Network Spotlight - Sikh Surveyors

^{Sikh Surveyors visiting the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Exhibition with Sybil Taunton and Tomi Laguda from the RICS DEI Team}

Who formed the Sikh Surveyors network and when?

The Sikh Surveyors was founded in 2020 by Koopmans investment agent Aman Singh Parmar, CBRE associate director Tanveer Singh Mokha MRICS and London Borough of Waltham Forest asset manager Karran Singh MRICS.

What inspired the formation of the network?

Throughout our careers, we have had the privilege of attending numerous events held by groups representing other networks in surveying and the built environment, and we decided it was time to form one that represented Sikhs.

There is lack of knowledge about the Sikh faith in the profession, and we are looking to educate and collaborate with all stakeholders. We want to encourage and support future generations of Sikh surveyors.

What is the aim of the network?

It was established as a platform for collaboration, networking and mentoring in our community and the wider profession, in addition to engaging with bodies such as RICS, RIBA and the Property Institute to raise awareness and increase representation.

Sikhism is a religion based on equality, and we work in a sector that has rampant inequalities in terms of gender and ethnicity pay gaps. We strive to ensure equality throughout the sector.

Is the network UK-based or global?

The network only focuses on the UK at present, but we hope to be global one day! The Sikh diaspora is found mainly in the UK, Australia, Canada and the US.

How can other Sikh surveyors join or get involved with the network?

You can follow our LinkedIn page, or contact either Aman or Tanveer for further information. We are always looking for new members.

How often does the network meet?

The Sikh Surveyors hold multiple events each year, with annual celebrations of Vaisakhi and Bandi Chhor Diwas in addition to education and social networking. Our most recent event was a visit to the Wallace Collection’s exhibition on the life of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

In collaboration with charity NishkamSWAT, the network has been taking part in Seva to help feed the homeless twice this year, and will do so once a quarter from next year. Members hiked Mount Snowdon in support of Khalsa Aid earlier this year, and we will arrange further charity events in future.

This year and next we will also be hosting joint events with other RICS groups and networks. In 2025, we hope to host our first AGM.

^{The Sikh Surveyors with NishkamSWAT providing food, hot drinks and supplies to the homeless in Central London at their first Seva event as a group.}

What has been the experience of network members as Sikhs working in surveying and the wider built environment sector?

Sikh surveyors often face racism, cultural misunderstandings and lack of representation in senior roles. We have no representation on governing bodies in the sector and will look to change this. Strong community networks can provide crucial support, but to effect change we require greater engagement from senior built environment leaders.

How has the network supported its members?

Aviva investment manager Sam Gadar MRICS says: ‘It provides much-needed representation: seeing people like you from similar backgrounds, in roles you aspire to, makes you believe you can achieve too. The network is supporting diversity, equity and inclusion, helping our profession become more welcoming for everyone.’

Cushman & Wakefield graduate surveyor Gunveer Kataria adds: ‘Being part of the Sikh Surveyors has been a great experience for me as someone who is relatively new to the surveying world. Being able to meet and network with peers from a similar background has helped me settle into a profession that is not as diverse as we would like it to be.’

Roebuck AM investment analyst Mokam Sihra concludes: ‘The Sikh Surveyors allows members to stay in touch with their heritage and culture while also providing an opportunity to network with like-minded individuals working in similar professions. My experience has been very positive, and I’m looking forward to future initiatives and events.’

What do you think organisations in the built environment could be doing better to support Sikh employees, clients and communities?

Organisations can and should implement cultural competency training, create mentorship programmes, promote diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and policies, and engage with Sikh communities. We have seen reverse mentoring programmes work very well with other representation groups, and would be delighted to provide mentors for companies.

What advice do you have for Sikhs entering the profession or trying to set up their own surveying businesses?

You should network actively and keep learning. Be proud of your cultural identity and seek mentors and partners. If you’re planning on starting your own business, leverage your background to find niche markets.

Is there anything else you would like to share about the network?

We are always looking for new members. The vast majority of our growth has been through referrals, so if you work with a prospective member please do mention our group to them! Sikhism is a religion based on equality for all, and therefore we would welcome members of all communities to join us should they wish.