Sydney, 24 May 2025:
The World Malayalee Council (WMC) Sydney Province, a multicultural Malayalee diaspora organisation, hosted its first event of the year at the Madison Function Centre in Dural to celebrate “Everyday Heroes”—our mothers. The event was attended by nearly 200 guests, including dignitaries, community leaders, and members of the broader Indian and Australian communities.

Founded on the values of inclusiveness and cultural pride, WMC Sydney Province aims to connect the essence of Kerala and Keralam to the global Malayalee diaspora and the wider Australian multicultural community.

In his welcome address, Mr. Babu Varghese, President of WMC Sydney Province, expressed heartfelt gratitude:

“I thank everyone for supporting our first event as a newly formed committee—a tribute to all our mothers. Thank you for your support of the World Malayalee Council Sydney Province.”

Prominent attendees included:

• Hon. Julian Leeser MP, Federal Member for Berowra and Co-Chair of the Federal Parliamentary Friends of India

• Mr. Warren Kirby MP, Member for Riverstone and Co-Chair of the NSW Parliamentary Friends of India

• Mr. James Wallace MP, Member for Hornsby

• Dr. Sunil Vyas, President, United India Associations (UIA)

• Councillor Barbara Ward

• Presidents of other Malayalee associations across Sydney

Honouring Inspirational Mothers

A special highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to five inspirational mothers from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds:

• Aunty Beryl, First Nations Elder

• Sona Rawal, Entrepreneur

• Dr. Nisha Rakesh, Researcher

• Najiha Basheer, Relationship and Intimacy Coach

• Emie Roy, Speaker, Writer, and Filmmaker

Each awardee shared personal stories of their motherhood journey, their professional pursuits, and the influence of their own mothers. This segment was curated by Poornima Menon, Vice President of WMC Sydney Province.

Vision and Future Plans

Mr. Irfan Malik, Public Relations Officer and Chair of the Advisory Committee, outlined a forward-thinking plan for the organisation. The vision includes:

• Cultural and sectoral exchange programs between Kerala and Australia

• Collaborative programs with First Nations communities

• Initiatives that promote bilateral tourism and cultural immersion

• Fundraising for charitable causes

These efforts aim to reinforce WMC Sydney’s role as a “Living Bridge” between Kerala and Australia.

Entertainment & Engagement

The event featured a graceful Mohiniyattam recital by Prasida Dinesh (Mayookham Dance School), a soulful musical medley by Pawan Sajin, and energetic Bollywood performances by Abhirami Natya Shestra. Attendees enjoyed a fun-filled game of Tambola, exciting raffle draws, and a sumptuous three-course meal served by Madison Function Centre.

The afternoon concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Deepthi Raghavan, Secretary of WMC Sydney Province, who acknowledged the VIPs, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for their enthusiastic participation and support.

Upcoming Events

WMC Sydney Province is committed to organising more culturally enriching and community-focused events throughout the year, including the much-anticipated Onam Extravaganza.

Contacts:
Babu Varghese
President, World Malayalee Council Sydney Inc

Deepthi Raghavan
Secretary, World Malayalee Council Sydney Inc

Media Contact:
Irfan Malik
Public Relations Officer, WMC Sydney Province
📞 0434 606 329