About Us

Our Mission

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Recognize the entire human race as one

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Spread love and joy as taught by Guru Sahib

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Work with integrity and honesty

The SAF Story

As a dedicated and passionate group of Vancouver Sikhs with a deep connection to Sikhi, our mission is to help underprivileged communities of all faiths across South Asia. With our help and the support of our donors, families can find stability and access the resources they need to succeed and prosper.

While wholeheartedly serving communities worldwide through our diverse seva initiatives, we must never overlook the importance of uplifting Sikhs in South Asia, guided by Sri Guru Gobind Singh jee's Gurbani.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF SAF INTERNATIONAL

2014

Sikhi Awareness Foundation is founded and registered to promote Sikhi and provide education to children in India.

2016

Expanded to new regions in India, launched 5 Gurmat Kendars, and started Shelter programs.

2018

Reached 500 child sponsorships, raised the first half-million, expanded services to Sikligar & Vanjare Sikhs, and opened the India office.

2020

Built the first school in Lopoke village, improved public education infrastructure, and installed smart classes in 100 schools.

2022

Registered local SAF bodies in Nepal and Australia, expanding programs to serve communities in Nepal.

2023

Surpassed $1 million in donations, supporting 1,800 sponsorships across 400+ villages in South Asia.

Our Team

Proud B.C. Sikhs who believe in supporting vulnerable communities across South Asia. The directors meet several times a year and act in the best interest of our sponsors and donors to ensure that the donations we receive are used in the best way possible. 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sukhmandeep Singh

Secretary

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Sukhmandeep Singh

Secretary

Sukhmandeep Singh

Secretary

Sukhmandeep currently works as a Developer for Langara College in Vancouver and also pursuing BBA. He is involved in various local community organizations and loves spending time on Panthic work. His contribution to SAF began many years ago as an Intern and soon after became part of our donor community. He was chosen as the president of SAF International at our recent AGM in July 2022.

Gurmeet Singh

President

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Gurmeet Singh

President

Gurmeet Singh

President

Gurmeet has been working as a Mortgage Consultant in the Metro Vancouver area for the past 25 years. He is a co- founder and President of Financial Key Mortgage Corporation, and gives back to his community through his work with charitable organizations.

Sundeep Singh Grewal

Treasurer

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Sundeep Singh Grewal

Treasurer

Sundeep Singh Grewal

Treasurer

Sundeep is an immigration lawyer who owns and operates his own law firm, Lawgical Law Corporation, catering to clients throughout the Fraser Valley. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in history, with a particular focus on South Asian studies, including Panjabi and Sikh history. Sundeep attributes his fondness for history to the stories of the Sikh Gurus that were narrated to him during his childhood. Sundeep’s association with SAF began when he sponsored a child. In 2023, he joined the board of directors as he was deeply moved by SAF’s incredible work. Sundeep perceives his role on the board as a chance to leverage his advocacy skills and passion for Sikhi to make a positive impact…

Gurjot Singh Cheema

Director

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Gurjot Singh Cheema

Director

Gurjot Singh Cheema

Director

Gurjot Singh Cheema is a dedicated and community-driven professional with a strong background in outreach communication, public engagement, and service within the public sector. He is passionate about building authentic relationships, promoting civic participation, and creating inclusive spaces where diverse voices are heard and valued. Throughout his career, Gurjot has contributed to a wide range of initiatives, from strategic communications and stakeholder outreach to grassroots community development and social impact programs. His collaborative approach and focus on equity make him a trusted partner in advancing meaningful change. Gurjot is especially committed to strengthening connections between government, organizations, and the communities they serve. He believes in the power of thoughtful dialogue and collective action to drive progress. Outside of his professional…

Manpreet Kaur

Director

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Manpreet Kaur

Director

Manpreet Kaur

Director

Manpreet Kaur is a lawyer based in Surrey, BC, and currently serves as a Director at SAF International. Her work is grounded in the belief that everyone deserves access to resources, support, and justice—regardless of their background or circumstances. She is guided by the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and is deeply committed to the spirit of Sewa in her community work.

DAILY OPERATIONS

Shamandeep Singh the CEO & Founder at SAF International

Shamandeep Singh

Chief Executive Officer & Founder

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Shamandeep Singh

Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Shamandeep Singh the CEO & Founder at SAF International

Shamandeep Singh

Chief Executive Officer & Founder

Born and raised in Panjab, I grew up hearing stories of great Sikh men and women that had selflessly served and sacrificed for others. These stories ignited my passion to follow the path created by my ancestors. The problems in my homeland such as drug addiction, poverty, and abuse of girls and women only strengthened my desire to make a difference. Admittedly, creating my own journey to make a difference has been an overwhelming and humbling experience. After much contemplation, with Waheguru Ji’s Kirpa, me and my friends started small programs in my family village to work with youth and inspire them to learn and grow. This simple initiative received a great response and was very successful. Children were getting…

Supinder Kaur

Program Associate

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Supinder Kaur

Program Associate

Supinder Kaur

Program Associate

Supinder is leadin away at our new position of Program Associate. She ensures efficient delivery of our Child Sponsorship programs in India and works as a bridge between both India & Canada offices. She ensures the smooth communciation of our team in Canada with our donorbase. Supinder works remotely from Toronto and enjoys being with SAF International.

rajbir kaur - donor relations member

Rajbir Kaur

Donor Relations

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Rajbir Kaur

Donor Relations
rajbir kaur - donor relations member

Rajbir Kaur

Donor Relations

With over four years of experience in customer service and administration roles, I am dedicated to helping our donors. I will try to go the extra mile to make sure each donor gets the support they need. Passionate about service and giving, I find joy and fulfillment in helping others, inspired by the idea of seva.

Simranpreet Kaur

Marketing and Development Associate

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Simranpreet Kaur

Marketing and Development Associate

Simranpreet Kaur

Marketing and Development Associate

With a Master’s in Cybersecurity, I began my journey at SAF as a Community Relations Associate, leaving behind my managerial role in the corporate world to pursue a more meaningful path. Over time, I transitioned into Marketing and Development, focusing on improving processes and expanding our outreach. In my role, I help strengthen the connection between SAF and the community, driving growth and positive change. The stories of hope and resilience from the people we support keep me grounded and grateful for everything life has to offer.

Rupinder Kaur

Administrative Assistant

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Rupinder Kaur

Administrative Assistant

Rupinder Kaur

Administrative Assistant

Originally from Patiala, Rupinder relocated to Canada in 2017. Armed with degrees in Electronics Engineering and Human Resources, she boasts 5 years of office administration experience, thriving as the face of organizations. Proficient in administrative tasks, office management, and executive support, she brings motivation and efficiency to every role. Joining SAF as an Admin Assistant, Rupinder blends professional responsibilities with community service, finding fulfillment and satisfaction. When not in the office, she loves exploring new places, watching TV, and cherishing quality time with loved ones over outings or dinners.

Shamandeep Singh the CEO & Founder at SAF International

Shamandeep Singh

Chief Executive Officer & Founder

Read Bio

Shamandeep Singh

Chief Executive Officer & Founder
Shamandeep Singh the CEO & Founder at SAF International

Shamandeep Singh

Chief Executive Officer & Founder

Born and raised in Panjab, I grew up hearing stories of great Sikh men and women that had selflessly served and sacrificed for others. These stories ignited my passion to follow the path created by my ancestors. The problems in my homeland such as drug addiction, poverty, and abuse of girls and women only strengthened my desire to make a difference. Admittedly, creating my own journey to make a difference has been an overwhelming and humbling experience. After much contemplation, with Waheguru Ji’s Kirpa, me and my friends started small programs in my family village to work with youth and inspire them to learn and grow. This simple initiative received a great response and was very successful. Children were getting…

Supinder Kaur

Program Associate

Read Bio

Supinder Kaur

Program Associate

Supinder Kaur

Program Associate

Supinder is leadin away at our new position of Program Associate. She ensures efficient delivery of our Child Sponsorship programs in India and works as a bridge between both India & Canada offices. She ensures the smooth communciation of our team in Canada with our donorbase. Supinder works remotely from Toronto and enjoys being with SAF International.

rajbir kaur - donor relations member

Rajbir Kaur

Donor Relations

Read Bio

Rajbir Kaur

Donor Relations
rajbir kaur - donor relations member

Rajbir Kaur

Donor Relations

With over four years of experience in customer service and administration roles, I am dedicated to helping our donors. I will try to go the extra mile to make sure each donor gets the support they need. Passionate about service and giving, I find joy and fulfillment in helping others, inspired by the idea of seva.

Simranpreet Kaur

Marketing and Development Associate

Read Bio

Simranpreet Kaur

Marketing and Development Associate

Simranpreet Kaur

Marketing and Development Associate

With a Master’s in Cybersecurity, I began my journey at SAF as a Community Relations Associate, leaving behind my managerial role in the corporate world to pursue a more meaningful path. Over time, I transitioned into Marketing and Development, focusing on improving processes and expanding our outreach. In my role, I help strengthen the connection between SAF and the community, driving growth and positive change. The stories of hope and resilience from the people we support keep me grounded and grateful for everything life has to offer.

Rupinder Kaur

Administrative Assistant

Read Bio

Rupinder Kaur

Administrative Assistant

Rupinder Kaur

Administrative Assistant

Originally from Patiala, Rupinder relocated to Canada in 2017. Armed with degrees in Electronics Engineering and Human Resources, she boasts 5 years of office administration experience, thriving as the face of organizations. Proficient in administrative tasks, office management, and executive support, she brings motivation and efficiency to every role. Joining SAF as an Admin Assistant, Rupinder blends professional responsibilities with community service, finding fulfillment and satisfaction. When not in the office, she loves exploring new places, watching TV, and cherishing quality time with loved ones over outings or dinners.

Impact Reports

Each year, we provide a breakdown of our costs to show our donors how their donations are being used. This is because we believe in full transparency with our donors.

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2024

Impact Report

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2023

Impact Report

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2022

Impact Report

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Our Donors

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For seven years, I've had the honour of sponsoring Sahilpreet Singh through SAF. Their exceptional work uplifting neglected Sikh families inspires me. Receiving Sahilpreet's joyful letters is heartwarming, and knowing he’s thriving fills me with gratitude. Blessed by Guru’s grace, it's our duty to support those in need, and SAF makes it truly rewarding.

Romi Gill

Sponsor since 2017

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Moving to Canada as a student in 2010 was tough, but it led me to SAF and the honour of creating its first website. My wife Harpreet and I now support children’s education in India, inspired by their heartfelt letters. After 10 years, we thank Waheguru Ji for this seva and encourage others to join this life-changing mission.

Navjot Singh

Supporter since 2014

FAQ

If you have questions or concerns regarding sponsorships, donations, your account, or SAF in general, you may find the answers you’re looking for in our handy help center.

READ OUR FAQS