Building a brighter future: exciting programs on the horizon at Sher Vancouver

Jag Nagra Sher Vancouver
Artist Jag Nagra created this image for Sher Vancouver.

At Sher Vancouver, we are dedicated to creating a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies, particularly within the South Asian community. As we look ahead to an exciting future, we are proud to unveil a series of impactful initiatives and events that embody our mission of fostering connection, empowerment, and social justice. From innovative mentorship programs to enriching cultural celebrations, each of these endeavors reflects our unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized voices and creating meaningful change. Join us as we continue to champion diversity and inclusivity, paving the way for a brighter future for all.

Sher Christmas Celebration

December 2024 or January 2025
Join us for a festive gathering that celebrates community spirit and togetherness during the holiday season, fostering connections among our members.

Sundar Prize Film Festival Filmmaker Mentorship Program

Launching January 1, 2025
This transformative program aims to empower emerging filmmakers by connecting them with experienced industry professionals, enhancing skills, and fostering creativity

Announcement of the January Marie Lapuz Youth Leadership Award Winners

February 1, 2025
We are excited to recognize and celebrate outstanding youth leaders who have made significant contributions to the 2SLGBTQ+ community, showcasing their dedication and potential.

Sundar Prize Film Festival

April 10 to 13, 2025 | SFU Surrey Campus and Landmark Cinemas Guildford
Join us for this prestigious festival that highlights powerful storytelling through film, focusing on critical social issues and promoting diverse voices from around the globe.

Amar (Alex) Sangha identity
Sher Vancouver founder Amar Sangha produced Emergence: Out of the Shadows, which shines a light on challenges faced by LGBT+ people of Punjabi ancestry living in the Lower Mainland.

Queer In Colour

Twice a month at Surrey City Centre Library
An inclusive gathering space for queer BIPOC youth and friends 19 to 30 to come together, share experiences, and engage in meaningful conversations that celebrate intersectionality within the LGBTQ+ community.

Dosti Project

Once a month at Solid State Co-op
This initiative fosters friendship and support among South Asian LGBTQ+ individuals 19+, creating a safe environment for connection and personal growth.

Sher Lotus

In Development
Stay tuned for this exciting new initiative aimed at enhancing community outreach and support services for queer South Asian women and friend, tailored to meet the evolving needs of our members.

Sher Vancouver Volunteer Recognition Dinner

May 2025 | Hosted at Sher Vancouver Founder Alex Sangha’s Home
An evening dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of our volunteers who play a crucial role in our mission and community efforts.

Sher Spotlight during Pride Month

June 2025
This initiative will profile and celebrate the remarkable stories of Sher Vancouver members, highlighting their journeys, achievements, and contributions to the community.

Pride of Bollywood Float in the Vancouver Pride Parade

June 2025
Sher Vancouver’s award-winning float in the Vancouver Pride Parade will return with a bang with Bollywood, Bhangra, and Fusion beats, and dancers with colourful costumes

Sher Vancouver Award for Best LGBTQ+ Film at iSAFF

September 2025
Recognizing exceptional talent in LGBTQ+ cinema at the International South Asian Film Festival, this award underscores our commitment to celebrating diverse narratives and empowering filmmakers in our community. The award comes with a $2000 cash prize for the winning director.

Destination YVR Survival Guide Workshops

October 2025
Practical workshops designed to assist newcomers and those in need, providing essential information and resources to navigate life in Vancouver effectively.

Sher Vancouver Award for Best 2SLGBTQ+ Film at VAFF

November 2025
This award at the Vancouver Asian Film Festival highlights outstanding contributions to 2SLGBTQ+ cinema, reinforcing our dedication to promoting visibility and representation in the film industry.  The award comes with a $2000 cash prize for the winning director.

I, Migrant Feature Documentary Test Screenings

December 2025
Join us for exclusive test screenings of this compelling documentary, inviting diverse audiences to engage in discussions about the immigrant experience and its impact on our communities.

Sher Vancouver Public Service Announcement

Launching December 2025
This impactful campaign aims to combat racism and hate, promoting understanding, acceptance, and solidarity within our diverse communities.

As we embark on these exciting initiatives, Sher Vancouver remains steadfast in our mission to uplift and support the LGBTQ+ community. Each program and event represents our dedication to fostering connections, celebrating diversity, and empowering individuals. We invite everyone to join us in these efforts, as together, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate community for all.

Amar Sangha is a social worker, counsellor, documentary film producer, and Founder of Sher Vancouver which is a registered charity established for over 16+ years.  For more information check out www.shervancouver.com. Follow Pancouver on Twitter @PancouverMedia and on Instagram @PancouverMedia.

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Amar Sangha

Amar Sangha is the founder of Sher Vancouver.

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The Society of We Are Canadians Too created Pancouver to foster greater appreciation for underrepresented artistic communities. A rising tide of understanding lifts all of us.

We would like to acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish Nation), and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation). With this acknowledgement, we thank the Indigenous peoples who still live on and care for this land.

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada.

The Society of We Are Canadians Too created Pancouver to foster greater appreciation for underrepresented artistic communities. A rising tide of understanding lifts all of us.

We would like to acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. With this acknowledgement, we thank the Indigenous peoples who still live on and care for this land.

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