TJ Brar emigrated from Punjab, India, to the United States in 2011, settling in Lynden. “I saw both the opportunities and the challenges that immigrant and marginalized communities face,” he says. “My own experiences with adjusting to a new culture, along with hearing stories from others, pushed me toward community work.”
Over time, Brar’s volunteerism grew into what is now the Chardi Kala Project, an organization dedicated to racial equity, supporting targeted communities and upholding immigrant rights. “At the same time, I pursued a career in real estate, which connected me even more deeply with families and individuals in Whatcom County, reinforcing my commitment to serving people both professionally and through nonprofit work,” he says.
TJ Brar’s Influence and Inspiration
Brar credits his wife as a pillar of support and his children as a source of motivation. “My wife has been my biggest supporter,” he says. “She has taken on so much at home and cared for our kids so I could dedicate more time to community service. Without her sacrifices and encouragement, I wouldn’t be able to do this work at the level I do. My children also inspire me every day to keep building a better, more inclusive future for the next generation.”
His parents taught him the role service plays in society and the importance of putting achievements into perspective. “They always taught me that life isn’t just about what you accomplish, but about how you use your success to serve others,” he says. “That lesson guided me through every step, whether in real estate or nonprofit work.”
Another key influence comes from the Sikh principle of Chardi Kala. “I’m also inspired by the Sikh principle of Chardi Kala, which is about maintaining optimism and resilience even in hard times,” he says. The tenet is a constant in Brar’s life.
“It always comes back to people,” he says. “When I see a family get their first set of house keys, or when a community member tells me they feel supported and heard through the Chardi Kala Project, that’s the fuel that keeps me going. In 2024, I went through a serious illness, and I truly believe the prayers and love from the very people we’ve been able to help are what carried me through. That experience reminded me that this work is bigger than myself. It gave me a second chance, and it motivates me even more to keep serving and giving back.”
Achievements and Defining Moments for TJ Brar
In 2022, the Chardi Kala Project received the Whatcom County Peace Award, an honor that elevated the voices of the organization and the Sikh community. “In 2024, we were also recognized by our own community, which meant so much because it came from the very people we serve,” he says.
After his serious illness that same year, Brar looks back on the prayers and support he received as life-changing. “Those moments being lifted by the community and being honored by them deepened my sense of purpose and made me more determined than ever to give back,” he says. “They reminded me that this work isn’t just about recognition, it’s about responsibility and service.”
The Chardi Kala Project’s impact ranks among Brar’s proudest accomplishments. “Receiving the Whatcom County Peace Award in 2022 and being recognized by my own community in 2024 were both incredible honors,” he says. “But the real accomplishment is seeing how people feel more supported, empowered and connected because of our work.”
In real estate, Brar loves helping people find their place and sanctuary through homeownership. “Helping first-time homebuyers, especially immigrant and minority families, achieve the dream of homeownership is something that means a lot to me,” he says. “Those moments remind me that our work is about more than milestones; it’s about changing lives.”
Community Work and the Strength of Support
When Brar first came to Lynden, he experienced the struggles and obstacles immigrants face every day. Those challenges helped shape the motivation behind his community work, which continues to this day.
“I hope my work helps create a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone feels like they belong,” he says. “Through the Chardi Kala Project, I hope our work continues to break down barriers, fight for racial equity, and give people a voice who might otherwise feel unheard. At the end of the day, I hope people see that change is possible when we come together, and that even small efforts can ripple into something bigger.”
Outside of Work
Brar says people are surprised to learn he has a background in electronics and communication engineering. Before real estate, he trained as an engineer. “That technical background still shapes how I think about problem solving today,” he says. “I also have a soft spot for dad jokes; my kids roll their eyes, but I like to think they secretly enjoy them.”
At the heart of balancing his community work and career is Brar’s family. “My wife and kids keep me grounded, and spending time with them reminds me of what really matters,” he says. “I also find balance in practicing my faith, which helps me reset mentally and spiritually. When life gets hectic, simply sharing a meal with my family, playing with my kids or going for a walk together gives me the peace I need to keep moving forward.”
Brar loves to cook traditional Punjabi cuisine, a delicious way to share his culture with others. “I also enjoy exploring new places with my family, whether it’s a hike, a small town, or just discovering local food spots,” he says. “On the quieter side, I like reading and listening to music, which helps me clear my mind.”
TJ Brar’s Next 10 Years
Alongside helping families find homes in Whatcom County, Brar hopes to see continued growth in his community work. “In the next 10 years, I hope to continue growing both professionally and in my community work,” he says. “I see the Chardi Kala Project expanding its programs and partnerships to serve even more families, immigrants and marginalized communities. Professionally, I want to continue helping families achieve homeownership while mentoring the next generation of real estate professionals and community leaders.”
For Brar, the Chardi Kala principle remains central to everything he does. “Ultimately, I hope my work leaves a lasting impact, showing that it’s possible to build a successful career while also serving others,” he says.
Join Whatcom Young Professionals and the Bellingham Regional Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the 2025 Top 7 Under 40 on October 2, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Four Points by Sheraton. Cocktail attire is encouraged, and registration is required by September 26. Click here for more details and to purchase tickets.
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