Face2News/New Jersey / Chandigarh
Sixty-four young Sikh adults from eight countries have returned to their communities, prepared to lead with renewed purpose and spirit following the 23rd annual Sidak Leadership Program.
Hosted by the Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) from 20 July to 2 August, the immersive program was held at the Khalsa Centre in Miracle Valley, British Columbia, Canada. This year's cohort represented a diverse global Sikh diaspora, with attendees from the US, Canada, the UK, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Australia, and New Zealand.
What began with orientation and shared meals quickly blossomed into a vibrant community built on profound reflection, spirited discussion, and lifelong connections. Harinder Singh, SikhRI Co-Founder and Sidak innovator, reflected: “2025 marked a significant milestone in the Sidak journey—12 of our 15 facilitators were Sidak alumni. Sidak was envisioned as a training ground for Gurmat-inspired leadership. To see alumni lead the next generation is not just fulfilling, it is the vision in action. Sidak is no longer just budding young Sikh content facilitators—it is led by them.
” From a single track to three courses, fee-based to fee-free, 15 attendees to 60, and much more, our donors and volunteers have ensured sustainable equity and healthy growth since 2003. The program’s curriculum is anchored in the Gurmat (Guru’s Way) framework of Bani (wisdom), Tavarikh (history), and Rahit (lifestyle).
Foundational courses include Sikhi 101, Sikhi 201, and Gurbani 101. The impact of this intentional, immersive experience was deeply felt. Participants shared: “Sikhi 101 helped me improve my reading comprehension and vocabulary in Bani so much, as I used to rely on English translations…now I feel more confident with reading and actually understanding Gurmukhi. I also feel much better informed on Sikh history…I learned so much about Sikh communities across the world from just talking with the sangat here. ” — Harnidh Kaur, Sikhi 101 Attendee “I have been introduced to many new ideas and opinions that have changed my perspective on how I view Sikhi.
I think I can now see how vast Sikhi is—its influence on people and how individuals benefit spiritually, mentally, and physically from their faith. ” — Insaf Singh, Sikhi 201 Attendee “Sidak has made Gurbani much more approachable and has given me an understanding of the structure, language, and meaning of Gurbani. I will be using this experience to form a closer bond with the Guru and IkOankar.
” — Gurwinder Singh, Gurbani 101 Attendee At Sidak, learning goes beyond the classroom through a holistic approach that blends reflection with experience. Afternoons are filled with open discussions and activities like archery, rock climbing, and volleyball, where teamwork and resilience take shape. In art and poetry sessions, Sidakers expressed their experience of Sabad (Infinite-Wisdom) through color and form, practicing what it means to lead with both Surat (awareness) and Ruh (spirit).
A daily rhythm of Sabad-centered discipline and connection shaped each day. Morning and evening divans invited path, kirtan, Hukam reflections, and contemplative sharing. These practices grounded the Sidakers, whether on-site or during excursions, including a visit to the historic Gur Sikh Temple in Abbotsford, where they reflected on the struggles of Sikh settlers who arrived in 1905. As 64 Sidakers and 15 facilitators return home, they carry with them spirit, knowledge, and a renewed commitment to live Gurmat in a global community. Registrations for 2026 will open on 1 December 2025. Program details at SikhRI.org/Sidak.