Sixty-two young Sikh adults have returned to their communities after completing the 24th annual Sidak Leadership Program. Hosted by the Sikh Research Institute (SikhRI) from 26 July to 8 August, the immersive program was held at the Khalsa Centre in Miracle Valley, British Columbia, Canada.

Attendees of the 2026 cohort came from the US, Canada, the UK, and New Zealand. What began with orientation and shared meals grew into a community shaped by reflection, discussion, shared learning, and new relationships. 

Harinder Singh, Interim CEO of SikhRI, reflected: “In 2026, 14 of our 19 facilitators were Sidak alumni. This reflects how the program is cultivating Sikhi-based virtues and skills and building a pipeline of peer-based facilitators. What began as a space to develop Gurmat-inspired leadership is becoming a community where that leadership is chiseled, empowered, and forwarded. That is the Servant-Leader model of the founder-Gurus in practice.”

Since 2003, Sidak has grown from one track with 15 attendees to three tracks with 62 attendees in 2026. Donor support has also enabled SikhRI to move Sidak from a fee-based to a fee-free program, expanding access to an immersive learning experience that develops Gurmat-inspired leadership.

The program’s curriculum is anchored in the Gurmat (Guru’s Way) framework of Bani (wisdom), Tavarikh (history), and Rahit (lifestyle). Foundational courses include Sikhi 101, Sikhi 201, and Gurbani 101. The impact of this intentional, immersive experience was deeply felt. Participants shared:

“I have absolutely loved my time here at Sidak and the learnings. The content we covered helped give me the context to have a more well-rounded understanding of how to make decisions rooted in Asa ki Var, History, and Panthic views.” — Tisha Kaur, Sikhi 101 Attendee

“The sessions are excellent. By using the framework to grapple with history, we explored a nuanced and Gurbani-centered way to understand decision-making. I think the course content which has been picked out is exceptional.” — Navjot Singh, Sikhi 201 Attendee

“I thoroughly enjoyed our Gurbani 101 sessions so much. It offered a more intimate engagement with Gurbani and empowered us to at least attempt working on our own translations rather than always relying on apps and other online resources.” — Radhika Kaur, Gurbani 101 Attendee

“At Sidak, leadership is not taught as a separate skill. It is part of how Sidakers learn to bring Gurmat into the way they think, make decisions, work with others, and respond to the world around them. The classroom is one part of that learning. The conversations, activities, and experience of living and learning together give them opportunities to put that learning into practice,” said Anupreet Kaur, Sidak Lead. 

A daily rhythm of Sabad-centered discipline shaped the Sidak experience. Morning and evening divans included path, kirtan, Hukam reflections, and contemplative sharing. These practices continued on-site and off-site throughout the program. Sidak lasts two weeks, but the investment is in what follows: how Sidakers carry Gurmat-informed learning, relationships, and leadership into the communities in which they live and serve. 

Registrations for 2027 will open on 1 December 2026. Program details at SikhRI.org/Sidak.

Sikhi 101 track is closed.
No new applications are being accepted.

We are still accepting applications for Sikhi 201 and Gurbani 101 Tracks! Apply to Sidak Today - Click Here

Sidak alum Navnit Kaur chats with Sidak facilitator Jasleen Kaur, reflecting on her past Sidak experience—becoming more open-minded, meeting a diverse sangat from around the world, discovering the beauty of taking a Hukamnama for the first time, and ultimately becoming softer with herself and with others.

Listen to the podcast: Click Here

Sidak alum Ikroop Singh chats with Sidak Facilitator, Jasleen Kaur and reflects on his past Sidak experience—from moving through initial discomfort to having deep conversations, forming meaningful bonds, and becoming more compassionate. 

Listen to the podcast - Click Here

In 2025, Sidak was offered fee-free. This program integrates Surat (awareness) and Ruh (spirit), guiding participants toward a Guru-centered way of being. Facilitators model these elements, encouraging participants to do the same with depth and intention.

Sidak brings young Sikhs (ages 18–39) together to learn, reflect, and grow in community. Through immersive sessions and shared experiences, participants explore Gurbani, leadership, and what it means to be a lifelong learner.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Sidak 2026 will be completely fee-free—making this transformative journey accessible to all.

Apply Today: https://sikhri.org/sidak 

64 Sidakers, 15 Facilitators (80% Alumni)