Perminder’s journey mirrors the story of countless Surrey residents: arriving in Canada with hope, tireless work ethic, and the discovery of strength in a community that embraces diversity, opportunity and resilience. The city is where he grew into a leader, mentor, and community builder – and proud grandfather — in the place to which he owes so much.
As President and CEO of Lifewise Financial Group Inc., Perminder spent over two decades leading organizations that now support hundreds of representatives and their families across Canada. He built a network of companies from the ground up, guided by the same values that define Surrey’s spirit: honesty, hard work and respect for people and the value they both earn and deserve.
Mr. Chohan is the founding Director of the Perminder Chohan Foundation, past Director with the Surrey Board of Trade, a current Director of the South Asian Business Association and past President-Elect of the Surrey Newton Rotary Club. Importantly, he is a board member of South Asian Health Fund, celebrating a 50-year legacy. Perminder is also a recipient of the Excellence in Business Leadership Award from The Times of Canada, a best-selling author writing about his expertise in financial services and leadership success, and an Emmy-winning producer recognized for his contributions to media and narrative storytelling.
Perminder’s greatest impact has always been out in the community he calls home. For decades, he has been a focused, determined philanthropist — providing endowment scholarships to students in the Entrepreneurial Leadership Program at Kwantlen University — supporting youth programs, cultural organizations, seniors and newcomer outreach, all while helping address the plight of families facing hardship.
From sponsoring local sports teams to contributing to community events and standing beside families during difficult times, Perminder consistently shows up for Surrey. This activity is a simple testament to a lifelong commitment shaped by the city that helped him evolve and grow.
As Surrey itself grows into one of Canada’s largest, most dynamic and diverse cities, Perminder believes our city deserves leadership that understands its people, their day-to-day challenges and our collective, unlimited potential. He has seen the city evolve, neighbourhood-by-neighbourhood and family by family, and is committed with Imagine Surrey to strategic, sustainable growth modelling that puts safety and liveability first.
Perminder is not running for Surrey City Council as a career politician, but as a neighbour, a father and grandfather, a professional and personal mentor and dedicated resident. With a lifetime of leadership and community-rooted service, he is ready to help shape a future where residents and their families feel valued, supported and proud to call Surrey home.