Sikhia 2019: A Journey of Growth and Discovery
My experience at Sikhia 2019 and CP24 Breakfast
Toronto, November 4, 2019 - A captivating moment captured in a group photograph symbolizes the essence of Sikhia 2019, an exclusive four-day career development retreat for young Sikh professionals. As a participant of the 2019 Sikhia family, I was bestowed with a sense of blessing, uniting with fellow individuals striving to pave their way forward in their careers as young Sikh professionals aged 18-25. The event, spanning from Thursday, October 10, 2019, to Sunday, October 13, 2019, etched these four days into my memory as an unforgettable experience in Toronto.
The inaugural day saw us breaking the ice and sharing a dinner, embracing the familial spirit that would pervade throughout the event. A unique blend of networking and camaraderie arose as Sikhs from diverse professional backgrounds converged. It was during these interactions that I forged new friendships and had the privilege to discuss my aspiration to study journalism at Ryerson University. Each day, the event commenced on a spiritually enriching note, as the resonance of Japuji Sahib - the first prayer in the Sikh Holy Book, Shiri Guru Granth Sahib Ji - united us in the main hall where our workshops unfolded.
Exploring Professions and Deepening Insights
The journey of enlightenment commenced with a job shadow experience alongside Manjot Singh, a familiar face from my high school days. We ventured to Bell Media, where I had the honor of meeting Pooja Handa and embarking on a tour of CP24 Breakfast. Witnessing the inner workings of broadcast media was a remarkable encounter that broadened my horizons. Subsequently, I delved into two insightful workshops: "Negotiating in the Workplace" and "Work/Life Integration." These sessions opened my eyes to the art of negotiation, particularly its relevance in diverse professions, and provided a profound understanding of self, helping me grasp the intricacies of my personality type.
A Kaleidoscope of Inspirational Moments
The symphony of Sikhia continued to resound as we gathered for dinner, graced by a keynote address from Avneet Kaur, a criminal lawyer with a notable UN tenure. Her words resonated deeply, echoing the notion that my Sikh identity is an unwavering constant, transcending negotiation. This sentiment seamlessly aligned with my previous post, "One of the worst days of my life," where I emphasized the irreplaceable role of my Sikh identity in my journey through journalism. Engaging in conversation with J.Bains, representing the York Regional Police, opened avenues to address societal issues through my journalistic efforts.
Learning, Reflecting, and Evolving
The second day ushered in mock interviews, resume critiques, professional photoshoots, and a networking lunch. Engaging with Gursev Singh, a keynote speaker and high school teacher, brought to light the art of balancing professional accomplishments with personal contentment, a philosophy I ardently aspire to adopt.
Beyond Workshops: A Bonding Adventure
The concluding day led us to an Escape Room, an unforgettable experience that amalgamated team dynamics with adventure. Axe throwing and puzzle-solving blended seamlessly as we worked collectively to navigate the enigmatic challenge. Throughout the event, an array of workshops enlightened us on money management, business etiquette, and our duty to the community. These sessions, even unfamiliar to older generations, served as enlightening sources of knowledge.
A Wholesome Experience Beyond the Workshops
In addition to the structured schedule, free time allowed for exploration, fostering camaraderie through activities like visiting Harbour Front, playing Mafia, and indulging in shopping escapades. Denny's became a haven for shared laughter and conversation, further enriching the tapestry of Sikhia.
Embracing Growth and Embodying Identity
In retrospect, Sikhia 2019 was an enriching tapestry woven with threads of growth, exploration, and camaraderie. It is with wholehearted conviction that I recommend this event to every Sikh seeking professional guidance. The event encapsulated networking, learning, and the nurturing of novel experiences across four transformative days. Within this community, I found a support system to share my thoughts and beliefs. Additionally, I am excited to announce my involvement in the Experience Sikhi Podcast, a platform that aligns with my journey in journalism. Sikhia 2019 propelled me toward embracing the title of Sikh Journalist, solidifying my unique identity in a field that I am passionate about.
For more details about this event, visit www.experiencesikhi.com.