A Surrey lawyer has made history as the first Sikh-Canadian to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Ajaypal Singh Dhaliwal achieved the feat in May 2026, and was honored by Surrey city council on June 30, 2026, with a certificate of recognition.
Historic Ascent and Recognition
Mayor Brenda Locke presented Dhaliwal with the certificate, praising his "remarkable demonstration of determination, resilience, discipline, and courage." She stated, "It is my great pleasure to recognize Ajay Singh Dhaliwal for the very extraordinary achievement that has inspired our community and certainly brought a lot of pride to the City of Surrey." Dhaliwal posed for a photo at the summit with a City of Surrey flag.
Dhaliwal, who moved to Surrey in 2010, expressed deep pride in his adopted city. "Although I was born and raised in a small village, Kasam Bhatti in Punjab, if there’s one place in the world outside my village that I am most proud to call home, it is Surrey," he said. He credited the community for his success: "Every one of you help me in different ways, encouraging me, training with me, believing in me, challenging me, and supporting me mentally, physically, and emotionally throughout the journey. I truly could not have done it without you."
Background and Career
Dhaliwal runs Dhaliwal Law Office in Surrey's York Centre, a hub for South Asian services. He studied law in India and practiced there before immigrating to Canada in 2007. He earned accreditation by studying at the University of Manitoba and passing the British Columbia bar in 2011. His practice areas include personal injury, commercial law, and real estate.
According to his firm's website, Dhaliwal enjoys hiking, table tennis, basketball, and gardening. He also loves travel and meeting people.
Community Inspiration
Mayor Locke called Dhaliwal an "inspiration," and he received a standing ovation in council chambers. Reflecting on his journey, Dhaliwal said, "I hope this achievement inspires others to dream big, work hard, and never give up, no matter where you come from. With determination, support and perseverance, even the highest mountain can be climbed."
