We can’t expect these complex issues to resolve passively. The patient is the most important factor in the healing process. It takes aligned effort — effort that becomes joyful and sustainable when it’s rooted in your unique purpose and identity.

The

Functional Health Institute integrates advanced diagnostic tools. Can you share how these tools enhance the accuracy and depth of your assessments?

At the Functional Health Institute, we use advanced diagnostic tools not to chase a diagnosis, but to uncover why the body is no longer expressing health the way it should.

These tools go far beyond basic blood work, they allow us to detect hidden stressors like mold toxins, gut infections, nutritional deficiencies, and chronic inflammation before they manifest as diagnosable disease. We look at things that conventional testing often misses, such as how your body is functioning on a cellular level, how it’s metabolizing nutrients, managing toxicity, or responding to chronic stress.

This gives us a much deeper, more precise understanding of what’s truly going on beneath the surface, and it allows us to personalize every part of the healing process. Rather than guessing or taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we work with real data that reflects the uniqueness of your biology and your lived experience.

Are there any new therapies or technologies in functional medicine that you’re particularly excited about right now?

What excites me most right now isn’t just a specific test or supplement; it’s the way we can now see what’s really going on beneath the surface and teach people how to influence it themselves.

The game-changer for me has been the ability to assess nervous system regulation, specifically through heart rate variability (HRV).

HRV is a measure of how flexible and resilient your nervous system is. It’s not about how fast your heart beats — it’s about how well it adapts. A higher HRV means you’re more balanced, adaptable, and in a better state to heal. A chronically low HRV tells

us that the body is stuck in fight-or-flight, making healing almost impossible, no matter how many supplements you take.

That’s why I love using HeartMath and other HRV biofeedback tools in our programs. They allow us to teach our clients how to improve their own nervous system tone through breathwork, coherence training, and emotional regulation. It’s incredibly empowering to help someone see that they have the ability to shift their biology in real time.

At the Functional Health Institute, we’re not just handing out protocols; we’re teaching clients how to understand their bodies, interpret feedback, and make intentional changes that support healing at the deepest level.

Because the truth is, healing doesn’t come from a pill. It comes from alignment — in biology, in behavior, and in belief. And HRV is one of the clearest mirrors of that alignment.

Nutrition, sleep, and stress management are foundational pillars in our programs because they directly impact the body’s ability to heal, regulate inflammation, and maintain overall balance.

To help clients make sustainable lifestyle changes, I focus on education, self-awareness, and small, manageable steps that fit into their daily lives. I emphasize tools they can implement themselves— such as tracking heart rate variability to better understand their stress response, mindful breathing, and gradual dietary shifts so that change feels achievable, not overwhelming. Ongoing support, accountability, and celebrating small wins are key to transforming these habits into lasting improvements.

Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of integrative health care in Canada, and how do you see your work contributing to that shift?

I believe the future of health care in Canada will be shaped by a powerful shift, one where people move from being passive recipients of care to active

participants in their own healing journey. If we don’t engage the individual as the driving force behind their health, we’ll never see the life-changing outcomes that are truly possible.

My vision is to help people reclaim their power and reconnect with the incredible healing potential built into their bodies. I want to move the conversation away from “What pill do I need?” and toward “What is my body trying to tell me, and how can I support it?” This shift transforms health care from a reactive, symptom-chasing system into a proactive, lifeenhancing one.

When people learn that true healing requires intention, selfawareness, and a willingness to make meaningful changes — in how we live, eat, sleep, breathe, move, and think — something remarkable happens. They stop feeling broken or limited by a diagnosis, and they start stepping into their own greatness.

It’s no surprise that you often see celebrities adopting these concepts early on. People like Tim Robbins, Kim Kardashian, Dana White, and so many others are embracing a root cause, Functional Health approach to ensure they can not only feel their best but also look and perform their best for years to come. This level of proactive care is something I believe should be available to — and embraced by — everyone, not just those in the public eye.

Through my Inspired Living Metabolic and Lifestyle Reset Program and my Essentials 1-on-1 Functional Health Program, I’m guiding people through transformations that often exceed what they thought was possible, reversing chronic disease, restoring energy, lifting brain fog, and reigniting joy for life.

Beyond my programs, my mission is to keep spreading this message through ongoing education on social media and, soon, a podcast that will serve as a hub for learning, inspiration, and empowerment. I envision a ripple effect where these ideas become more mainstream. And Canadians of all ages start to see health not as something they “manage,” but as something they actively create and protect every single day.

Because when patients become true partners in their care, health care stops being about just living longer… and starts being about living better.

We Are Excited To Announce

The South Asian Health Magazine Is Launching In The United States

FEATURING

DR. VARUN GANDHI

FROM LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Dr. Varun Gandhi is a storyteller, community builder, and cultural advocate passionate about keeping Indian traditions alive for the next generation. Varun is deeply committed to creating spaces for connection. From organizing largescale community festivals like Uttarayan and Gujarati Unity Festival to building platforms such as Eventmor, he brings people together to celebrate identity, share stories, and strengthen bonds across generations.

As a father, he finds inspiration when his son was born, which drives his mission to make culture fun, meaningful, and accessible for kids.

Through his children’s books—spotlighting Indian role models and values like seva (selfless service) and empathy—he helps young readers see themselves reflected in stories that nurture both pride and compassion.

Beyond nutrition and cleansing, Dr. Gandhi advocates for a holistic lifestyle that includes mindfulness, emotional balance, and conscious choices in daily living. He encourages clients to listen to their bodies, practice gratitude, and adopt habits that align with both physical health and inner peace. His teachings inspire people to move away from quick fixes and instead cultivate sustainable rituals that nourish the body and spirit every day. Through his programs, coaching, and speaking engagements,

Dr. Varun Gandhi empowers people to take charge of their health journeys with knowledge, compassion, and purpose. His mission is to guide others toward a state of abundance in health—where wellness is not just the absence of illness, but the presence of energy, joy, and holistic harmony. By bridging the gap between cleansing, mindfulness, and conscious living, Varun continues to transform lives and promote a deeper understanding of what true wellness means.

Dr. Varun’s coaching focuses on guiding individuals and organizations in health and wellness related industries with branding, product strategy, marketing, and event production. He also emphasizes abundance and wealth training, teaching clients how to increase their value, command appropriate pricing, and leverage their personal story for maximum exposure.

At the heart of everything he does is a simple belief: culture should be celebrated, stories should be shared, and when we pass these values on with love and connection, we create a stronger, more vibrant community for the future.

Owner/Artistic Director of

Dance Priya Nykan from

BRIDGING CULTURES THROUGH MOVEMENT

San Francisco, California

@studiomikomi

“The cold cement bit into the soles of my red-painted feet, and the air buzzed with anticipation as I prepared to step into the spotlight for my debut performance in Bangalore, India.”

For Priya Nykan, that moment marked the beginning of a lifelong journey blending tradition, rhythm, and identity. Born in Canada to Indo-Fijian parents and now based in California, Priya is the visionary Owner/Artistic Director of HipHop-Natyam Dance Academy—a vibrant fusion of Bharata Natyam and Hip-Hop that celebrates both her South Asian heritage and her Western upbringing.

Married and a proud mother of four, Priya wears many hats: dancer, choreographer, paraeducator, and certified Yoga and Pilates instructor. Over the past 15 years in California, she has nurtured her passion for movement into multiple ventures, including her own dance fitness studio under HipHop-Natyam LLC.

“Through the fusion of Bharata Natyam and Hip-Hop, I’ve created a unique cultural expression—HipHop-Natyam—that reflects my identity as a multicultural artist,” Priya explains. Her choreography honors the discipline of Bharata Natyam—precise footwork, expressive gestures, and storytelling—while infusing the rhythm and freedom of Hip-Hop. This evolution helps Western audiences connect with ancient Indian art forms through a modern, relatable soundscape. Outside the studio, Priya continues to inspire movement as a Pilates and Yoga instructor at Club Pilates and Yoga Six in Brentwood, and at Diamond Hills Sports Club and Spa in Oakley, California. Her mission is to build a thriving dance community that bridges cultures and strengthens South Asian American identity through the universal language of art and movement.

Breaking Diet Myths: A South Asian Foodie’s Journey to Wellness with The Fit Kitchen

What inspired you to start The Fit Kitchen and how did your cultural background influence your approach to health and wellness?

It was a combination for the love of food and wanting to stay healthy. I’m a total foodie at heart, and in the past, I falsely believed if you wanted to maintain a healthy shape or physique, it meant cutting out foods you love to eat, especially things like roti or aloo parathay. Coming from a South Asian background, these foods were what I ate growing up. So, I started first cooking for myself and started The Fit Kitchen to share my recipes so others could enjoy them too. Part of starting the Fit Kitchen is also to break the negative diet culture which can be misleading.

Balancing a demanding career as a full-time Assistant Deputy Wardenfor BC Correctionswith running The Fit Kitchen must require a lot of discipline. How do you manage both roles, and how has your experience in law enforcement influenced your approach to health and wellness?

Sometimes, it can be challenging. But both supplement each other and have only helped increase my discipline. Not only in this field, but any field, having a positive outlet is very important – and there’s no better outlet than a healthy lifestyle and routine. Over time, I learned to prioritize both and make it work like a healthy relationship, perhaps that’s what’s kept me going so long in this career to where I am now.

The gym is my outlet for my mental and physical health. But more importantly, the foods I eat and what I’m putting into my body. As a Nutrition Coach, how we treat our body – both inside and out – has a direct impact on how we manage stress, illnesses, and overall wellbeing and mental health.

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In your role as anAssistant Deputy Warden, you’re likely exposed to highpressure situations. How do you maintain your mental and physical health in such a high-stress environment, and does this experience influence the type of wellness products and services you offer at The Fit Kitchen?

One word – the gym. The gym is my outlet for my mental and physical health. But more importantly, the foods I eat and what I’m putting into my body. As a Nutrition Coach, how we treat our body – both inside and out – has a direct impact on how we manage stress, illnesses, and overall wellbeing and mental health. My experience is to show people that you can do this with a full-time job that’s high stress – there’s always a way to make it fit. Part of the services I provide in the Fit Kitchen is personalized Coaching that’s catered to each person’s individual lifestyle. What works for me, may not work for you – therefore keeping that in mind, I cater to the individual needs and work directly with them to improve all aspects of their life.

Food and health play such a critical role in South Asian communities. How does The Fit Kitchen cater to both traditional flavors and modern nutritional needs?

Indian food – is some of the BEST! I’ve started by taking some of my favorite childhood dishes and incorporating them into healthy meals that you can enjoy without sacrificing flavor.

This means making some healthy swaps and tweaking recipes to give you a wellrounded recipe that not only you can enjoy but will also support your fitness goals as well. If you follow me on Instagram – you will see I eat a lot of parathay lol.

How do you ensure the food you serve is both healthy and sustainable? Can you share some of the specific ingredients or techniques you use?

It really depends on the dish – but incorporating Protein is my first step in any dish I create. Protein is, in my view, the Super Macro. By adding more Protein – you can significantly support weight and fat loss, feel fuller longer, build muscle, boost metabolism, and it supports the immune system.

So I start with seeing how I can boost the Protein in any dish I create – then work on the other macros to create balanced meals.

What are some of the most popular dishes or meals at The Fit Kitchen that you love to share, and what makes them stand out in terms of both flavor and health benefits?

Oh gosh! Definitely my parathay with raita. By making some simple swaps, I can enjoy a full meal for about 440 calories with over 40 grams of protein and it hits the spot every time. – one of my personal favorites too. But really, most of my dishes have been well received by many. I feel very fortunate to have such a positive response.

Icanenjoyafullmeal for about 440 calories withover40gramsof proteinandithitsthe spoteverytime.–one ofmypersonalfavorites too.Butreally,mostof mydisheshavebeen wellreceivedbymany. Ifeelveryfortunate tohavesuchapositive response 6 7

In today’s society, there’s a lot of pressure to achieve a ‘beach body’ or a certain standard of physical appearance, especially as summer approaches. How do you navigate the conversation around body image and insecurities, both personally and through your business at The Fit Kitchen? What message would you like to share with people who may feel overwhelmed by these unrealistic standards?

I have said it before and will say it again – I am completely against the terms “beach body” or “bikini body” etc. I feel there’s so much negative diet culture on social media that really messes with people’s mentality about how you are supposed to look and I am

completely against it. For anyone I work with and having these conversations, my goal for anyone is to be able to look in the mirror and be happy with what you see back – no matter the shape and size. The scale is just a number, it doesn’t matter. What matters is how much energy you have, how you feel when you look in the mirror, your overall happiness, and mentally knowing you are in a good place.

You’ve created a brand focused on healthy living. What does a typical day in your life look like, and how do you prioritize your own health amidst your busy schedules?

I always start with a healthy breakfast of Oatmeal and Egg whites – it my absolute favorite.

But my routine is generally the same whether I’m at work or on days off. I prioritize my sleep, wake up and have a healthy breakfast, make time for the gym and or meal prep (depending on the day). If I am working, I make sure to pack all my food and snacks for long shifts, if I am on a day off, then I make sure to meal prep so I am prepared for the week. But it’s all about balance and making things fit. Some days can be busy, but for the most part, because I enjoy cooking – it doesn’t feel like work.

What does the term “health” mean to you, and how do you integrate it into your daily life, both personally and professionally?

Health to me means having a good balance, not restricting foods, and listening to my body. While for the most part, I maintain a great balance between work, prepping, gym, and my lifestyle – but I also enjoy a glass of wine with friends, or spending time with my pets and loved one. There’s a saying that food is fuel – I believe it should be fun too.

Looking ahead, where do you see The Fit Kitchen in the next 5 years? Are there any new projects or expansions you’re excited about?

Truthfully… I really haven’t’ thought that far. I’d like to tell you that I’d love to see myself up there in followers, or podcasts, but I’m really just enjoying the ride. I get genuinely excited when people tell me I’ve helped them in some way, or they love my recipes! I’m still basking in that wonderful positivity. But yes, I would like to see my business grow and I would like to help people understand that you don’t need to eat chicken, rice, and broccoli just to lose weight, or give up carbs, or fast 16 hours a day. I want to raise the standards for bodies and that they don’t have to look the way they do on Instagram. Everyone should feel they are entitled to wear a bikini at the beach, and eat aloo parathay on Sundays. And that’s the message I’m slowly trying to spread.

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We Are Excited To Announce The South Asian Health Magazine Is Officially Launching In Montreal,

AS THE FEATURE COVER STORY DR. SHUVO GHOSH

Dr. Shuvo Ghosh is a dedicated developmental pediatrician whose clinical, academic and research work centres on supporting children, youth and families in navigating some of the most complex challenges of growth, behaviour, identity and wellbeing. He obtained his undergraduate degree in Biology and Hispanic/Italian Linguistic Studies at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, followed by his medical degree from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. He then completed his residency in Pediatrics at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., as well as rotations and research at University of Hawai’i - Mānoa and the Kewalo Marine Mammal Research Laboratory in Honolulu, HI. He subsequently pursued a fellowship in Developmental-Behavioural Pediatrics at the Montreal Children’s Hospital at McGill University in Montreal, QC.

In his current roles, Dr. Ghosh serves as Director of the Developmental Pediatrics Program at McGill University, within the Division of General Pediatrics. He co-directs the Gender Variance Clinic (GVC) at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, where he is the medical lead of the Brain, Development, and Behaviour Clinical Network. He is a

Quebec With

co-director of the community-based Meraki Health Centre which focuses on marginalised populations, where he has helped to pioneer clinical and research work at the intersection of child development, gender identity, and health equity.

Dr. Ghosh’s research interests span various areas including: nutritional influences on development, issues affecting language acquisition, the pathways of gender development and variance, infant soothing and crying behaviour, the ethics of access to developmental interventions,as well as the psychophysiologic underpinnings of brain development and behaviour. Among his published works are explorations of the communication between pediatricians and psychologists in ADHD, and measures of psychological distress following paediatric critical illness. He is deeply committed to working collaboratively with children, their families and communities in the framework of whole person health care: a holistic approach to caring for others. He sees hisdaily interactions not simply as clinical work, but as an ongoing conversation about how we care for ourselves, our children and society more broadly.

Beyond the clinical and academic spheres, Dr. Ghosh brings a creative and human dimension to his practice: he speaks 11 languages in varying degrees of fluency, is a writer of poetry, narrative non-fiction and fiction, and as a musician he leads his own Montreal indie-pop band, Hearts Underground.

Empowered Voices: Celebrating the Resilience and Achievements of

Asian Women of Winnipeg

Can you tell us about the founding of Asian Women of Winnipeg and the mission behind it? What inspired its creation?

Asian Women of Winnipeg (AWOW) was founded with a mission to empower Asian women by providing a platform for leadership, cultural connection and advocacy. The inspiration came from recognizing the need for a community where Asian women could connect, share experiences and support one another in overcoming challenges unique to their identity. The organization’s roots lie in a belief in the power of community and the importance of fostering resilience and confidence in women, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to society.

Sharan Tappia (Founder & President of AWOW)

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What are the core values and goals that drive AWOW's work in the community, and how have these evolved over time?

“AWOW’s core values are that we believe in Mutual Respect, Diversity and Equality” Over time, these values have evolved to address the changing needs of the community, incorporating a stronger focus on youth engagement, recognition of accomplished Asian women in Manitoba, mental health awareness and crosscultural collaboration. The organization aims to amplify the voices of Asian women, foster leadership and ensure a sense of belonging in Winnipeg’s diverse cultural landscape.

How does AWOW define "empowerment" for Asian women in Winnipeg, and what specific programs or initiatives do you offer to support this?

Empowerment for AWOW means creating opportunities for Asian women to thrive socially, professionally and culturally. AWOW achieves this through mentorship programs, leadership workshops, cultural events and advocacy campaigns. For example, the organisation started with hosting Mother’s Day celebration, after one year we decided to host, “International Women Day” celebration where we started recognising outstanding achievements of women of Asian origin annually. This year we are celebrating our 10th celebration of this day. The number of nominations we have been receiving is tremendous. Later on we decided to host one cultural event called “Lohri Mela” to celebrate birth of baby girls. We did not stop there as we took on another initiative, “Education Series” and focused on women’s physical, mental and spiritual health. Hosting this educational series involved bringing women experts from various fields and providing opportunities for our members and non-members to learn and make better health and life decisions.

How has AWOW impacted the lives of Asian women in Winnipeg? Can you share any personal stories or success stories from participants?

When we first started Lohri Mela, not many families were celebrating the birth of their daughters and now after so many years more families come forward to celebrate the birth of their daughters

AWOW has helped numerous women find their voice, establish careers and build strong community networks. Indeed, I feel that AWOW has inspired, encouraged, motivated and provided the confidence for many women to achieve their potential and attain greater heights as well as to pursue their dreams. When we first started Lohri Mela, not many families were celebrating the birth of their daughters and now after so many years more families come forward to celebrate the birth of their daughters. Similar thing with Int. Day, every year we get so many nominations for outstating women that sometime it takes our award committee two to three hours to choose the awardees. Stories like this highlight the ripple effect of empowerment—when one woman thrives, her success positively impacts her family and the broader community, which in turn inspires others to reach out to the stars.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by Asian women in Winnipeg, and how does AWOW address these challenges?

Asian Women in Winnipeg often face challenges such as cultural barriers, under representation and difficulty accessing resources. AWOW addresses these issues by providing culturally tailored programs, hosting events that celebrate diversity, by networking with other Asian organisations to share and exchange ideas as well as advocating for policies that support equity. By creating safe spaces for dialogue and offering mentorship, AWOW helps women overcome these barriers and achieve their potential. AWOW works diligently to bridge the gap between decision makers and grass roots.

How

does AWOW

foster cross-cultural understanding

between Asian women and other communities in Winnipeg? What role do you see AWOW playing in promoting cultural inclusivity?

AWOW fosters cross-cultural understanding by organizing events that invite diverse communities to participate, such as the annual Lohri Mela (performs from other cultural organisations participate) and guest at International Women’s Day celebrations comes diverse background and organisations, educational events where we bring speakers from other communities as well. These events celebrate shared values of community and collaboration while showcasing Asian heritage. AWOW hosted a multicultural event, dedicated to MB150 (150 year birthday of Manitoba) where fifteen plus community organisations participated and showcased their culture through traditional dances, cultural displays and food. AWOW is the only organisation which has showcased it’s role in promoting inclusivity lies in being a bridge that connects cultures, encouraging mutual respect and understanding.

What role do leadership and mentorship play within AWOW, and how does the organization support the development of future leaders among Asian women?

Leadership and mentorship are at the heart of AWOW’s mission. AWOW reflects the multigenerational household dynamic where we have our advisory board – to whom we always seek guidance and our youth council where we provide opportunities to our youth so they can dream big without any limitations, develop their public speaking skills, learn to host and deliver successful events by planning and organising.

The organization supports future leaders through structured mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and leadership workshops. By connecting experienced professionals with aspiring leaders, AWOW ensures that knowledge and inspiration are passed down to the next generation. Indeed, our succession planning and generation of future leaders begins with our youth council designed to not only engage youth, but to instill our core values, which we sincerely believe they will carry forward.

AWOW has been a powerful voice for advocacy—what key issues are you currently focusing on, and how can the wider community support these causes?

Current advocacy efforts include promoting gender equity, supporting immigrant integration, and addressing accessibility and mental health stigma within the Asian community. The wider community can support these causes by attending AWOW events, volunteering, and amplifying AWOW’s message through social media and partnerships.

Pamela Rebello, Advisory Chair & Sharan Tappia, Founder & President

How does AWOW engage with other organizations, both local and international, to amplify the voices and issues of Asian women? Are there any partnerships or collaborations that you’re particularly proud of?

AWOW collaborates with organizations such as the Asian Heritage Society, Manitoba Interfaith Immigration Council, Mood-disorders, India School of Dance and India Canada Cultural and Heritage Association. One notable partnership was with ISD, where we co-hosted, a dinner honouring Asian Trailblazers and recipients of MB 150 award called, “A Salute to Manitoba” which opened activities in the province, after Covid, with the Lieutenant Governor, being present. AWOW has helped with Fundraising for Women Shelter, Siloam Mission, Welcome Place, Cancer Care Manitoba and support of the Ukrainian Community, and further enriching the community fabric.

What kinds of community events or programs does AWOW host throughout the year, and how can people get involved or participate?

AWOW hosts a range of events, including the Lohri Mela in January, International Women’s Day celebration in March and networking meetups throughout the year especially in month of May to celebrate Asian Heritage. On top of that, every year we raise funds for women shelter or Siloam mission. People can get involved by attending events, volunteering, or becoming members.

Looking forward, what are some of the upcoming initiatives or goals for AWOW in the next 5-10 years? How do you see the organization growing?

Over the next decade, AWOW aims to become a cornerstone organization in Manitoba, known for driving systemic change and empowering thousands of women. AWOW plans to:

 Expand its education and mentorship programs to support and uplift each other because when one woman rises, we all rise.

 Bridge the gap between seniors & youngsters, decision makers and grass roots.

 Create a safe space for our seniors where they can spend their retirement years in family environment and not feel isolated or trapped in the senior homes.

What

would you say to young Asian

women who are interested

getting

involved with AWOW or who want to help make a positive difference in their communities?

I strongly believe that it is our responsibility to build bridges for the next generation—to ensure that young women and girls see their potential, believe in their power, and know they are capable of achieving greatness. I want them to know that your voices, representation and contributions matter. You can join the organization anytime. AWOW offers a space where you can grow, lead and make an impact. Join our youth council, become a member. Together we can empower each other, dream bigger, aim higher and break every barrier in our way, celebrate our heritage and create a brighter future for generations to come.

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Mamta’s Lovely Mustache

is a unique book that helps children address bullying and overcoming fear by believing in themselves.

Sometimes, the most fascinating part of a book is the story behind it. For me, this book is deeply personal—an account of my own healing journey behind the scenes. It’s not just a story for children, but a reflection of my experiences and the resilience I discovered along the way. This book has been a lifelong dream. Ever since I was a young girl, I promised myself that one day I would write it. What I didn’t anticipate, however, was that when the time finally came, I would face an unexpected challenge—a mild traumatic brain injury left me unable to read or write. What makes this book so special is its message—it’s more than a story. It teaches children about self-love, selfawareness, and cultivating the courage from within. By helping children understand their worth and strength, this book offers tools to combat bullying and build confidence. These lessons are not just for the playground but for life.

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My memory became my greatest ally. Despite my limitations, I used it to piece together my ideas and, over time, I gained the skills to read and write again. I transitioned from editing in my mind to editing on paper, a process that felt transformative.

Storytelling is a beautiful way to reclaim and rearrange the narrative you’re in and change the outcome of your experience.

Storytelling also illustrated to me the power of creativity and healing.

About the Book

Mamta is so excited for her first day of grade three! But when her classmates start to whisper and laugh in the line for recess, Mamta wonders if she’ll ever fit in. With some help from her Ma, Mamta learns to celebrate who she is in a confident and sparkling way. As Mamta encourages her classmates to shine bright and share their differences, she gains self-confidence and makes a new and unexpected friend. The book is available on: www.pujatheauthor.ca Amazon www.indigo.ca

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Puja Suri

Puja Suri is a Canadian Certified Counselor, Mind and Body Coach and Children’s Yoga Instructor. She has a passion for inclusion and has spent many years advocating for people with disabilities. In 2016, she was awarded the Certificate of Appreciation by Vantage for her valuable contributions within her community. Puja is the founder of Seva Girl, a fundraising-based initiative that supports organizations that educate and empower women and children. Her love for self-acceptance is incorporated in Mamta’s Lovely Mustache, which is based on her life, but with a fun twist.

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In 2015, Dr. Randhawa founded Shining Star Productions Manitoba, a non-profit organization that promotes the talent and skills of youth and young adults through pageants and talent showcases. She currently serves on the Board of Governors of the Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology and previously served as a Board Member of the Manitoba Centennial Centre Corporation. Dr. Randhawa actively supports the community by sponsoring events, contributing to charities, and volunteering with various organizations. Her community leadership reflects the same values that guide her immigration practice: helping individuals discover opportunities, reunite with their families, and build meaningful futures in Canada. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she was recently awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

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