It’s not every day life brings together an internationally recognized dance choreographer from India and a group of fun-seeking South Surrey seniors.
So Sean Bindra did.
Last weekend, the fourth-year marketing student used his KPU business skills to put on a feel-good performance by the SHIAMAK dance team – named after the renowned founder of the Shiamak dance school – at the Seniors Come Share Society, an organization that provides support services to isolated seniors.
“I saw this as a perfect opportunity to use my existing network base and do something positive with it for these seniors and their caregivers,” says Bindra. “Through the SHIAMAK Dance For Good program, my intention was to present them with a unique stress-free experience and to try and heal them through the magic of dance.”
The hour-long event Saturday afternoon garnered support from Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts, and BC Premier Christy Clark. It was an initiative the young Delta resident took within his co-op work placement, where he regularly implements various business concepts, as well as hones his communication and teamwork skills, all while gaining experience at an organization that supports the community.
“The Co-op program has given me opportunities to apply the knowledge I've received at KPU in a real business setting. The knowledge I have received at KPU has given me a good foundation, however, I feel that it is only when you apply knowledge that you are truly learning and growing as a person. In other words, the best way to learn is by doing something yourself,” says Bindra.
And this event wasn’t the only impressive thing the Bachelor of Business Administration student did this term.
“He single-handedly brought in over $8,500 worth of donations for our Volunteer Appreciation event,” the most anyone has ever raised in the organization's 36-year history, says Suzanne Taylor, Caregiver Outreach & Education Coordinator. “It surpassed all expectations and made our volunteers very happy. His dedication and work ethic are clearly demonstrated when another team member asks for assistance; he is always willing to help.”
“Sean was quick to embrace with enthusiasm anything that crossed his path. He has excellent communication skills and is extremely organized and reliable,” says Andrea Cox, Better at Home Coordinator with the Come Share Society.
The experience Bindra has gained outside of the classroom over the past few months was rewarding because of what he learned at university, both about business, and life.
“KPU has taught me a lot about understanding various business concepts, as well as how to communicate and interact in a professional manner. However, the most important knowledge KPU has passed on to me is reassurance for what my Dad has always told me: The importance of time management,” he explains. “My most favourite part about the Marketing program is that not only does it give me opportunities to work alongside a wide range of people with different backgrounds, but it also allows me to utilize my communication skills."
"Sean has been exposed to all facets of public relations, communications and social media," says his co-op instructor Anita Sangha. "His creativity, passion for marketing and excellence and his strong communication skills have impressed his employer, and make Sean stand out at his workplace."
Next for Bindra is graduation, and then the ability to pursue a career he's just as passionate about. "The Co-op program gives students opportunities to obtain valuable work experience that they can carry forward with them for the rest of their lives,” he says.
Information on the Seniors Come Share Society can be found at www.comeshare.ca. For more information on KPU’s co-op programs, visit www.kpu.ca/coop.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts, science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 18,000 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations. Learn more at www.kpu.ca.
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