Surrey and White Rock’s business community has entered a new era with the official launch of the Surrey White Rock Business Board. The organization was formed by merging the Surrey Board of Trade and the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce.
CEO Joslyn Young shared the news with members on August 13, calling it an “exciting new chapter” for local businesses. She confirmed that federal approval from Corporations Canada is complete, and the organization is now operating as one entity. The final step, Governor-in-Council review and issuance of the Order in Council, is pending.
The transition will roll out in phases, Young said. Some changes will take effect immediately, while others, including a brand launch, are scheduled for October. “Together, we are building a strong, united voice for business in Surrey and White Rock,” Young said.
Young, a South Surrey resident, became CEO in March, succeeding Anita Huberman, who left after 31 years. She urged local businesses to diversify their trade portfolios. “The rest of the world wants to do business with us. Maintaining strong, trusted relationships is key, but diversification ensures growth and resilience,” she explained.
Recently, Young attended a cross-border conference to discuss trade challenges and opportunities. She noted the political difficulties highlighted by the U.S. Ambassador to Canada but stressed that strong business relationships and strategic planning will help the region navigate uncertainties.
To support members, SWRBOT will host a session on September 11 focused on CUSMA compliance, helping businesses align with Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement rules. Young also announced a fall “Listening Tour” consisting of member roundtables to hear directly from businesses about challenges, ideas, and visions for the future.
Networking events are already planned. The next Summer Sizzle event is on August 26 at Milestones South Point, with tickets starting at $30. A New Member Induction Breakfast will follow on September 18 at Civic Hotel.
Board members of the newly formed organization were introduced on June 18 at a milestone AGM held at the Diamond 5 Clubhouse Restaurant in South Surrey. Rory Morgan of KSW Lawyers will serve as chair, supported by vice-chair Roger Steers of RJC Engineers and immediate past-chair Baljit Dhaliwal of TJ’s Education & Safety Training Corp.
The board also includes directors representing a diverse range of local businesses: Amrita Bhogal (Sunrise Kitchens), Scott Brown (Gandalf Holdings), Gurjinder Bhurji (Signature Real Estate Group), Nicky Dhaliwal (Blueprint at UBC), Richard Fung (Shoppers Drug Mart), Harp Khela (Harp Khela Real Estate Group), Anthony Manning (White Rock Museum & Archives), Heather Martin (Comfort Keepers), John Michener (Port of Bellingham), Sasha Ramnarine (Remedios & Company), Amar Sanghera (KPMG), Mike Spiess (Ashdown Capital), and Louise Tremblay (Brella Community Services Society).
Young emphasized that the unified board will offer a stronger, collective voice for the region’s business community. She encouraged members to participate in upcoming events and roundtables, highlighting that collaboration and engagement will guide SWRBOT’s strategy and initiatives.
The merger represents a milestone for Surrey and White Rock businesses, aiming to streamline services, amplify advocacy, and foster growth opportunities across the region. Members can expect a steady rollout of new programs, brand initiatives, and strategic support over the coming months.
By merging resources and expertise, the Surrey White Rock Business Board positions itself as a key driver of local economic growth. Young’s leadership and the board’s diverse membership aim to ensure that businesses of all sizes can navigate global markets while benefiting from strong community ties.
With events, member engagement programs, and a clear focus on trade diversification, the organization is setting a foundation for long-term resilience and growth for Surrey and White Rock’s business community.
