Let’s face it, navigating life as a Sikh students can be challenging. Without the right support and understanding, these young minds often find themselves grappling with unique issues that can hinder their academic and personal growth. The solution? Acknowledge and address the struggles below, and then provide your child with the tools and guidance they need to thrive.

What Are the Challenges Sikh Students Are Facing?

A serene scene of a young woman seated on a bench in a tranquil park setting.

1.  Lack of Direction/Motivation

Many Sikh students struggle with finding motivation and a clear sense of direction in their academic and personal lives. This can stem from a variety of factors, including societal pressures, overwhelming expectations, or simply not having identified their passions yet. Encourage your child to explore different interests and extracurricular activities to discover what excites them. Your guidance and encouragement are key to helping them find their path and stay motivated.


Two men in turbans collaborating on a laptop, discussing work together.

2. Lack of mentorship

A lack of mentorship can hinder the academic and personal development of Sikh students. Without guidance from experienced role models, they may feel uncertain about their goals and how to achieve them. Encourage your child to seek mentors within the Sikh community and beyond to gain valuable advice and support.

A man wearing a suit and turban delivering a speech during a conference.

3. Lack of opportunities beyond grades

The emphasis on academic achievement for Sikh students often overshadows the importance of developing skills and experiences beyond grades. This narrow focus can limit exposure to diverse opportunities that foster holistic growth. Encourage your child to explore extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and internships that align with their interests and passions. These experiences can enhance their skill set, build their resume, and provide a broader perspective on potential career paths.

A man in a turban stands in a crowded room, surrounded by people, looking sad but composed.

4. Lack of like-minded community

Sikh students often find it challenging to connect with peers who share similar values, interests, and cultural backgrounds. This lack of a like-minded community can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnect. Encourage your child to seek out groups, clubs, and organizations within and outside school that celebrate Sikh culture and foster a sense of belonging.


A woman with glasses working on a laptop at her desk looking confused

5. Lack of Financial Literacy

Understanding money management is crucial, yet many Sikh students enter adulthood with limited financial literacy. This gap can lead to poor financial decisions and long-term consequences. Encourage early education on budgeting, saving, and investing. Involve your child in family financial discussions to provide real-world context. Your proactive approach in this area can significantly enhance their confidence and independence.


A man with a turban sitting on a couch, focused on his phone screen.6. Social Media Addiction

Social media addiction is a growing concern that affects many students, including those in the Sikh community. The constant need to stay connected and the pressure to present a perfect online persona can lead to decreased productivity, anxiety, and a distorted self-image. Additionally, the consumption of negative content, such as cyberbullying, unrealistic beauty standards, and harmful comparisons, can significantly impact mental health and well-being. Encourage your child to set healthy boundaries with their social media use and curate their feeds to follow positive and uplifting content. 

A girl with long hair and a beanie focused on her laptop screen.

7. Post-COVID Loneliness and Difficulties with Social Reconnection

The pandemic has left many students feeling isolated and disconnected. Sikh students, like many others, may struggle with post-COVID loneliness and the challenge of reconnecting with peers. Encourage your child to engage in social activities, both within and outside the Sikh community, to rebuild their social networks and sense of belonging.


By addressing these issues head-on, you can help your child navigate the complexities of their educational journey with confidence and resilience. Remember, your support and understanding are vital in helping them thrive both academically and personally.

Meet Our Team

Prof. Ash Singh

Growing up in Thornhill, Ontario, I was often one of the few Sikh students. I embraced leadership roles, captaining sports teams, and serving as Athletic and Student Council President. These experiences earned me a gold medal and pre-acceptance to the Ivey Business School at Western University.

At Western, I founded and sold my first software company shortly after graduation, beginning my entrepreneurial journey. This journey includes accolades like the Sikh Centennial Award for Entrepreneurship and a nomination for the Sikh Awards in the UK. These experiences instilled resilience, innovation, and community support—principles guiding our Seva Leaders Initiative.

I’ve built global leadership programs, including in Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, and Australia with Sikh Youth Australia. Projects like SikhiWiki.org, the Turbanizer app, and the Nanak Time podcast showcase my commitment to preserving heritage and empowering young Sikhs.

Professionally, I founded startup accelerators like Hyper Accelerator, helping startups raise over $1 billion. As a professor of entrepreneurship at INSEAD, I combine academic rigor with practical experience to foster leadership and innovation.

As a father and husband, I am committed to creating a supportive environment for youth. Our Seva Leaders Initiative offers hands-on experience and mentorship from industry experts, helping young Sikh leaders discover their potential and make a positive impact.

Be a part of our mission to inspire and equip the upcoming generation of Sikh leaders. Start your path to leadership right here.

Gurjaap Singh Brar

Raised in Mississauga, Ontario, I was often one of the few Sikh students in my schools. I embraced leadership roles early on, serving as a Legislative Page and as Grade 8 Valedictorian. I went on to participate in the Gifted/Enhanced program from Grade 4 to Grade 12, along with winning numerous awards in debate and DECA competitions.

At The Knowledge Society (TKS) incubator, I went through the program myself, working on innovative projects, and then helped train other students, advising consulting projects with organizations like the UN, Instacart, and Walmart. As of 2024, TKS alumni have gone on to raise over $100 million collectively.

I developed an award-winning project in the biotech space and worked on projects in exponential technologies such as Virtual and Augmented Reality. My consulting work includes contributions to XPRIZE’s $100 million Carbon Capture Prize, Oxford Properties Group, Sidewalk Labs (Google’s sister company), and Kidogo, where I developed solutions to support entrepreneurial mothers in Kenya.

A project close to my heart is addressing the groundwater crisis in Punjab, having developed a solution validated by PhDs in the field. I also consulted on solutions for air pollution and crop burning in Punjab, receiving validation from the United Nations Environmental Programme.

For my community service, I was recently honored with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee award. I have also started and organized Sikh Students Associations across Ontario, fostering community and leadership.

Having been recently blessed with Amrit, I am currently pursuing my studies at the University of Toronto.

Join us in inspiring and equipping the next generation of Sikh leaders. Your journey to leadership starts here.

Benefits of Our Program

  • Educational Enrichment

    Our program enhances academic learning by providing hands-on projects and real-world applications, deepening students' understanding and engagement with their studies.

  • Skill Development

    Participants gain valuable skills such as leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and technical proficiency, equipping them for future challenges.

  • Career Preparation

    Through mentorship and practical experience, students are better prepared for their career paths, gaining insights and connections that can guide their professional journeys.

  • Community Engagement

    The program fosters a strong sense of community service and responsibility, encouraging students to contribute positively to society through meaningful projects like the Langar Seva App.

Project Spotlight: Langar Seva App

Three dedicated students from our Seva Leaders Initiative collaborated to develop an app for Langar Seva, enhancing the organization’s mission to provide free meals to those in need. Their innovative app features streamlined volunteer scheduling, optimized delivery routes, and real-time tracking of meal distribution. By integrating advanced technology, these students have significantly increased the efficiency and reach of Langar Seva, ensuring that more people receive timely and nutritious meals. Their project exemplifies the power of youth-driven innovation in making a meaningful community impact.

Learn more about Langar Seva here

Testimonials

“I am so grateful for the Seva Leaders Initiative. My son's involvement in developing the Langar Seva App has not only improved his technical skills but also taught him the importance of giving back to the community. The guidance and resources provided by the program have been exceptional. This experience has truly empowered him to become a compassionate and responsible leader.”

Simran K.

“My son joined the Seva Leaders Initiative with a passion for helping others but lacked direction. Through the program, he was able to channel his energy into creating the Langar Seva App, which helps distribute free food to those in need. The mentorship and support he received were phenomenal. Now, he's not only developed crucial leadership skills but has also made a tangible difference in our community. I couldn't be prouder!”

Atif M.

“The Seva Leaders Initiative has been a game-changer for my son. Working on the Langar Seva App allowed him to apply his technical knowledge to a cause he is passionate about. The program's emphasis on community service and leadership has helped him grow in ways we never imagined. He now sees himself as a leader who can make a positive impact. We are eternally grateful.”

Amritpal V.

How It Works

Get Started in 3 Easy Steps

  • Step 1: Sign Up
    Join our Waiting List

  • Step 2: Apply
    Submit your application for the program

  • Step 3: Succeed
    Watch your child do amazing things through the Seva Leaders Initiative

Features of Our Program

  • Mentorship and Networking

    We pair students with mentors to provide guidance, support, and inspiration. Mentors can share their experiences, offer career advice, and help students navigate their projects.

  • Workshops and Masterclasses

    We offer workshops and masterclasses with mentors on leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service, providing students with valuable insights and practical knowledge. Students can engage with mentors through Q&A sessions for open dialogue and idea exchange.

  • High-Impact Projects

    We promote collaboration between students and mentors on community projects, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios. We showcase successful projects and initiatives on social media, newsletters, and events.

  • Recognition and Awards

    We give awards and recognitions for outstanding achievements, both for students and mentors, to celebrate these accomplishments at annual events and motivate and inspire others.

  • Sangat and Community

    We emphasize the concept of Sangat, where being part of a community of high achievers nurtures growth and excellence. In doing this, we create a supportive environment where students can thrive and learn from one another.

  • Operating in Centres of Innovation

    We operate out of IDEA Mississauga and Brampton Innovation Hub to incubate talent in high-energy, innovative environments locally.