Get to know Kam Sandhu
From the moment you meet Kam Sandhu, it’s clear you’re not just talking to a business advisor — you’re speaking with someone who genuinely cares. A proud dad, husband, and community advocate, Kam brings heart to everything he does. Whether chatting with a client over coffee in their Nation’s admin office or bringing his kids alongside Orange Shirt Day, Kam shows empathy, purpose, and unwavering commitment to relationships.
As Partner and Regional Indigenous Services Leader at MNP, Kam supports Nations across Vancouver Island, from Port Hardy to Victoria. His approach isn’t transactional — it’s transformational. Rooted in his own family’s immigrant story and shaped by a deep respect for culture and tradition, Kam’s work is driven by one simple belief: when you walk alongside people with care and respect, good things follow.
How does your upbringing influence your work with Indigenous communities?
I was raised in Abbotsford in a multi-generational household. My parents worked long hours, so my grandparents took care of us after school. That’s how I learned Punjabi — they didn’t speak English, so if I wanted a snack, I had to ask in our language. But it was more than that. They passed down culture and values: respect for elders, family first, and the power of storytelling.
I see this reflected in Indigenous communities, too. Respect for elders is something we both share. When I attend a meeting and an Elder speaks, I listen — just like I did at home. The emphasis on family is also deeply rooted in both cultures. Many Indigenous families live with multiple generations under one roof, and you can see the language, culture, and teachings passed down that way. That connection makes the work feel natural for me.
You’re also a dad — how does family life shape how you show up at work?
It’s everything. My wife and I have two little ones. Being a parent reminds me how important it is to build something lasting. When I bring my family with me to Orange Shirt Day or Indigenous Peoples Day events, I’m not just showing them where I work — I’m showing them why it matters. It’s about respect, learning, and being part of something bigger than yourself. We have a responsibility to give back.
My parents immigrated to Canada in the ‘80s. They worked hard, and this country gave us opportunities. But without Indigenous Peoples, there is no Canada. I want my kids to understand that. I want them to see that you can have a career where you help people build something meaningful, not just for today but for future generations.
You mentioned that accounting wasn’t always part of the plan. How did you end up here?
My dad gave me three career options: doctor, lawyer, or engineer. I chose science in university — and quickly learned it wasn’t for me. I stumbled into an accounting class (and nearly flunked it!), but a professor pulled me aside and said, “You’re good when you’re here, but the issue is you’re never here.” He gave me a second chance and helped me see that accounting isn’t just about numbers. It can be storytelling, problem-solving, or relationship building. That’s what drew me in.
You’ve built long-standing relationships with Indigenous communities. What’s the key to that?
Showing up — physically and emotionally. I don’t just send an email and hope for the best. I get on a ferry or a flight, have coffee in someone’s home, or spend time in an admin office. Recently, I flew up to northern B.C. to sit in on a Council meeting. There wasn’t a clear path forward, but by being present and listening, we found a solution together. That wouldn’t have happened on a Zoom call.
MNP is a national firm. How do you make sure clients still feel that personal, local connection?
I live in Nanaimo, and my team is based on the Island. We’re part of the community, we shop here, and our kids go to school here. And while I don’t pretend to know everything, I know who to call. MNP’s national reach means I can bring in the right people when a client needs something outside my scope, but I stay with them through the whole process. It’s never a hand-off — it’s a team effort.
For Indigenous communities who may not be familiar with MNP, what’s one thing you want them to know about you?
That I care. I care about people, about family, about building something meaningful. This work isn’t about hitting a sales target. It’s about helping communities achieve their goals — even if it’s outside my service line, even if it means finding someone else to assist. I want people to know they can call me anytime, and I’ll do everything I can to support them.
Contact us
To learn more about Kam Sandhu, Partner & Regional Leader, Indigenous Services, and how he can support your community, contact him at 250.753.8251 or [email protected].
