Sukh Dhaliwal, a name that resonates with resilience, leadership, and engineering excellence, has emerged as a prominent figure in Canadian politics. Born on October 1, 1960, in Sujapur, Punjab, India, Dhaliwal’s journey from a small town in India to the corridors of Parliament Hill is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service.
Early Life of Sukh Dhaliwal: A Foundation of Values
Sukh Dhaliwal’s roots lie in a Sikh family, and his early experiences in Punjab laid the foundation for his future endeavors. In 1999, driven by a desire for a better life, he made the pivotal decision to emigrate to Canada, where he would later become a proud citizen in 2002.
As a businessman, Sukh Dhaliwal co-founded a successful land surveying company, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to community development.
His entry into municipal politics in Surrey, where he actively engaged with the Surrey Electors Team, demonstrated his ability to mobilize and connect with the community. Despite facing a setback in the 1999 municipal elections, Dhaliwal’s indomitable spirit remained unbroken.
Federal Politics: Triumphs and Challenges
Sukh Dhaliwal’s foray into federal politics saw him as the Liberal candidate for the Newton-North Delta riding in 2004. Although he faced a defeat, this setback did not deter him.
In 2006, Sukh Dhaliwal secured a significant victory, winning the seat by exactly 1,000 votes. His influence extended beyond electoral victories, as he played a pivotal role in supporting Michael Ignatieff during the 2006 Liberal leadership campaign.
However, the journey was not without controversy. Sukh Dhaliwal’s support for a convicted international drug trafficker raised eyebrows and drew attention. Nevertheless, his dedication to his constituents remained unshaken, evident in his re-election in 2008.
Setbacks and Comebacks: A Story of Resilience
The year 2011 marked a temporary halt in Dhaliwal’s political career when he lost his seat to Jinny Sims. Subsequently, facing tax evasion charges, he withdrew from the provincial election. Despite these challenges, Dhaliwal demonstrated resilience and determination.
In December 2014, Sukh Dhaliwal emerged victorious in the Liberal nomination for the newly-formed riding of Surrey—Newton, paving the way for his triumphant return to federal politics in the 2015 election. Defeating the NDP incumbent Jinny Sims, Dhaliwal secured the seat with 56 per cent of the vote, marking a remarkable comeback.
Engineering Excellence: A Unique Perspective
Sukh Dhaliwal’s professional journey as a civil engineer and land surveyor adds a unique perspective to his role as a parliamentarian. In an exclusive interview, he shared insights into his engineering background and its influence on his political career.
His father’s role as an electrical engineer inspired Dhaliwal to pursue civil engineering, driven by a fascination with community development. His commitment to earning his professional engineering license upon arriving in Canada reflects a sense of duty to contribute to the greater good.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond politics, Dhaliwal actively advocates for diversity within the engineering profession. Recognizing the need for increased gender diversity, he emphasizes the importance of prioritizing this within engineering governing bodies worldwide.
To young individuals contemplating a career in engineering, Dhaliwal highlights the unique challenges, creativity, and continuous learning that define the profession. His message to engineers considering public office underscores the crucial qualities engineers bring: meticulous attention to detail, a practical approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to the greater good.
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