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Sikh Heritage Celebration an `eye-opening' exhibit by Ian Holroyd Oakville Beaver Staff 23 | Friday, April 17, 2015 | OAKVILLE BEAVER | www.insideHALTON.com Jarnail Panesar came to Canada in 1966 with one bag slung over his shoulder and $50 in his pocket. Two years later, Panesar settled in Oakville, becoming one of the town's first Sikh residents. Little did he know that he was blazing a trail for thousands of other Sikh immigrants, who were also looking for a peaceful place to put down roots. "As far as opportunity is concerned, as far as acceptance in the community by our neighbours, I have no question, everyone has been superb," said the 74-year-old, reflecting on nearly 50 years in Oakville. April is an important month for Sikhs around the world. It's when Sikhs celebrate Vaisakhi, which fell on April 14 this year. This festival marks the founding of the Sikh community and its articles of faith. In Ontario, April is also Sikh Heritage Month and to celebrate, the Halton Sikh Cultural Association held a public reception April 8 at Oakville's Town Hall. The event, titled The Oakville Sikh Journey: 1967 to Present, attracted nearly 200 people and featured a panel discussion with Oakville's first Sikh settlers, awards recognizing local Sikh talent and guest speakers. "Sikh Canadians have lived in Oakville Sukhmeet Singh, Simrat Kaur, Ragini Singh and Ramneek Singh performed a traditional hymn generally sung to inspire soldiers before battle during a celebration to commemorate Ontario's Sikh Heritage Month at Town Hall last week. | photo by Jayson Mills - special to the Beaver the leading companies in its field. Now, Bajwa is planning his retirement and handing his business over to the next generation -- his son and his nephew. "It's my time to enjoy now," Bajwa said smiling. Charanjit Singh was awarded the Certificate of Excellence for his contributions to Oakville athletics and his work mentoring student athletes. Singh said he has seen a lot of changes in the 15 years he has lived in Oakville. Changes not only in the physical landscape, but also in the cultural landscape. "We are here today because our small Sikh community persevered against obstacles and challenges," Singh said. "We are here because the hard work and determination we put in has now woven our faith-based values into the fabric of this wonderful town. see Many on p.26 since 1967 and they represent a growing and dynamic population," said Pav Khalon, coorganizer and host of the event. "They have made significant contributions to the growth and prosperity of Oakville." One of those contributors is Gurcharan Singh Bajwa, who was called to the stage to accept the Business Excellence Certificate. Bajwa has lived in Oakville since 1980 and established his business here in 1993. 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