Surrey, BC
Manpreet Dhesi
I’m Manpreet Dhesi, an undergraduate student studying Business Commerce at UBC’s Sauder School of Business. As a planning executive for the Folk Nach Bhangra Competition, I’m passionate about celebrating dance, culture, and community. I love creating spaces where youth can connect with their roots, build confidence, and express themselves through the arts. My work is driven by a deep appreciation for Punjabi heritage and a desire to make cultural events more inclusive and empowering for the next generation.
Folk Nach Bhangra Competition
Folk Nach Bhangra Competition is a cultural dance competition that celebrates traditional Punjabi folk dance while empowering youth through performance, mentorship, and community connection. The project brings together dancers from across British Columbia in a vibrant showcase of heritage, creativity, and passion. Through an accessible and inclusive platform, Folk Nach highlights the rich legacy of Bhangra, builds leadership among youth, and fosters intergenerational pride in Punjabi culture.
About this Project
Communities Served
My project will involve and/or impact the following communities:
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
When it comes to community impact projects, the UN has created 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These are the Sustainable Development Goals associated with my project.
How the project works
Folk Nach runs annually and includes outreach, auditions, and a live-stage competition. Teams are mentored by experienced dancers, and the event is supported by local vendors, volunteers, and community partners. Planning begins 4–6 months prior to competition day.
Project Impact
Folk Nach has reached over 500+ audience members and engaged more than 150 youth dancers, judges, and volunteers. The event promotes cultural preservation, mental well-being, and confidence building. It provides youth a safe space to express themselves and fosters deeper community belonging through shared cultural pride.
Project Mission
Folk Nach aims to preserve Punjabi folk traditions while empowering youth to celebrate culture through Bhangra. The competition’s mission is to create an inclusive and community-based platform where youth leadership, mentorship, and cultural identity thrive.
Project Team
Led by passionate youth and mentors with a shared love for Bhangra and community.
- Exec Planning Team
- Muskaan Aulakh
- Kimrit Teja
- Harveen Sandhu
- Gurnoor Sandhu
- Taranpreet Sangha
- Manpreet Dhesi
- Jaskaran Dhesi
- Shaibaj Aulakh, Sahibaan Aulakh & Hasrat Sahota
- Large Mentorship Team + Large Volunteer Team
Video
FNBC X Mela Punjabiyaan Da
Optional Photo Gallery
Donate to Sprout to support fellows
Support young social innovators by donating to the Sprout Ideas Fund, providing capacity-building and resources needed to launch projects that create positive social change.
Donate Now