International Student to Lifelong Supporter: Navjot of iNavphoto Shares His Journey with SAF International

In the summer of 2010, I landed in Canada as an international student—young, hopeful, and eager to build a new life. The early years were anything but easy. I worked multiple jobs to pay my tuition, kept up with my studies, and took on freelance gigs in website development. Every opportunity mattered, and every project helped shape the path I was carving for myself in this new country.

A Divine Connection with SAF International

In 2014, a freelance website job led me to Shamandeep Singh, who had just registered a nonprofit called SAF International. What began as a client meeting soon became something far more meaningful. I was honoured to take on the seva (selfless service) of developing SAF’s first-ever website. As a Sikh, giving back isn’t just a good thing to do—it’s who we are. And this opportunity felt like it was meant to be.

While working with Shamandeep, I learned about SAF’s mission to provide education and uplift marginalized communities across South Asia. The cause immediately resonated with me. Growing up in India, I knew how life-changing education could be. From that moment on, I knew that this was a mission I’d stand behind forever.

Building iNavphoto—and Giving Back Along the Way

Around the same time, I was also building my own dream: iNavphoto, a photography business that would soon become one of the most recognized names in our local community. Through iNavphoto, I’ve had the chance to capture countless special moments for families, couples, and businesses—but giving back through SAF International has been the most meaningful journey of them all.

A few years later, I married my amazing wife, Harpreet Kaur, who shared my passion for supporting children’s education. Together, we made a promise: with every life milestone—whether personal or professional—we would sponsor more children through SAF. Each year, as our business grew and our family flourished, we continued to expand our support.

A Decade of Seva, Love, and Transformation

Some of the most touching moments in our journey have come from the simple, powerful thank-you letters we receive from the children. Their heartfelt words and drawings bring so much joy and remind us why we do this seva. One particular memory stands out: a girl we sponsored graduated from high school and enrolled in university. That day felt like a celebration in our own home.

Today, after more than 11 years of being involved with SAF International, Harpreet and I feel nothing but gratitude. We are thankful to Waheguru Ji for allowing us to make even a small impact in the lives of these children. Every story of struggle, every letter from a student, fuels our commitment to continue this mission. All we ask from Waheguru is to keep this seva going—and to give us the strength and means to do more.

Why You Should Join This Journey

If you’re reading this and wondering whether one person can make a difference—the answer is yes. Supporting a child’s education through SAF International isn’t just a donation; it’s an act of empowerment that echoes through generations. It brings purpose, fulfillment, and a sense of connection to something larger than yourself.

Whether you’re starting your career, running your own business like I do with iNavphoto, or simply looking to give back—there’s room for you in this journey. Join us, and help change a child’s life forever.