Reaction to the DARPAN Power Women of Influence

On March 22 last year, DARPAN Magazine hosted its 2nd annual DARPAN Power Women of Influence 2024 at the breathtaking venue of Vancouver Convention Centre, presented by RBC and powered by Cadillac.

"Tonight was dedicated to celebrating the strength, resiliency, and exuberance of some impressive and highly accomplished South Asian females – and what an evening it was! It was an absolute honor for RBC to be the presenting sponsor of the 2023 DARPAN Magazine Power Women of Influence Gala."-Martin Thibodeau, Regional President, British Columbia RBC.

"It was wonderful to celebrate these powerful women and to hear them share their experiences and personal journeys as they challenged the status quo and broke barriers in their respective fields. What an incredibly inspirational and powerful event."- Sabrina Keeler-Beggs, National Sales Operations, Manager, Cadillac.

The celebration was one of a kind and held in Vancouver.  The unique evening was an exceptional celebration of women's empowerment.

Located on the gorgeous Vancouver waterfront with a dramatic mountain backdrop, the magical evening began with a red carpet reception.

550 guests were greeted with a flurry of cameras, flashing lights, and a sense of excitement—attendees arriving in stunning outfits, reflecting the spirit of the occasion.

The highlight of the evening was a panel discussion called DARPAN PowerTalk featuring accomplished women leaders from diverse fields, including politics, the corporate world, entertainment, and science. Seasoned journalist, anchor/reporter with Global National, Neetu Garcha moderated the discussion. Before the panel, Garcha welcomed on stage the panelists, who, one by one, shared their individual stories and journeys.

"The entire DARPAN team should be very proud. It’s hard to believe this was the first event of its kind. You were all exceptionally organized, and it’s clear through every detail of the event that you all put your heart, drive, and so much care into it. I enjoyed the panel discussion and heard a lot of great feedback from others who felt the same, people I know and several people I’d never met before!&rdquo" -Neetu Garcha, Anchor/Reporter, Global National.

The first DARPAN Power Talk speaker was the president of the Angus Reid Institute, Shachi Kurl, who shared the importance of gender equity and inclusion in research.

“Honored to have been a part of such a dynamic panel among incredible women leaders. The DARPAN Power Women of Influence Gala, much like the DARPAN Awards, is a truly enlightening event that moves the conversation on women's empowerment forward. Grateful to DARPAN Magazine for creating a space that celebrates and uplifts the voices of women.” Shachi Kurl, Pollster, Analyst & Public Speaker

The motivational diplomat who is the UK Consul General in Toronto, Fouzia Younis, spoke about battling sexism from somebody who has been part of the political landscape. 

Actress, model, author, wellness advocate, cancer survivor, and entrepreneur, the unstoppable Lisa Ray, shared how women can enhance accessibility and destigmatize alternative fertility paths to empower women in their reproductive choices as someone whose kids were born through surrogacy.

"It was a privilege to be part of a Power Panel of accomplished and inspiring women. I was impressed by the accomplishments of other women panelists, especially the drive and spirit to help foster the next generation of budding leaders. Thank you, DARPAN Magazine, for having me as part of the second annual DARPAN Power Women of Influence Gala".-Lisa Ray Actor, Author & Wellness Advocate.

Senior VP at TELUS Health, Juggy Sihota, shared steps she's taking to pave the way for other women in leadership roles and advocate for gender equity in the workplace.

"A truly unforgettable night to be surrounded by fellow women powerhouses from various professions who are symbols of leadership and mentors to many. DARPAN Power Women of Influence Gala is truly a step in the right direction to push the women empowerment dialogue forward. Humble and grateful to have been a panelist. Thank you, DARPAN Magazine."-Juggy Sihota, Senior Vice President, Global Healthcare Services, TELUS Health

The final DARPAN PowerTalk of the evening came from inspiring scientist, CTO of Quantum Algorithms Institute, and professor of physics and computing science at Wilfred Laurier University, Dr. Shohini Ghose, who shared how changing the system can promote greater inclusivity and opportunities for women in STEM and other male-dominated industries.

Actress, entrepreneur, and winner of the Miss Universe 2000 pageant, the accomplished Lara Dutta Bhupathi, was a panelist at the DARPAN Power Women of Influence Gala 2023, shared how women can use their talent to create magic in the arts field and strong-headedly tackle all challenges that fame may bring.

"Thank you, DARPAN Magazine and Vancouver, for an unforgettable evening!!! Was an honor to be part of the Power Women of Influence Gala!."-Lara Dutta, Indian Actor, and Former Miss Universe 2000.

Inspiring activist, founder, and executive director of the women-led NGO Afghan Institute of Learning, Dr. Sakena Yacoobi, a panelist at the 2023 DARPAN Power Women of Influence Gala, shone a light on women having the power to inspire and uplift each other through social work in today's global era.

"A sincere thank you to DARPAN Magazine for having me at your Power Women of Influence Gala last night. What an honor it was to have the opportunity to meet such wonderful people & inspiring, strong women; your kindness, hospitality & support are most appreciated. Thank you for speaking on the importance of empowering women and allowing me to shine a light on my beloved Afghanistan.  It was truly an incredible evening with much-needed conversations."-Dr. Sakena Yacoobi, Humanitarian & Social Activist.