First AGM of VTHCO:A Milestone Event for the Tamil Community

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 On Sunday, October 1, 2023, the Vaughan Tamils’ Heritage and Cultural Organization (VTHCO) held its first Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Vellore Village Community Center. The event, which ran from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, marked a significant milestone in the history of our community, bringing together over 100 Tamil families to celebrate our heritage and discuss the future of our organization.

The AGM began with the official appointment of the VTHCO Interim Committee members as the new Executive Committee, alongside the addition of two new executive members. The executive members for the year are:

• President:  Anpalagan (Kannan) Kumarasamy
• Vice President: Jeyakumar (Jey) Arumugam
• Secretary: Suganja Ramesh Sinnathsamby
• Assistant Secretary: Kamalaranjini (Kama) Mylvaganam
• Treasurer: Naguleswaran Elayathamby
• Assistant Treasurer: Nithya Suthes
• EC Member: Jayatheeba Thanabalasingam
• EC Member (Internal Auditor): Thevarani Vethanayagam
• EC Member: Balakrishnan Thiyagarajah
• EC Member: Vithiananthy Karunaharan
• EC Member: Skantharajah Singarajah
• Founder Member: Jebaranjan (Jeban) Nadarajah
• Founder Member: Suthaparan Thambiah

The meeting followed a well-structured agenda, starting with the registration of participants and the singing of the Canadian National Anthem and the Tamil Thai Vazhthu. A minute of silence was observed in honor of members who have passed away and contributed to Tamil heritage and culture.

1. Welcome Speech: The Founder Member and Interim President, Jebaranjan Nadarajah, delivered an inspiring welcome speech, setting the tone for the meeting.
2. Introduction of Executive Committee: Each executive member introduced themselves      and shared their vision for VTHCO.
3. Election of New Board of Directors: The process for nominating and electing new      board members was outlined and conducted.
4. Discussion on the Proposed Constitution: Members discussed and voted on the new      constitution and any proposed amendments.
5. Other Business: Various topics were addressed, including the nomination process for new officers, membership registration, and future events.

In addition to the formal agenda, the AGM featured several special activities:

• Lighting of the Kuthtuvilakku: A traditional ceremony that brought a sense of      cultural pride to the event.
• Land Acknowledgment and Anthem: Led by Suganja Sinnathsamby, this segment      honored the land and highlighted our respect for Canadian traditions.
• Introduction of General Members: An opportunity for all attendees to introduce      themselves and share their thoughts.
• Souvenir Distribution: A memorable gift was provided to all families, commemorating the event. 

The AGM concluded with a vote of thanks and a time for members to mingle and get to know each other better. The event not only solidified the foundation of VTHCO but also set the stage for future initiatives, including Tamil Heritage Month celebrations, a summer event, a winter feast, and programs for seniors.

We are excited about the journey ahead and invite all Tamil families in Vaughan to join us in preserving and promoting our rich cultural heritage. For more information and to stay updated on our activities, visit VTHCO's Website.