This year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) marked an important milestone for us at the Brampton Board of Trade: one year since Jaipaul Massey-Singh took on the role of CEO. Jaipaul reflected on a transformative year of listening, learning, and leading. His heartfelt message to the room of business leaders and community advocates underscored our shift from asking, “What can we do for you?” to making an earnest plea: “What can we build together?”
In a year defined by both challenges and opportunities, Jaipaul has met with most, if not all, of the stakeholders present at the AGM. These conversations formed the bedrock of our direction for the coming year. We has spent the past year asking what you need, what you want, and where you see Brampton’s future. Now, it’s time for us to ask something of you. As we navigate uncertain economic times, let’s work together to create something that doesn’t just make Brampton an attractive destination for investment—but a more liveable, vibrant, and robust community for all.
As the relatively new Manager of Policy and Government Relations, I also took some time to address our members. I delivered key findings from this year’s Business Confidence Index survey. While confidence reached a historic 92% high in 2023, this year’s report revealed a sobering drop to 75%, reflecting heightened uncertainty as businesses brace for potentially rougher waters in 2025. Another interesting insight to note is that the third most cited business concern among those surveyed was negative external perceptions and bias towards Brampton. Given the city’s lack of media options, our story is often in the hands of folks that have no incentive to sing our praises. To what extend is this hurting business investment?
I also highlighted the importance of proactive engagement between businesses, policymakers, and the wider community to navigate these uncertain times. Despite the challenges, we have a unique opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and lead Brampton toward resilience and success.
Ansar Khan, BBOT’s Finance Manager, also shared updates on our finances. Though a transition year, BBOT is a good financial standing.
Outgoing chair Louis Vouloukos passed the torch to Kate Saldanha, who shared her vision for BBOT’s future. Her theme this year is “fostering community” with a recognition that our success is not just measured in economic metrics but in the strength of our community bonds.
We also bid a fond farewell to outgoing board members Daniel Lewis and Kanwar Dhanjal, whose dedication has been instrumental in BBOT’s journey. We warmly welcome the 2025 Board of Directors:
- Gabriel Lagunes
- Usha Srinavasan
- Paula Harvey
- Boyd Reid
- Kate Saldanha
- Amisha Moorjani
- Louis Vouloukos
- Deepinder Singh
- Upjit Khansal
- Mohit Sharma
- Fred Marques
- Jason Green
We also thank Councilor Gurpartap Toor for conducting the Oath of Office.
Looking Forward
As BBOT enters this next chapter, the commitment to fostering Brampton’s growth remains steadfast. Whether it’s advocating for infrastructure, supporting small businesses, or promoting equitable housing and transit solutions, BBOT is ready to partner with its members to build a stronger, more united Brampton. If you believe that Brampton deserves an advocate, particularly as we recognize that a negative reputation is a palpable business concern for many of you, then please support us and contribute to our vision.
This AGM was not just a reflection of the year gone by but a rallying call to action. Together, the business community can craft a brighter, more inclusive future. Let’s make it happen.
To learn more about BBOT’s initiatives or to get involved, email Vijai at vsingh@bramptonbot.com.
