As British Columbia navigates a shifting economic landscape marked by global uncertainty, rising costs, and rapid population growth, Premier David Eby is focused on strategies that aim to strengthen housing access, bolster infrastructure, and ease financial pressure on British Columbians. In this in-depth conversation, the Premier discusses his government’s approach to short-term rentals in light of Vancouver hosting the FIFA World Cup, the rationale behind foreign buyer restrictions, what’s being done about the canceled grocery rebate, and progress on the long-awaited hospital in Surrey.
Rising Milton Keynes-based singer-songwriter Saloni has made a powerful mark with her debut EP Rani, seamlessly blending pop, R&B, and Bollywood influences to reflect her British Asian identity. The upcoming star is known for her eclectic mix of musical styles. Lauded for her versatile voice and ability to sing in over 10 languages, Saloni's track ‘Nee Gundellounna’ went viral, racking up over 5 million views. With Rani, she celebrates themes of empowerment and self-confidence, carving a unique space for herself in the global music scene while resonating deeply with South Asians worldwide.
The group that performed alongside Diljit Dosanjh at his Dil-Luminati Tour—VanCity Dance—is turning up the volume on tradition with high-energy Bhangra and Dhol classes across the Lower Mainland. DARPAN had a chance to talk to the team and learn more about their club, community, and future plans.
In a pool of over 6,000 applicants across Canada, Surrey’s Daisy Bains has emerged as one of just 36 recipients of the coveted Loran Scholarship, a $100,000 award that recognizes outstanding leadership, character, and service. A student of École Kwantlen Park Secondary, Daisy’s achievement is evidence of her sincerity, self-belief, and the power of staying rooted in values.
Punjabi names—Jaswinder, Rupinder, Sharnjeet, Harpinder, Gurparveen—carry the gravity of history and identity. Yet, sometimes, their multiple vowels leave others stumbling. So, we wring out the richness, condense them into Jas, Rup, Sharn, Harp, Gurp—names that fit neatly into mouths unaccustomed to the syllables of the land of five rivers.
