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Starting each January, we distribute the books for that year to all the children and hold classes
for them for six to seven Sundays so that they understand the books as well as the questions.

Numerous Sewadars are involved in this effort and they spend countless hours, some with
logistics, others with teaching the sessions and others with individual coaching. With the efforts
of all, participation has grown tremendously and now Silicon Valley has grown to encompass
three zones, with approximately 400-500 children participating annually. We have had challenges
post-pandemic but we are slowly climbing back to that numbers achieved before the pandemic.

The symposium's youth-focused approach has been particularly impactful, fostering a nurturing
environment where young participants, including my own daughter and son, have learned and
grown. Their participation has not only deepened their understanding of Sikh religion but has also
enriched their academic and personal development.

One of the unique aspects of the Hemkunt Symposium has been its annual venues, which have
taken us to new places each year, quite a few cities in the USA and to Europe. These experiences
have allowed us to combine pleasure with learning, exploring different places, cultures and
historical sites while actively participating in scholarly activities.

Reflecting on my journey with the Hemkunt Symposium, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities
it has provided and the relationships it has nurtured. From my early involvement to assuming
convener role, this experience has profoundly shaped my perspectives, instilling a steadfast
commitment to understanding Sikhism and promoting it.

Looking ahead, I am eager to continue contributing to the symposium's legacy, furthering its
mission of promoting cultural awareness and scholarly discourse. The journey has been
transformative, and I am honored to play a role in ensuring that the Hemkunt Foundation
continues to remain a beacon of inspiration and enlightenment for future generations.