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| DavidSidoo |
DARPAN’s 10: David Sidoo, Restaurant Consultant/Partner & Real Estate Developer
 1. What are your memories growing up in Canada?
I remember the best parts of growing up in Canada to being able to play where ever (meaning in the parks and playgrounds) you wanted until the sun went down. It was a great childhood.
2. What is your educational background?
I am a graduate of the University of British Columbia. I majored in a Bachelors of Sports Administration and Education.
3. Tell us about your career as a professional football player?
I played professional football for six years in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Five of those years were spent with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and one year with the BC Lions. I am proud to say that I was the first Indo Canadian to play professional football.
4. After football, you became more successful, how did you do it?
I did not stop my life when I left football. Instead, I implemented all of the traits I learned as an athlete. I had learned hard work, dedication, perseverance, integrity, how to be a good teammate and to never quit. Not only were they great sports skills, but great life skills.
5. Why have you pursued owning world-famous restaurants like DB Bistro Moderne?
It is an indulgence of my wife (Manjy) and I. We love fine dining and love more to work with talented people in every profession. Chef Daniel Boulud is a gem and it is a treat to work and partner with him. He thinks big like we do. We are proud to have him here in Vancouver and proud that we are partners with him in two of the best restaurants in our lovely city.
6. How do you balance your work and family life?
More family, than work, does the trick. Don’t get too serious about what you do. When you’re almost done in this world, you are not going to wish you did more deals. Family is the most important part of my life. And with my success, I have been fortunate enough to have the time whenever I want to spend with my family.
7. What do you love best about your life?
My family and the flexibility I have to do whatever I would like to. It is very exciting! I meet so many interesting people in all walks of life. I have a great life.
8. Who were/are the role models in your life and what inspired you?
My parents are definitely on that list. They made the daring move to immigrate to Canada in the early 50’s. I also have to credit my wife, she inspires me very day.
9. What advice can you give our readers to build confidence in their careers and lives?
Do what makes you happy. Don’t get in a career for money. You have to be happy. Then once you’ve set your sights on what you would like to do, never quit! Be determined to be the best that you can be. And most of all have integrity in what you do. Never cut corners.
10. What current projects business/philanthropic are you working on?
Philanthropically, we are working on lots of projects. In India, we are bringing clean water to some villages in the Punjab. We started working on this project, this past November in India and enjoy giving back. We continue to support the Clinton Foundation. This fall, we worked diligently to bring lunches to several dozen elementary schools in New Westminster. I am also still involved in my football Alumni at both UBC and New Westminster High School. Our family also offers young student athletes yearly academic and athletic scholarships. Businesswise, we are expanding our investment in the restaurant industry. Not as operators, but as the business arm in terms of being financial consultants and partners. We are also involved in real-estate development in Vancouver.
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