Dear Friends,

SABA Toronto continues to evolve.

Given an impending leave, Sudevi Mukherjee-Gothi has stepped down from her position as President.  I will serve as SABA’s President for the next two (2) years.

To encourage SABA’s continued evolution and the participation of newer members of the Bar, long standing Board members Thomas Santram and Shahana Kar have stepped down from their respective Board positions.

SABA thanks Sudevi, Tom and Shahana for their generous and passionate support of SABA from its inception. SABA would not be where it is today without their efforts.

SABA looks ahead to an exciting and limitless future.  We have expanded our Board of Directors, electing new Directors, each with a passion for serving and promoting our community. 

During the term of the new Board, SABA Toronto will look to expand its reach and influence and add more value to its members.  We will build on the following core pillars of SABA’s existence:

• Recognizing and celebrating South Asian achievement in the legal profession;
• Providing support and opportunities for career growth to South Asian lawyers;
• Engaging as advocates for the rights and interests of South Asians in Canadian society;
• Creating value and empowerment for social and charitable organizations focused on improving the lives of South Asians.

We have identified increased participation and communication with members as SABA’s core area of focus for the balance of 2011.  We are working towards an updated website and improving our accessibility through social media, including Linked-In, Facebook and Twitter.  Planning for a 2011 Gala that exceeds everyone’s expectations is well underway.

In 2012, our members can look forward to events that improve our legal skills, create career opportunities and give back to a community that, in many ways, desperately needs the support and voice that we, as lawyers, are able to give.  It is our hope that every South Asian legal professional in the GTA will join SABA so that it can continue its growth into a relevant and meaningful professional association. 

SABA Toronto sits on a horizon of exciting change and opportunity.  There is much we can do as an organization and for our community.  However, our existence and success depends on the passion and efforts of volunteers.  This includes not only our Board of Directors, but our members. We want and need to hear from you.  If you believe in the importance and impact of SABA, reach out, get involved and let’s grow together.  
 
Rishi Bandhu
President