Kamaldeep (Kam) Singh Sandhu is using his talent for business development, improving the economic outlook for BC Indigenous communities.

The 2025 recipient of the University of the Fraser Valley’s Distinguished Alumni Award (DAA) is a graduate of UFV’s Bachelor of Business Administration program (2012). A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Aboriginal Finance Manager (CAFM); he works with more than 30 First Nations communities on Vancouver Island, supporting efforts to build financial independence and sustainable governance systems.

“What drew me to working with Indigenous communities was the connection I felt on a cultural level,” he says. “I was raised in Abbotsford in a multi-generational Punjabi household. My grandparents took care of us while my parents worked, and that’s how I learned our language, our stories, and our values. When I started working with Indigenous communities, I saw so many of those same values reflected back.”

“Indigenous communities take care of their elders, listen to them, and demonstrate a real connection to family that ties back to my childhood.”

At the heart of Kam’s work is a commitment to trust and respectful listening. He walks alongside communities as they create long-term strategies that reflect their own goals, values, and ways of knowing. Kam has joined First Nations’ negotiation teams for discussions with all levels of government. He’s assisted them in applying for funding, and his work has resulted in significant revenue flowing into communities.”

“Kam has been an exceptional partner to the Tseshaht First Nation, demonstrating remarkable leadership, expertise, and a genuine commitment to our community,” says Chief Ken Watts of Tseshaht First Nation. “His strategic vision and ability to navigate complex financial landscapes have earned him the respect and admiration of our community members.”

Kam grew up navigating two cultures and learning what it means to build bridges between them. His parents ran a small family business, taught him early on the importance of resilience, service, and staying grounded in community.

“It’s helped me as I connect with communities and approach challenges with curiosity and care.”

While still attending UFV, Kam launched a security company from the ground up. Within a year, he had built a 20-person team, secured 10 contracts, and created collaborative partnerships — experiences that helped shape the values he brings to leadership today. During his time at UFV, he served as vice-president of the Accounting Students of the Fraser Valley and was a board member of the Business Administration Student Association.

“UFV assisted in moulding who I am as a person, and how I lead others, giving me a strong foundation, not just academically but personally,” Kam says. “It’s helped me as I connect with communities and approach challenges with curiosity and care.”

“I want the next generation to feel empowered; to know they belong at the table, and that their voice matters.”

Through his career he has mentored many CPA articling students at accounting firm MNP, where he’s now a partner. Kam has encouraged his team members to attain the CAFM designation to better serve Indigenous communities. He firmly believes that leadership isn’t about authority, but about responsibility, impact, and integrity.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without mentorship,” Kam says. “I want the next generation to feel empowered; to know they belong at the table, and that their voice matters.”

Mamalilikulla First Nation Chief John Powell says Kam’s team can learn a lot from him.

“One of Kam’s most remarkable qualities is his ability to relate and connect personally with First Nations communities, and he approaches his work with cultural sensitivity and genuine respect for our traditions and values,” John says. “This personal connection has fostered trust and collaboration, making Kam not just a consultant, but a true ally to our community.”

At MNP, Kam is a vocal advocate for equity, inclusion, and reconciliation. He’s helped lead conversations on pay equity, cultural sensitivity, and Indigenous engagement, and has supported firm-wide participation in initiatives like Orange Shirt Day and the Moosehide Campaign.

Kam’s story is one of quiet leadership — of showing up consistently, building relationships rooted in respect, and believing deeply in the potential of others. His journey reminds us that real impact doesn’t come from accolades, but from staying connected to your purpose.

“At the core of everything I do is the simple fact that I care,” he says. “I want people to know they can pick up the phone and call me, and I’ll be there to support them. It’s really about partnership and giving back.”

WATCH: Learn about the other 2025 Alumni Award recipients.