Sikh Centennial Foundation

Sikh Centennial Foundation is a non-profit organization which was founded in 1997 to commemorate the centenary of Sikh settlement in Canada. Since its inception, the Foundation has been in the forefront of promoting Sikhism, as well as Indian heritage and culture.

The Foundation continues to work in bringing greater understanding of the Sikh way of life amongst the community at large by:

    • Creating and fostering a positive and accurate portrayal of Sikhs

    • Celebrating the achievement of excellence in accordance with Sikh ideals

    • Promoting an awareness and understanding of Sikh milestones

    • Promoting an understanding of the Sikh way of life

    • Making Sikh heritage and history accessible

The Sikh Centennial Foundation Annual Gala is the highlight of the year for the Sikh diaspora in Canada. Over the past twelve years, we have hosted the Prime Minister of Canada, leaders of industry, distinguished entrepreneurs and accomplished artists, in what has become the most prestigious South Asian event in North America.

In addition to showcasing exceptional art work and entertainment connected to Sikh heritage, every year the Sikh Centennial Foundation honours both exemplary Sikhs and non-Sikhs whose accomplishments deserve recognition. In the past, honourees have included Chief Justice Roy McMurtry of Ontario; Justice Wally Oppal, the current Attorney General of BC; humanitarians Stephen Lewis and June Callwood; Sarabjit Marwah, Vice-Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of the Bank of Nova Scotia; and Emanuel Sandhu, internationally ranked Canadian figure skater.