A large gathering of hundreds of women on March 28 at Our Global Village’s annual event, Sandook Sheeshean Wala, spotlighted women’s empowerment, cultural pride, and community leadership.
Blending Punjabi folk music, dance, and tradition, the event went beyond celebration to deliver a clear message of sisterhood and collective strength among women, the organizers said.
Along with the focus on preserving and promoting cultural heritage, the program highlighted OGV’s road safety campaign, “Be Seen. Be Safe.” a campaign they have been running since 2020, encouraging women to promote safer habits within their families and communities.
In a powerful and uncommon moment, menopause, a topic still considered taboo in 2026, was addressed openly on stage. Meera Gill, Founding President of OGV, spoke candidly on the issue, calling for breaking the silence, reducing stigma, and building awareness and support for women’s health. OGV has dedicated 2026 to raising menopause awareness, with a focus on education, support, and advocacy for women.
Attendees were also informed about new measures by the Government of British Columbia to provide free medications for menopause and diabetes starting this month.
“More than half of the 600 women in this hall are currently experiencing menopause. If we don’t feel safe and supported enough to speak openly about it in an all women event, then where will this silence be broken, and who better than us to do that?” said Gill.
The event also recognized three community leaders for their contributions:
- Maninder Grewal (Khalsa Credit Union) for three decades of leadership
- Rachna Singh for her public service in Surrey
- Naina Grewal (Red FM) as an emerging media voice
In this annual event, OGV motivated women to engage in social, cultural and political dialogue around them and collectively work towards driving meaningful change, said Gill.
