At the heart of meaningful change are those who dedicate their lives to helping communities thrive. One of those changemakers is Daljit Gilll-Badesha, who we’re proud to recognize as the recipient of the Community Changemaker Award at DIVERSEcity’s 2025 Awards of Impact.
Sponsored by TD Bank, the Community Changemaker Award recognizes an established leader who has gone above and beyond to create positive social impact, particularly for those who are underserved.
For more than three decades, Daljit has devoted herself to building healthier, more inclusive communities across British Columbia. Her leadership has shaped city programs, provincial policy and countless lives — always guided by her belief that “working for our community is not just an act of generosity, but of responsibility.”
Rooted in her identity as a Punjabi Sikh woman, Daljit’s journey began with the values she grew up with — service, belonging and compassion. “I witnessed how selfless service can bring people together,” she shared. “Leading from the heart is the foundation of real change.” That ethos has carried her through a trailblazing career, including roles as Executive Director of SACH South Asian Community Hub, Principal of DGB Consulting Group and Adjunct Faculty at Simon Fraser University, and will guide her new role as CEO of AMSSA, the umbrella organization overseeing the immigrant settlement and integration sector.
From developing citywide childcare and youth engagement strategies to co-leading provincial anti-racism and childcare councils, Daljit’s work has strengthened the very systems that support families, women and newcomers. But she is quick to credit others: “It’s not easy as a woman of colour to lead this path, but what has carried me is the resilience, solidarity and power of relationships built on trust and compassion.”
Daljit’s leadership reminds us that real progress is born from collaboration — when we create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. Her story is not just about policy or programs; it’s about what happens when people come together with empathy and purpose to shape a better future.
Thank you to Sarb Johal, Area Manager, TD Small Business Banking, Surrey Delta and New West, TD Business Banking for presenting the award.
Learn more about the 2025 DIVERSEcity Awards of Impact recipients here.