Surrey LIP Member Spotlight: Ravi Basi

The Surrey Local Immigration Partnership (LIP) is a community partnership made up of more than 30 council members from a variety of groups including cultural, business, academic, health and employment services, who work to help immigrants and refugees thrive in Surrey, BC. Through their collaborative efforts, knowledge and unique skills, each and every one of our council members helps focus our work on local issues and provide the information and data required to make a meaningful impact and build truly inclusive communities. 

In honour of the work they do, the Surrey LIP would like to spotlight our council members to get to know them a little more. This week, we’re spotlighting Ravi Basi of Surrey Libraries.

Here’s a little more about Ravi.

What is your current position title?

I’m currently the Manager of Multicultural Services at Surrey Libraries.

Where can someone visit Surrey Libraries?

We currently have several branches around Surrey including in Surrey City Centre, Clayton, Cloverdale, Fleetwood, Guildford, Newton, Ocean Park, Port Kells, Semiahmoo and Strawberry Hill.

What do you think the biggest challenge immigrants and refugees face in Surrey today?

I would have to say it the biggest challenge is the lack of equitable and timely access to healthcare, employment, technology, housing, and transportation. Also, dealing with racism, misconceptions and isolation.

What are your hopes and/or vision for a diverse, inclusive and thriving Surrey?

My vision of a diverse, inclusive and thriving Surrey is one in which everyone feels safe, respected, valued and empowered; like it is home.

Coffee or tea? 

My day starts with Indian cha.

What’s your favourite food?

I could not live without Indian food! Even pizza has to have Indian spices with ginger, garlic and cilantro.

What are you reading right now?

I am reading Misfits: A Personal Manifesto, by Michaela Coel and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis.

Author: SurreyLIP