History of SAA

South Asian Alliance (SAA) was founded in 1999, by individuals from University of Toronto Mississauga, University of Toronto Scarborough and York University. Their aim was to unite, and build a tight knit South Asian student community with the universities in Toronto and Ontario. They recognized the large populations, and the need for the introduction of a South Asian organization that would act as an outlet to providing events for people to meet each other while still preserving the rich culture. It would also act as a means for the greater community to learn about, understand and celebrate the South Asian Culture. University of Toronto St. George became a chapter in 2000, while McMaster University and Ryerson followed. SAA has now added its newest chapter at the University of Guelph-Humber, making them the seventh addition. Currently, South Asian Alliance is comprised of 7 chapters, and 10,000 members. SAA members act as a community, as friends, and as an invaluable support system throughout university, and life.


Growth of SAA

South Asian Alliance has grown immensely in its 10 years of existence. From three chapters it has grown to include 7 major University’s in Toronto, and from 600 members to over 10,000 and growing. It’s capacity has reached a level, where SAA is able to throw successful events again and again through an enormous amount of member appreciation and support. SAA members are proud to be part of the organization and look forward to events that occur all year long. We have been recognized in the media and the South Asian community for our contribution, and are often contacted for our support and collaboration on events.

South Asian Alliance has also grown – not only in size, but also in pride and spirit. With our increasing presence on all seven campuses, and events that all students are able to relate to – there is a larger interest about our organization on the campuses. In the future, we hope to expand South Asian Alliance all across Ontario and eventually branching out of the province. Currently, we are building a structure, marketing strategy, and action plan for the next 5 years to ensure that South Asian Alliance continues to grow. By creating awareness and branding our organization, other Universities can learn about our mission, goals and objectives, and join on to South Asian Alliance as a chapter.