Richmond-based educator Dr. Sandy Dhami has been awarded the Order of British Columbia, the province’s highest form of recognition. She is being celebrated for more than 25 years of work with neurodivergent children both in Canada and abroad.
The announcement was made on B.C. Day, as the province named 15 new recipients of the prestigious honor. The award, created in 1989, recognizes outstanding contributions made by residents in a variety of fields. It highlights those whose work has had a deep and lasting impact across the province and beyond.
Dr. Dhami has supported children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other learning challenges. Her mission has always been to ensure these children receive fair and inclusive education and care. Her work has helped break down barriers and improve lives across British Columbia.
As an educator, clinical counsellor, and mental health expert, Dhami has used science-backed methods in her work. Her doctorate in childhood attachment supports her use of cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment-based therapy, and play therapy. These approaches help children build emotional resilience and better connect with others.
Over the years, she has also brought social and emotional learning programs to schools across B.C. These programs teach students important skills like mindfulness, conflict resolution, and self-esteem. Her methods have been praised for helping children feel more confident and calm in school settings.
Dr. Dhami’s efforts go far beyond classrooms. She has led mental health workshops and training for educators and families across Canada and internationally. Her work is known for being inclusive and culturally aware. In particular, she has supported families from South Asian, First Nations, and other Asian communities. Her outreach has helped reduce stigma and made mental health care more accessible to diverse families.
Throughout her career, Dhami has learned from top experts and groups including the Pacific Autism Family Network, the Michael Cuccione Childhood Cancer Foundation, and West Point Grey Academy. These experiences helped shape her leadership style, centered around compassion and inclusion.
In a press release from the provincial government, Dr. Dhami was praised for her ability to create safe and welcoming environments for all children. Her work shows how strong leadership and empathy can help young people reach their full potential.
Lieutenant Governor Wendy Cocchia, who serves as Chancellor of the Order of British Columbia, shared her thoughts on this year’s awardees.
“It is a profound privilege to recognize 15 outstanding individuals being welcomed into the order,” she said. “Their dedication, compassion, and vision have left a lasting mark on communities across our province. By lifting others and leading with purpose, they are helping to shape a stronger, more inclusive British Columbia for generations to come.”
Premier David Eby also congratulated the recipients in a public statement.
“Every one of you has made life better for your fellow British Columbians through your leadership, innovation, and advocacy,” he said. “Your contributions inspire all of us to do great things and give back to our communities.”
Dr. Dhami’s recognition with the Order of British Columbia is a milestone that reflects her deep commitment to education, mental health, and social inclusion. Her work has touched the lives of countless families and children, and her legacy continues to grow with each new step she takes.
