Gurnoor’s Story

In the bustling halls of Abbotsford Traditional Middle School and later Abbotsford Traditional Secondary School (ATSS), Gurnoor Sidhu began her journey that would shape her passion and career for community service and leadership. Excelling in many areas from academics to sports, her high school and post-secondary years were a time of growth, challenges, and invaluable experiences, leading her to where she is today.

FROM CHALLENGES TO TRIUMPHS

Throughout her time at ATSS, Gurnoor consistently strived for excellence in all subjects, earning top student awards and recognition. Beyond academics, she was deeply involved in extracurricular activities, including volunteering with the Key Club and as a medical unit visitor at Abbotsford Regional Hospital, where she demonstrated the importance of compassion, community engagement and collaboration.

One of the challenges she faced in high school was being taken seriously as a student. Despite proposing strategies to address specific community issues to local leaders, she often encountered skepticism due to her age. However, she persevered and became a part of the West Abbotsford Youth Action Group, earning the trust of her peers and mentors. Her determination is also what lead her to earn her black belt in taekwondo in 2016 as well as becoming a provincial gold medallist while on her path to earn her black belt. 

A SPECIAL MOMENT OF RECOGNITION & REWARD

At her grade 12 convocation ceremony, Gurnoor was awarded the Fraser Valley Indo-Canadian Business Association Award via Abbotsford Community Foundation’s (ACF) Student Award Program. Gurnoor felt that this was a humbling experience that not only contributed to her post-secondary education but also served as validation of her commitment to community service and leadership.

Gurnoor pursued her post-secondary education at the University of the Fraser Valley, specializing in Criminal Justice and Sociology. Her education has enabled her to pursue a career with the Ministry of Children and Family Development where she continues to work towards creating positive change in our community.

LEADERSHIP BEYOND BOUNDARIES

Gurnoor’s commitment to community service continued beyond high school, as she became involved in various leadership roles, including the Public Safety Advisory Committee at the City of Abbotsford and as a council member of the Company of Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs at the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce.

In Abbotsford’s most recent municipal election in October 2022, Gurnoor ran for city council to serve her community at a higher level. She felt incredibly humbled to have received the trust and support of 6,428 community members who voted for her 22-year old self and that they believed in her ability to serve them and represent them. Although her public profile may not have been as extensive as some, she continues to be driven by a deep sense of gratitude for the community’s confidence in her.

A VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Looking ahead, Gurnoor envisions further career growth and a return to a run for city council in the future. Her commitment to collaborative efforts reflects a desire to make Abbotsford and beyond a better place for all. This is also evident as her story comes full circle, recently taking a role as committee member of ACF’s Student Awards Committee.

Gurnoor took a moment to express her gratitude and acknowledges the unwavering support of her parents and the community. She is also thankful to the Fraser Valley Indo-Canadian Business Association and all the donors who contributed to the scholarship. She strongly believes in the importance of getting involved in community initiatives, regardless of age, for the betterment of all.

To learn more about how we continue to support graduating students through our Student Awards Program, click here.