New Westminister, BC - This past weekend was a busy one for the volunteers of New Westminster's Sukh Sagar Gurdwara who held a flurry of summer activities with the cooperation and assistance of the Sikh Student's Associations of University of British Columbia. It was the latest in a number of united Sikh youth events in which various organizations teamed up with the Sukh Sagar Gurdwara for community projects. With youth off for the summer Sikh youth volunteers saw this great opportunity to organize some fun and educational activities as well as give back to the community. A homeless food drive was organized by the youth which followed by a weeklong youth camp which was organized by the Student Association and Sukh Sagar Gurdwara.
The Sikh Students Associations of UBC organized its second annual "Sikh Spirit Camp" with the assistance of the Sukh Sagar Gurdwara from July 7-12. The purpose of the camp was to provide a medium for Sikh and non-Sikhs to grow, interact, and experience Sikhism in various ways. The theme for the Sprit Camp was celebrating 300 Saal Gurta Gaddi of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, to help students gain an understanding of the spiritual and temporal aspects of Sikhism. Over 40 Sikh youth ranging from age 16-24 attended the week long camp which featured activities such as hiking, beach sports, ice skating, picnics, discussions and workshops.
" Through this camp, we hoped to inspire students to follow Sikhism and to incorporate Sikh values in their lives to overcome obstacles and to grow up to become successful, happy and ethical members of society." Sukhjeet Singh Brar, UBC SSA
In addition to normal camp workshops and classes a special workshop was held on the turban, explaining the meaning and significance to Sikhs and turbans were tied on all camp participants male and female. Some camp students will also take part in upcoming Gurdwara out-reach programs such as the multicultural event on July 20th at Deer Lake Park, Burnaby, where turbans will be explained to the community at large as well as tied on individuals.
