Mayor Bonnie Crombie presented Toronto Raptors Superfan Nav Bhatia with a Key to the City on Wednesday at Mississauga City Hall.
Calling him a “true champion for diversity”, Crombie said that Bhatia has made it his mission to unite people of all ages and backgrounds through the game of basketball.
“His contributions to Paul Coffey Park’s four basketball courts, a community where he first planted roots in Canada, are making a real difference in the lives of our youth,” Crombie stated. “Nav’s journey stands as an inspiration to us all and the Key to the City symbolizes our thanks for all that he’s done and all that he continues to do.”
Bhatia who owns several car dealerships in the Greater Toronto Area, is well known for his many business as well as charitable achievements. He is a philanthropist who started his own foundation, the Nav Bhatia Superfan Foundation, to spread his love of basketball through the creation of initiatives and opportunities for youth. He also stands as a positive role model for newcomers and immigrants.
Bhatia says he is honoured to receive this prestigious recognition from “the best city, in the best country, in the world”.
“When I arrived in 1984, with very little but my hopes and dreams, Mississauga was a community where I found safety and opportunities,” the Toronto Raptors Superfan said in a news release. “Mississauga was the perfect place for me to put down roots and much of what I have today, I owe to those humble beginings. That is why I feel so strongly that it’s my responsibility to give back.”
“I am very thankful to receive this special recognition from Mayor Bonnie Crombie and the City of Mississauga – the best city, in the best country, in the world,” Bhatia added.
