About Sukhmani Haven

Canada has experienced a tremendous boom in international students over the last decade. Many of these students hail from Punjab. 30% of the students at Sheridan College are Punjabi. Attracted by the prospect of a future in a rich country they receive initial funding from their parents, many of whom are of modest backgrounds and have sold some of their property or go into considerable debt to fund the education of their children. The majority of the students use agents who are paid commissions by institutions in Canada. The information as to the ability of the students to earn a decent living to cover their expenses and the prospect of decent employment is often false. From what started as a journey of hope for the future often results in a path fraught with despair. The students find themselves unable to make ends meet especially living in Ontario which has some of the most unaffordable housing in the world. Many of the students -especially women -find themselves economically and physically vulnerable, facing exploitation at work. Post-secondary institutions have garnered substantial revenues and yet have failed to provide the necessary social infrastructure to support the students. Sukhmani has decided to apply the social and financial balm that these students desperately need.  

Sukhmani will provide:  Accommodation, financial support, necessities of life, community counseling, a Help Line.   

Sukhmani will advocate for:  Fair employment policies, protection from exploitation, government funding for social infrastructure, reduction of tuition, reform of roles of agents.