About Raj
Raj Virk is a community leader, mental health advocate and the Founder of Breaking the Silence, a non-profit organization created in memory of his best friend, Surjan Singh Sanghera. For more than a decade, Raj has dedicated himself to bringing people together, creating conversations around mental health and helping individuals feel supported and less alone.
Through Breaking the Silence, Raj has helped grow community events, fundraising initiatives, youth programming and partnerships that have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for mental health and community causes. He is also the host of the Behind the Silence podcast, where guests share real and honest stories about adversity, mental health, family, loss, addiction and personal growth.
Professionally, Raj has spent many years in leadership within the automotive industry, where he has built and managed high-performing teams. He brings that same energy, relationship-building and passion for people into his community work.
As a father of two daughters, Raj is especially passionate about supporting youth-focused initiatives and creating opportunities for the next generation. He believes strongly that everyone has a story, that conversations can change lives and that meaningful change begins when people feel seen, heard and supported.
Raj is honoured to serve on the Edmonton Public Schools Foundation Board and looks forward to contributing his experience, energy and community connections to supporting students and families across Edmonton.
Q: What was your favourite subject in school and why?
A: My favourite subject in school was gym because I’ve always enjoyed being active, playing sports and being part of a team. It was a chance to have fun, compete and build friendships at the same time.
Q: Do you have a favourite memory from school?
A: My favourite memory from school was making the Alberta Winter Games for wrestling while I was at T.D. Baker and going on to win a silver medal. It was a really proud moment for me and something I’ll always remember!