Week 40 – Sarbat Through My Lens: Photography and Connection
Catch-up entry for 2026-10-21; written in October 2026. Reflections may refer to earlier experiences.
On October 16–17, Seattle hosted the Sarbat AI & Impact Conference. I took part as a photographer, and one of the most meaningful parts of the experience was getting to communicate with and connect with Sikh Kaurs and other interesting people.
A Camera and a Conversation
Photography gave me a way to contribute to the event. Looking back, I value the connections alongside the photographs. Being there gave me an opportunity to meet people and be part of a gathering that brought different interests into the same space.
Sarbat brought together Sikh technologists, entrepreneurs, social activists, and students around questions about AI and its impact. My role was photography, and my personal takeaway centers on the people I got to connect with.
Seeing Possibilities
Connecting with Sikh Kaurs felt especially meaningful to me. As I think about my own future, I value opportunities to meet people in my community whose interests and experiences are different from mine.
The conference also gives me something to bring back to this journal: I want my interest in dentistry to stay open to wider conversations about technology, community, and service.
What I Am Taking Forward
My summer shadowing and my experience at Sarbat belong to different settings, but both are part of exploring where I can contribute. I can keep learning science while developing other skills, including photography and communication.
I am grateful I had a way to participate in Sarbat and connect with people while doing it.