‘Roots to Routes’ – A personal reflection on South Asian Heritage Month

My family is originally from Punjab, North India. Though I was born in England, a significant part of my upbringing, 15 years of my life, was spent in Punjab. Living there allowed me to stay deeply connected to my roots. I grew up surrounded by the vibrant colours, sounds, and flavours of Punjabi culture: eating traditional food, listening to folk songs, learning folk dances, and watching endless Bollywood movies.

It was a life immersed in heritage, and I loved every bit of it. 

Our move back to India was driven by a heartfelt reason: to be closer to my grandparents. I feel incredibly lucky to have had that time with them. Being the youngest in the family, I was everyone’s favourite—especially my grandfather’s. I treasured the time I spent with him and my grandmother, and those moments continue to shape who I am today. 

My grandparents often shared stories of their childhood, particularly their memories of the India-Pakistan Partition. He spoke of the fear, the upheaval, and the heartbreak— but also of the unity, kindness, and humanity that shone through during those dark times. Hearing his experiences, not as distant history but as deeply personal memories, brought the past to life in a way that textbooks never could. Through him, I understood the strength of community and the deep bonds that existed—and still exist—across borders. Despite being divided through Partition, there remains a great deal of love and shared memories between the two nations. 

Those years in Punjab were my roots—the foundation of my identity. But my journey didn’t stop there. Years later, moving back to England was an unexpected turning point. I faced a significant culture shock—suddenly surrounded by a world that felt unfamiliar, fast-paced, and far removed from the close-knit community I had grown up in. 

For the first time, I felt the need to shrink parts of myself to fit in. I found myself hiding my roots and heritage—the language, the clothes, even the stories—just to feel accepted. It was a confusing and isolating experience, and it made me question where I belonged. 

But that discomfort brought an important realisation: representation matters. Diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential. I realised how powerful it is to see people who reflect your culture, values, and lived experiences in everyday spaces, especially in education, healthcare, and leadership. I knew then that I wanted to help create those inclusive spaces for others, too. 

Over time, I stopped hiding and started embracing. I didn’t want to separate who I was from what I did. I wanted my career to reflect my values: compassion, equity, and belief in second chances. That led me to my route—a career in public health, where I support marginalised communities and advocate for accessible, inclusive services. 

Every step of my professional journey has been rooted in the lessons I learned from my heritage- from my family, my community, and my past. Now, I lead with those experiences, and they guide how I show up- for my team, the people I serve, and myself. I try to bring my full self-my roots and my values-into everything I do. 

To the Young South Asians Finding Their Way 

If you’re reading this and trying to figure out who you are in the midst of different expectations, cultures, and pressures—this is what I want you to know: 
Be proud of your roots. They are not something to hide—they are your power. The food you eat, the languages you speak, the festivals you celebrate, and the values you were raised with—these are strengths, not obstacles. 

You don’t have to choose between your heritage and your future. You can carry both. You can honour your past and break new ground. There is space for all of it. 

You are enough. You carry within you the resilience of generations who came before you. Take up space, speak your truth, and lead with pride. 

And most of all—give back. Lift others as you rise. Celebrate your culture. Share your story. Because when we honour our roots and walk our routes with intention, we don’t just grow—we help others grow too. 

“Roots to Routes” is more than just a theme. It’s a powerful reminder that our past and our purpose are connected. Our journeys aren’t always linear, but they are always guided by something deeper. 

This South Asian Heritage Month, I honour my past, celebrate my present, and continue walking my path with pride, knowing that my heritage is not just part of my story—it is the foundation of it.