SAMPAN event returns to support South Asian representation in the mortgage industry

The South Asian Mortgage Professionals & Allies Network (SAMPAN) has announced its second event, which will take place at Paragon’s Solihull office on 7^th May. The event aims to help improve South Asian representation within the mortgage sector and support those already building their careers in the industry.

The group was founded by Gurpreet Chahal, regional sales manager at Accord Mortgages, Paul Purewal of Dudley Building Society, and Dina Bhudia of P2M Group.

Following its first event in London last October, SAMPAN has chosen to bring its next gathering to the Midlands to make it easier for professionals from across the UK to attend and take part.

The organisation said the Birmingham area was selected in recognition of its long-standing South Asian roots. It added that the Midlands is home to one of the UK’s most established South Asian communities, with a growing impact on business, culture and wider society.

SAMPAN also said holding the event in the region is both meaningful and practical, as it allows the group to engage with professionals closer to home while also recognising the communities the sector supports.

The event will run from 5:30pm until 8pm and will include sessions on personal development and bringing new South Asian talent into the industry, as well as a panel session centred on hearing stories from South Asian colleagues. It will also include welcome refreshments, a keynote speaker, and dedicated time for networking.

SAMPAN was created to improve visibility and increase the presence of diverse role models in the industry, which it believes is vital in encouraging the next generation and showing the mortgage sector as a strong career option.

It also believes the industry has an important part to play in helping South Asian customers onto the property ladder, supported by professionals who reflect the community, understand its needs and have strong relationships within it.

The event is open to mortgage and property professionals who support SAMPAN’s aims and want to build a better understanding of underrepresented groups.

Those attending will have the chance to make new connections, talk through shared issues and help drive positive change across the sector.

Gurpreet Chahal, regional sales manager at Accord Mortgages, said: "As someone who has worked in the mortgage intermediary sector for many years, I know how powerful it is to feel supported and represented.

"SAMPAN was born from personal experience and a genuine desire to help others feel they belong in this industry. This event is about bringing people together, sharing stories, and reminding each other that we all have a role to play in building a profession that reflects the communities we serve. 

"If we want the mortgage industry to thrive, we need people from all backgrounds to see it as a place where they can succeed. Events like this help us move the conversation forward and take real, meaningful steps towards a more inclusive future."

To register to attend, visit: https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1ft6S3dc0QJSD6v9saiojaw2kf6j