B.C. Conservative Party Leader John Rustad must be one happy camper.
But B.C. United Leader Kevin Falcon must be one nervous soul.
And Premier David Eby must be one worried leader as he watches the fortunes of the B.C. Conservative Party rising steadily and his party candidates wonder in what ridings Conservative Party candidates may damage their chances of winning.
At least for now!
That is because if the latest Mainstreet Research poll is somewhat accurate, 34.2 per cent of decided voters support the B.C. Conservative Party as compared to 39.6 per cent who support the NDP and 14.2 per cent who support B.C, United. The B.C. Green Party has the support of 9.6 per cent of decided voters.
Along regional lines, the BC Conservatives lead in the interior by 10 points, are tied with the NDP on Vancouver Island and trail the NDP by 11 points in Greater Vancouver.
The Mainstreet Research poll must provide some hope for the NINE South Asians who are B.C. Conservative candidates – SEVEN of whom are in Surrey.
The other two are in Vancouver and Burnaby-New Westminster.
So let’s take a look at these nine candidates based on what their party’s website says about them.
(Earlier, a poll by the Angus Reid Institute showed that the NDP had 43 per cent support, the BC Conservative Party and B.C. United were tied at 22 per cent each, and the B.C. Green Party had 12 per cent support.)
- TEGJOT SINGH BAL
Surrey Newton
Tegjot currently holds roles as a senior marketing executive and radio host at Radio Punjab AM1600. Born in India, his journey led him to Switzerland for a Hotel Management Diploma and to London, England, where he earned a Computer Science Diploma.
Married to Sohni Bal since 2007, Tegjot has two sons, Jai, 13, and Yuvraj, 6. Sohni is an Excise and Taxation officer at the Canada Revenue Agency.
Before his radio career, Tegjot was a store manager in the Liquor Distribution Branch of the B.C. Government of British Columbia. He actively participated as a member of the British Columbia Government and Service Employees’ Union (BCGEU). His role as a radio host serves as a vital link to the community, offering a platform to address societal issues.
Tegjot actively participates in community events, offering assistance and focusing on creating a safe neighborhood for young individuals. Addressing issues such as drug-related concerns, he redirects youth aspirations toward achievements in sports and academics.
His policy priorities: addressing ICBC monopoly, childcare support, housing market stability, and gas price relief.
- MANDEEP DHALIWAL
Surrey North
Mandeep migrated to Canada in his 20s with his family, His wife Pawan is a dedicated Registered Nurse. They have a son, Diltaj. Mandeep’s roots in social service sprouted in India, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in group humanity and excelled in Kabaddi. As a national-level player, he secured a gold medal in an inter-college tournament. In Canada, Mandeep became a small business owner, establishing Fixman Auto Glass Repair and Fixman Auto Glass Supplier in Surrey. Through hard work and determination, he transformed his ventures into trusted brands within the industry. As a successful entrepreneur, Mandeep is attuned to the challenges faced by small businesses and is committed to advocating for policies fostering growth and supporting startups.
In his local community, he actively participates in various events and initiatives, he supports local charities and organizations, Mandeep’s commitment to social services continues through his membership in the BC Sikh Motorcycle Club, engaging in rides that contribute to the community. Notable among these is the 2016 motorcycle ride from BC to Ontario, and his participation in a fundraising bike ride from Canada to India, setting a world record and generating $100,000 for the Khalsa Aid organization.
His vision for BC focuses on critical areas such as affordable housing, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.
- AVTAR SINGH GILL
Surrey-Fleetwood
As President and CEO of Scott Road Insurance Services, Avtar has demonstrated exceptional business acumen and leadership skills. Avtar migrated from India at the age of 21 and has been married to Harwinder Kaur Gill for 27 years, with whom he has two sons. In addition, he served as a Union Director for COOWA for two years.
Known for his deep commitment to Surrey, Avtar advocates for equality, social justice, and community service. His volunteer work with organizations like Akal Academy and Guru Nanak’s Free Kitchen highlights his dedication to social welfare and cultural enrichment.
Avtar is educated in agriculture sciences (BSc. Hons.) and business (Sauder School of Business, UBC) and expertly blends grassroots knowledge with advanced business strategies. His tenured real estate career with Sutton Group showcases his empathetic client service approach.
Avtar’s strengths include excellent communication, independence, teamwork, and technological proficiency. His record as a presiding officer in elections and advisory board member for documentary productions speaks to his dedication to governance and cultural storytelling.
Now running for MLA, aims to foster a balanced community in Surrey, focusing on education, cultural identity, and economic growth. He is committed to transparent leadership, sustainable development, and community service.
- HONVEER SINGH RANDHAWA
Surrey-Guildford
Randhawa’s several years of practice in the legal field underpins his campaign. Operating from his law office at the crossroads of 128 Street and 80 Avenue in Surrey, Randhawa is known not just for his legal acumen, but for his unwavering dedication to fairness and accessibility to legal services. His belief that fairness is a cornerstone of society drives his commitment to offering significant pro-bono services, thereby ensuring others with limited finances have the opportunity to right the wrongs with the help of the judicial system.
His dedication extends beyond human connections, as an avid animal lover with a family that includes dogs, geese, ducks, hens, a parrot, and over a hundred fishes, Randhawa embodies the values of care and responsibility.
Beyond his professional achievements, Randhawa’s strength lies in his genuine connection with the Surrey-Guildford community. His daily interactions with a diverse clientele and his extensive network among business and community leaders have furnished him with an intimate understanding of the local landscape.
- DUPINDER KAUR SARAN
Surrey-Panorama
Dupinder Saran, also known as Dupinder Jaswal, blends a rich professional background with a lifelong commitment to community service.
Married with two children, aged 13 and 25, Dupinder is a seasoned Registered Nurse (RN, BSN, LNC) with an impressive 26 years of diverse nursing experience. Her professional journey has taken her through different Health Authorities in BC, including the Provincial Health Services Authority and the BC Emergency Health Services. Currently serving in the Primary Care Division under the Ministry of Health, Dupinder has demonstrated expertise ranging from newborn to geriatric care, clinical resource management, mental health, and specialized focus in dementia and Alzheimer’s care. In 2018, she founded and served as CEO of Nurse On the Go Home and Healthcare Services, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit in the healthcare sector.
Dupinder’s family has been an integral part of Surrey since the 1960s. Born in New Westminster and raised in Surrey, she considers herself part of the identity of the city. As a resident of Panorama Ridge for 17 years, she has witnessed the growth and development of the city since her childhood.
Dupinder is the Founder of One Voice Canada, a non-partisan foundation dedicated to supporting, creating awareness, and advocating for international students. Serving as a former Library Board Trustee for Surrey Libraries, she held the position of Vice-Chair during her four-year term. She’s been a director in various non-profit organizations.
She ran for School Trustee positions in both the 2018 and 2022 municipal elections.
- DR. JODY TOOR
Surrey-Cloverdale
Toor, IMD, PhD, brings a wealth of experience and expertise as a board-certified Integrative Medicine Doctor in both Canada and the United States.
Born at Langley Memorial and raised in Surrey, Toor’s roots run deep in the community she aims to serve. Currently residing in Surrey with her husband, Dr. Charn Toor, they are raising their two daughters, Nya and Jaya.
Dr. Toor is a passionate advocate for health and wellness, with a particular focus on mental health. As an Integrated Medicine Doctor she is non-prescribing and is not registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. She delivers holistic wellness and healthcare out of her practice in Surrey-Cloverdale, where she has helped thousands of patients.
With a blend of medical expertise, community roots, and a commitment to holistic well-being, Toor is poised to bring a fresh perspective and dedicated service to Surrey-Cloverdale as part of the Conservative Party of BC.
- ZEESHAN WAHLA
Surrey City Centre
Zeeshan is a professional engineer with extensive experience in engineering and planning, successfully running an engineering consulting business. He is registered P. Eng. in four provinces.
Zeeshan has called Surrey home ever since he first arrived in Canada in 2007 as an immigrant. He is a devoted husband and has four daughters.
Zeeshan’s journey includes a steadfast pursuit of higher education and the establishment of himself as a dynamic entrepreneur. Through these experiences, he has gained invaluable insight into the challenges faced by ordinary individuals within the current socio-economic landscape.
Zeeshan notes that the current state of the housing market and soaring gas prices have reached unsustainable levels, and believes it is imperative that the government takes decisive action to rein in these escalating costs by implementing effective measures. Additionally, there is a critical need to reassess government spending, particularly in areas of lavish expenditures, and redirect those funds back to the taxpayers who ultimately foot the bill.
Zeeshan asserts that political bias and ideology have no rightful place within British Columbia’s education curriculum and advocates for their immediate removal. He emphasizes that schools should serve as environments dedicated to learning, devoid of agendas aimed at activism or indoctrination.
Moreover, prioritizing policies that support the growth and prosperity of small and medium-sized businesses is paramount.
- JAG S. SANGHERA
Vancouver-Fraserview
Jag was raised in Prince George, B.C. He attended Langara College in Vancouver, where he pursued courses in Arts and Science. Married with two sons, Jag’s strong ties to the community are reflected in his various professional roles, including work in home development, management in aviation security, and his current position in law enforcement within the security industry.
Jag has been an integral part of community building and an advocate for the local area, demonstrating a commitment to Vancouver-Fraserview. He played a crucial role in a lobbying group that successfully brought the turf field to South Vancouver, showcasing his effective leadership and advocacy. His dedication to improving healthcare stems from personal experiences advocating for ill family members, witnessing the deterioration of service over the years.
His community work extends throughout his life, starting with coaching youth soccer with the Killarney and Indo-Canadian soccer associations. Jag’s passion for community development is evident in his collaborative efforts, aiming to bring better playing fields to Fraserview through partnerships with the Province and the City.
He is driven by a desire to see better housing and healthcare system policies in place.
- DEEPAK SURI
Burnaby-New Westminster
Deepak Suri’s journey encompasses a rich tapestry of experiences across continents and industries. Armed with a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Delhi, he began his career in finance in Kuwait before venturing into India’s automotive industry, specializing in crafting automobile interiors. A trailblazer in broadcasting, Deepak contributed significantly to India’s media landscape as a pioneering cable operator for over 11 years.
Immigrating to Canada in 1999, Deepak embarked on a groundbreaking venture in 2002 as the first AM Band part-owner, introducing diverse listeners to radio programming accessible in vehicles and computers. Hosting over 300 captivating radio talk shows titled ‘Bollywood Masala,’ he engaged audiences with insightful discussions.
His commitment to growth and entrepreneurship shines through his academic pursuits. Supplementing his career, he pursued a diploma in Immigration Consultancy from CDI College, showcasing his dynamic approach to personal and professional advancement.
Deepak’s entrepreneurial journey covers a wide array of fields. As a dynamic radio host and part-owner of a station, he engaged and inspired audiences. He also released motivational CDs in Hindi, including ‘Waqt Kya Hai’ and ‘Depression Ko Door Karo.’ Alongside his wife Alka, their culinary expertise shines through the successful management of three Indian restaurants in Burnaby and Vancouver.
