About
the topic:
The words of poet laureate, Rabindranath Tagore are the inspiration for the title of my presentation:
| "To study a banyan tree, you must not only know its main stem in its own soil but also trace the growth of its greatness in the further soil. For then only can you know the true nature of its vitality." |
India is that great banyan tree whose roots have grown so strong and deep in Canada. I have made Canada my home for the past 47 years and I reflect on the vitality and achievements of the Indian Diaspora in Canada.
I believe that with the maturing of our community here in Canada we must reflect on our role and contribution to Canada as well as being the conduits in forging important cultural, busines and trade links to India. I trace my own journey in the arts and my work in building an appreciation for India’s performing arts. Parallel to my life in the arts, has been the advocacy role I played in the Air India Inquiry.
 About
the speaker: Lata Pada is Artistic Director of SAMPRADAYA Dance Creations, an award-winning professional South Asian dance company. Originally from India, Lata has made Canada her home for the past 47 years. Lata holds a Masters in Dance from York University and is an Adjunct Professor at York University. In 2011, Lata was conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman ("Indian Diaspora Honour") by the President of India, the highest civilian honour for non-resident Indians. Lata was conferred the Order of Canada in January 2009 and holds the distinction of being the first South Asian artist to receive this award.
Under her artistic stewardship, Lata has created one of Canada’s leading, innovative and progressive dance organizations. She has initiated unique arts learning, community outreach, cultural leadership and mentorship projects for performing artists. She has trained a generation of dancers who perform professionally on international stages. Lata is an articulate speaker and workshop leader - through her art, she has served youth, new immigrants and marginalized communities.
Lata is a founding member of the South Asian Advisory Committee at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. She has served on the Board of the Canadian Dance Assembly and is the Founding Member of the South Asian Dance Alliance of Canada. Lata has served on the Advisory Committees of Cultural Pluralism in the Performing Arts Movement, York University’s Fine Arts, theCanada Council, Ontario Arts Council, Toronto Arts Council and the Laidlaw Foundation. |
