The Power Women of Influence Gala 2026 will feature an inspiring and dynamic panel of leaders and changemakers, including Dr. Ramneek Dosanjh, physician and global health advocate; Dr. Satwinder Kaur Bains, scholar and founder of the South Asian Studies Institute; Farkhunda Muhtaj, Afghan-Canadian footballer and humanitarian activist; Diana Hayden, international actor and Miss World 1997; and Simi Sara, award-winning journalist and radio host. The evening’s conversation will be moderated by veteran journalist and media strategist Robin Gill.
Dr. Ramneek Dosanjh
Dr. Ramneek Dosanjh is a physician, author, and influential healthcare leader whose work spans clinical practice, policy reform, and social advocacy. A former President of Doctors of BC, she broke barriers as the first Punjabi woman to lead the 122-year-old organization. During her tenure, she championed primary care reform, gender equity, and culturally safe healthcare systems across the province. Currently serving as Executive Vice President of North America for the Medical Women’s International Association, Dr. Dosanjh represents women physicians on the global stage, advocating for healthcare equity and the empowerment of women and girls. Her leadership and advocacy continue to shape conversations around accessible, inclusive, and patient-centered healthcare both in Canada and internationally.
Dr. Satwinder Kaur Bains
Dr. Satwinder Kaur Bains is an acclaimed scholar, community advocate, and founder of the South Asian Studies Institute at the University of the Fraser Valley. Her work has been instrumental in documenting and amplifying the experiences of South Asian communities in Canada, exploring themes of migration, identity, race, and belonging. Beyond academia, she has spent decades supporting community development initiatives, working closely with nonprofit organizations focused on immigrant settlement, cross-cultural dialogue, and equity. Through research, education, and advocacy, she continues to champion inclusion and deeper understanding across communities.
Farkhunda Muhtaj
Farkhunda Muhtaj is an Afghan-Canadian professional footballer, humanitarian, and social activist whose work extends far beyond the pitch. As Captain of the Afghanistan Women’s National Football Team and a player with Calgary WILD FC, she uses sport as a powerful tool for advocacy and empowerment. Muhtaj gained international recognition for her efforts to help evacuate Afghanistan’s youth women’s football team during the 2021 crisis. Through her nonprofit work and global partnerships, she supports refugees and newcomers while championing gender equality, education, and opportunity for youth through sport.
Diana Hayden
Diana Hayden rose to international prominence when she was crowned Miss World in 1997, becoming one of the few Indian women to win the prestigious global title. Since then, she has built a diverse career spanning acting, writing, and public speaking while advocating for causes related to women’s empowerment, child welfare, and health awareness. With formal training from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, Hayden has used her platform to challenge stereotypes and promote the idea that true beauty lies in intelligence, empathy, and purpose.
Simi Sara
Simi Sara is one of Vancouver’s most respected voices in journalism, with more than three decades of experience across print, television, and radio. Currently the host of Mornings with Simi on 980 CKNW, she is known for her thoughtful and engaging conversations with newsmakers and community leaders. Over the course of her career, Sara has earned multiple national and regional journalism awards, including recognition from the RTDNA and the Canadian Radio Awards. Her approach combines sharp insight with a deep commitment to informing and connecting with her audience.
Robin Gill
Moderating the evening’s conversation is Robin Gill, a seasoned journalist and communications strategist with nearly three decades in broadcast news. Formerly a national correspondent and anchor for Global National, she has reported on some of the most defining moments in Canadian news. Today, as founder of Robin Gill Communications, she works with leaders across sectors to develop strategic messaging, media training, and thought leadership initiatives.
The 4th annual DARPAN Power Women of Influence 2026 event, proudly hosted by DARPAN Magazine, will take place on Saturday, March 21st at the Vancouver Convention Centre.
The evening will begin with a red-carpet reception and networking hour, followed by exclusive Power Talks from each panelist sharing personal insights and journeys. The program will continue with a dynamic panel discussion addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities facing women today, along with captivating entertainment and a gourmet dinner experience.
Event Highlights:
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Venue: Vancouver Convention Centre
Format: Red Carpet Reception & Networking | Power Talks | Panel Discussion | Entertainment & Dinner
For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or further information regarding the event, please contact Gurvinder@darpanmagazine.com or Ramneek@darpanmagazine.com.
