Creating Spaces of Belonging: In Conversation with Khalsa Foundation UK
At AMBER, we believe in creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected — across generations, identities, and stages of life. Community isn’t just about shared culture or faith; it’s about belonging, learning together, and feeling safe to explore who you are.
Khalsa Foundation has been doing exactly that for over three decades, bringing families together in a welcoming environment rooted in Sikh values while remaining open to all — whether practising, reconnecting, or simply curious. We spoke to Bobby, trustee of the Khalsa Foundation, about the origins of Khalsa Foundation, its impact, and why accessible community spaces matter now more than ever.
Congratulations on the success of the recent Khalsa Family Retreat over the winter break. What made this camp particularly special for you?
The Khalsa Family Retreat (KFR) was fully booked within 24 hours. We advertised it in the usual way through social media, but registration opened and closed on the same day due to the overwhelming number of applications. This really shows how strong the need is for families to come together in a Sikh-related environment — to spend quality time together and connect with like-minded families.
Khalsa Foundation UK has been running since the 1990s. Can you tell us how the idea first originated and what inspired its creation?
Khalsa Foundation was established in the 1990s to create a space focused on Sikh learning and spiritual enlightenment. Those original foundations are still very much in place today. We begin and end each day with prayers, provide langar on site, host Sikh education talks led by guest speakers, and ensure outdoor activities are part of the programme to support physical wellbeing.
Today, Khalsa Foundation UK runs two flagship retreats alongside several other initiatives:
Khalsa Camp (since 1990) – aimed at ages 16+
Khalsa Family Retreat (since 2017) – for families, including grandparents
University talks
Gurdwara Sikhi camp talks
Kirtan Darbars
For readers who may not be familiar, what is the Khalsa Foundation and what are its core goals?
Khalsa Foundation has long been a beacon among Sikh institutions, providing spiritual guidance and supporting overall wellbeing. Our primary focus is organising retreats across the UK — and now internationally — to make Sikhism more accessible. Our goals are simple: to welcome all, provide guidance, share knowledge and lived experiences, and support individuals on their spiritual journey.
What is the main purpose of Khalsa Family Retreat and Khalsa Camp, and what do you hope families and individuals take away from their experience?
Khalsa Foundation is committed to creating an inclusive environment, regardless of gender, age, caste, or background. Feedback from our winter retreat showed that one of the biggest takeaways for families was seeing their children reconnect with their identity, form meaningful friendships, and continue those connections beyond the retreat.
Sangat is a core pillar of Sikhism — it refers to being in the company of those who support one another on their spiritual journey. During difficult times especially, people seek sangat, and this is something attendees experience in abundance at any Khalsa Foundation retreat.
Many people may feel unsure if they don’t actively practise Sikhism. Are Khalsa Camp and Khalsa Family Retreat open to those who are exploring, reconnecting, or simply curious?
There are many levels of practising Sikhism, and all are welcome. Even curiosity often reflects some existing connection. Our retreats are open to anyone who wants to deepen their understanding, strengthen their faith, find sangat, listen to or sing Gurbani, or engage in seva — selfless service to the community. There are many reasons to attend, and everyone is welcome.
Bringing families together is a key part of Khalsa Camp. Why is this intergenerational focus so important?
We understand that creating an environment with limited or no screen time helps improve communication within families and strengthens relationships between children, parents, and grandparents. Grandparents and parents bring a wealth of life experience, and these retreats create natural opportunities to share wisdom, stories, and values with younger generations.
How important is coming together as a community for Sikh families living in the UK today?
Coming together as a community is central to being Sikh. We support our own community and others, particularly through charitable work. Community gatherings also help protect our identity. Many Sikh families face challenges where language, history, and traditions can slowly fade. Events such as Punjabi classes, kirtan programmes, and Gurpurab celebrations help children and young people understand who they are and where they come from.
Like many minority communities, Sikhs may experience racism, misunderstanding, or isolation. A strong community provides support networks, role models, and safe spaces to discuss challenges around education, mental health, faith, and intergenerational expectations. The Sikh principle of Sarbat Da Bhala — the wellbeing of all — truly comes to life when families look after one another.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of Khalsa Foundation?
Since the conclusion of our winter retreat, it’s been full steam ahead. We’re already planning our next three retreats for 2026, and we’ve received an incredible volume of positive feedback. Many parents have reached out to ask how they can support the planning and delivery of future retreats. We’re also preparing to open registration for our summer family retreat. Onwards and upwards.