South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM) is a month-long celebration in Canada that aims to recognize and highlight the contributions of South Asians to Canadian society. This celebration takes place during the month of May and is an opportunity to showcase the rich cultural diversity, history, and heritage of South Asians in Canada.
During SAHM, various events, activities, and initiatives take place across the country to celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of South Asian Canadians. One such initiative is the annual poster and panel discussion organized by CASSA, which brings together South Asian-Canadian trailblazers to share their experiences and insights.
The poster and panel discussion serves as a platform to showcase the contributions of South Asian Canadians in various fields, such as health, politics, entertainment, business, and academia. The event aims to inspire and empower the younger generation of South Asian Canadians to pursue their dreams and aspirations, and to make a positive impact on Canadian society.
Through this event, CASSA strives to promote cultural understanding and appreciation among Canadians of all backgrounds and to create a more inclusive and diverse society. SAHM is a valuable opportunity to celebrate the cultural richness and diversity of Canada, and to recognize the significant contributions of South Asian Canadians to the fabric of Canadian society.
2024
Every May, CASSA organizes a month-long celebration to honor the rich cultural diversity, history, and heritage of South Asians in Canada. This year’s theme, “Celebrating South Asian Business Leaders in Canada,” shines a spotlight on diversity in leadership and entrepreneurship. Throughout the month, we showcased inspiring stories of South Asian trailblazers who are shaping various industries across Canada.
The campaign began with the launch of a poster on May 1, featuring distinguished leaders from multiple sectors including food, technology, real estate, finance, and communications:
- Aman Adatia – Managing Partner of FARE Group and Co-Founder & CEO of Epok Enterprises
- Dr. Nabanita Nawar – CEO & Co-founder of HDAX
- Nahid Aziz and Samad Razzak – Founders and Owners of Maison Chaïshaï
- Prasanna Ranganathan – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Advisor & Consultant, Speaker, Correspondent, Writer, and Columnist
- Saadia Muzaffar – Founder and President of TechGirlsCanada and Co-founder of Tech Reset Canada
- Tony Singh – Founder and President of Fruiticana
The celebration culminated on May 29 with a panel discussion event, organized in partnership with United Way Greater Toronto’s South Asian Community Advisory Council. The event featured a rich agenda, starting with an art exhibition by Asim Hussain, professionally known as @studentasim. His exhibition, “First Contact,” delves into the Partition of India, offering a poignant introduction and rekindling interest in this pivotal historical event.
The day continued with a captivating performance by Aakhya Singh, a renowned Hindustani classical vocalist from India, who transported the audience with her soulful renditions of classical Indian songs. Our very own Fahrina Kazi Junaid then graced the stage with a classical South Indian dance, known for its intricate footwork, graceful movements, and expressive storytelling. Tai Salih, a former refugee and visionary founder of the Red Ma’at Collective, delivered a powerful spoken word performance. One piece particularly resonated with the youth, urging them to reflect on their ancestors’ migratory experiences and the sacrifices that enabled their present existence. Ahkenam Arts mesmerized the audience with a riveting Tamil Indigenous performance, skillfully wielding the Parai drums. Historically linked with oppressed Dalit communities, the Parai has been reclaimed as a symbol of Dalit cultural identity and social freedom.
The highlight of the event was an engaging panel discussion featuring five distinguished individuals, accompanied by a live painting session by Khaula Siddique, a self-taught local artist of South Asian descent. The five speakers were:
- Aman Adatia – Managing Partner of FARE Group and Co-Founder & CEO of Epok Enterprises
- Saadia Muzaffar – Founder and President of TechGirlsCanada and Co-founder of Tech Reset Canada
- Prasanna Ranganathan – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Advisor & Consultant, Speaker, Correspondent, Writer, and Columnist
- Puja Aggarwa – Founder of KAPS Realty Group
- Esa Para Esananda – Real Estate Realtor and Community Activist/Volunteer
This event was a fitting conclusion to a month dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of South Asian business leaders in Canada. We are proud to honor these trailblazers who continue to inspire and shape the future of our diverse community.
