Inspiring stories have been motivating us all; but when a real life story of a real life hero comes to fore, we all bow our head in respect and take away some inspiring lessons from his life. In our Netherland Special Series, we bring one such story of a man who went beyond borders to make a mark and became a global leader while overcoming all odds.
Jasbir Singh from Netherland is one such man who gives a message that ‘it is never too late to start’. After a break of 18 years, he earned a dual degree of L.L.B and L.L.M in just two years.
Let’ have a glimpse into this inspirational tale of this man who despite. being born in a farmer’s family, knew no full stops and earned the credential of being the first lawyer in European nation. Meet the man who made many firsts after stepping into foreign nation: A Lawyer, Leader, and Advocate
Early Life
Born on March 4, 1953, in a small village near Kapurthala, Punjab, Jasbir Singh’s early life was shaped by the simplicity and hard work of his family’s farming background. Growing up, he witnessed the challenges of rural life, where every day was a testament to perseverance and dedication. His parents instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility and a strong work ethic—values that would guide him throughout his life.
A bright student, Jasbir completed his early education in local government schools and went on to graduate with honors from Guru Nanak University in 1972. At just 19, with a heart full of hope and determination, he set off on an uncertain journey to the Netherlands, leaving behind the only world he had known, in search of better opportunities.
The Struggles of a New Life Abroad
Moving to a foreign country with no support system and limited resources was no easy feat for a young man from a farming family. Jasbir Singh found himself starting from the very bottom. He took up jobs in the food industry, initially working in manual labor. The work was tough, and the challenges many, but he never gave up. His ability to persevere and his relentless drive helped him rise through the ranks, moving from manual labour to managerial roles. Despite the difficulties, he never stopped believing that something greater awaited him.
Deep inside, though, he knew that his journey was far from complete, he yearned to further his education and make a lasting impact. Despite the 18-year gap in formal education, in 1989, he took the bold step of enrolling in Leiden University, known for its prestigious law program.
A Record-Breaking Academic Achievement
In a remarkable display of determination, Jasbir Singh earned his L.LB and L.LM degrees in just two years (1989-1991), a feat that was unprecedented in the Netherlands. He became the first Indian lawyer in mainland Europe, setting a new record and proving that anything is possible when one is driven by passion and purpose. This academic achievement marked the beginning of his transition from a migrant worker to a legal pioneer, breaking barriers for others in the Indian community.
His success wasn’t just personal—it was a beacon of hope for countless others. It demonstrated that no matter where you come from or how long the road is, hard work and persistence can lead to incredible accomplishments.
Building a Legacy: A Lawyer, Leader, and Advocate
In 1992, Jasbir Singh founded his own law practice, Singh Law Firm (previously Roest Singh Advocates), where he became a symbol of justice and integrity. His firm became known for its commitment to excellence, and he quickly earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
But his impact didn’t stop there. As much as he excelled professionally, Jasbir also saw a greater need in the community. In 1975, he founded the Indians Welfare Association to address the challenges faced by Indian migrants in the Netherlands. He went on to establish the Foundation for Indian Diaspora in Europe (FIDE) in 2009, and served as the president of the Foundation for Critical Choices for India (FCCI), the oldest overseas Indian think tank. Through these organisations, Jasbir worked tirelessly to preserve Indian culture and address the concerns of the Indian community abroad.
A Political Trailblazer
Jasbir’s desire to create change didn’t stop at the legal and social levels. In 1978, he became an active member of a national political party in the Netherlands, aiming to shape policies that impacted the Indian community. In 1996, he made history by becoming the first Indian national to be elected to a local government body, bridging cultural divides and ensuring Indian voices were heard on a political platform.
His appointment to the Governing Council of the Overseas Indian Facilitation Centre (OIFC) in 2010 marked another milestone in his political journey. Jasbir became a global leader, addressing issues that affected not only the Indian diaspora but the relationship between India and the rest of the world.
A Passionate Cultural Ambassador
While Jasbir’s professional and political accomplishments are remarkable, he remains deeply connected to his roots. He has always been passionate about Indian culture—its literature, music, philosophy, and yoga. He believes in the power of cultural preservation, advocating for the importance of keeping Indian traditions alive, even while living abroad. His love for sports, particularly hockey and long-distance running, reflects his balanced approach to life, where physical endurance and intellectual curiosity go hand in hand.
Inspiring Future Generations
From a small village in Punjab to becoming a respected lawyer and leader in Europe, Jasbir Singh’s journey is an inspiring story of resilience, hope, and vision. His life is a reminder that no matter the circumstances of our birth, we have the power to shape our own future. His story proves that with hard work, determination, and a willingness to follow your dreams, anything is possible.
As the President of FIDE and FCCI, Singh’s tireless work has uplifted the Indian diaspora, providing opportunities and paving the way for future generations. His journey continues to inspire, showing us all that with courage and purpose, we can rise above our challenges and leave a legacy that lasts for generations.