AUS Tamil TV Community Awards 2023 Award Winner

This year, we take immense pride in presenting the prestigious “Lifetime Achievement Award” to the illustrious Mr. Murugesu Paramanathan, a true luminary in our community.

Mr. Paramanathan’s remarkable journey spans over 25 years of unwavering dedication and active engagement in community initiatives across Victoria. As the principal of the Victorian Tamil Association Tamil School since 2022, he has been instrumental in shaping the educational landscape and nurturing the Tamil language’s growth within Victoria.

Furthermore, his role as a founding member of the Tamil Community Centre in Dandenong, Victoria, is a testament to his profound commitment to creating spaces that foster community spirit and cultural vibrancy.

Mr. Paramanathan’s lifetime achievements and outstanding contributions have significantly enriched our community, and we are honoured to celebrate his remarkable journey with this award.

Mujibur Shah Rahman, an eminent figure within Melbourne’s Tamil community, receives the prestigious AUS Tamil TV’s Tamil Icon of the Year Award.

Mujib Rahman stands as a true pride of the linguistic Tamil community in Melbourne. His passion for Tamil, its intricate culture, and rich traditions is nothing short of inspiring. He has become an influential figure as a guest speaker, captivating audiences with his deep knowledge and profound insights into the beauty of the Tamil language.

Mujib’s impact reaches beyond Melbourne. He actively participates in online platforms dedicated to Tamil culture, history, and contemporary topics, fostering stimulating conversations among Tamilians. His profound devotion to Kamba Ramayanam, a cornerstone of Tamil literature, and his unyielding commitment to Tamil culture and heritage have made him an influential personality.

Mujibur Shah Rahman is undoubtedly deserving of the Tamil Icon of the Year Award. His enthusiasm, knowledge, and dedication have elevated the appreciation of cultural heritage and opened doors for future linguists to shine. His influence is immeasurable, leaving an enduring mark on our community.

Sountharam Chidambaram, a committed volunteer since 2008, champions empowerment and justice across diverse communities. She serves in various roles, including treasurer at Oakgrove Community Centre, President of the Women Interfaith Network, and Treasurer at the Centre of Melbourne Multifaith. Her efforts include managing events like International Peace Day and International Women’s Day. Sountharam is instrumental in promoting Tamil ancient arts, particularly the Parai, in Victoria. She spreads awareness by engaging with Tamil youth, teaching the language, and creating theatrical performances. Her contributions extend to her work as a Vannisai FM radio broadcaster, offering her program “Aachi Kekalam Vanga.” Recognized for her dedication, she has received commendable awards, including the UN Peace Day Award and the “You Can” Award. Sountharam’s influence is felt globally, having impacted individuals from various regions, and she continues to inspire positive change and empowerment.

பிரின்ஸ் கென்னட் ஒரு பன்முகத் திறன் கொண்ட தமிழ் செயற்பாட்டாளர். இவர் ஒரு தமிழ் ஆர்வலர், தமிழ் சமூக அமைப்புகளின் நிறுவனர், எழுத்தாளர், உளவியல் ஆலோசகர், ஆண்கள் மனநல மேம்பாட்டு சிறப்பு உளவியலாளர், கல்வியாளர் மற்றும் Redefine Counselling மையத்தின் இயக்குநர். விக்டோரியாவின் தமிழ் கூட்டமைப்பின் தற்போதைய தலைவராகவும் உள்ளார். சர்வதேச கார் தயாரிப்பு நிறுவனங்களில் இயந்திரவியல் பொறியாளராக பணியாற்றிய இவர் உளவியல் துறையில் கால் பதித்தார். பிரின்ஸ் அவர்களின் தமிழ் மொழி பற்றும், தமிழ் சமூகத்தின் மீதான ஈடுபாடும் நாம் அறிந்ததே. இவர் ஆஸ்திரேலியா தமிழர்கள், தமிழ்ப் பள்ளிகள், விக்டோரியா தமிழ் கூட்டமைப்பு போன்ற அமைப்புகளை நிறுவினார். பிரின்ஸ் தமிழ் கல்வியை ஊக்குவித்தும், கலாச்சார பாதுகாப்பில் ஈடுபட்டும், பல்வேறு வழிகளில் தமிழ்நாட்டு மக்களுக்கு உதவி வருகிறார். 2015 ஆம் ஆண்டு முதல் தமிழ் நாட்டில் தொடர்ந்து கால்வாய்களை சீரமைத்து விவசாய உள்கட்டமைப்பு மேம்பாட்டில் தீவிரமாக ஈடுபட்டு வருகிறார், தமிழகத்தில் உள்ள வசதியற்ற மாணவர்களுக்கான கல்விக் கட்டணத்தை அவர் நிறுவிய அமைப்பு வழங்கி வருகிறது. தமிழ்நாட்டில் பேரிடர்கள் நடக்கும் பொழுதெல்லாம் தவறாமல் நிவாரண பணிகளை மேற்கொள்பவர். மெல்போர்னில் ஜல்லிக்கட்டு, காவிரி, ஸ்டெர்லைட் உள்ளிட்ட போராட்டங்களை முன்னெடுத்து நடத்தியவர். அவுஸ்திரேலியாவில் உள்ள இலங்கை அகதிகளுக்கு பிரின்ஸ் இலவச மனநல அமர்வுகள் மூலம் உதவுகிறார். குறிப்பிடத்தக்க வகையில், அவர் இலவச ஆண்களின் சக ஆதரவு குழுக்களை உருவாக்கி, உதவிகளை வழங்குகிறார். இவர் தமிழாக்கம் செய்த ‘மதுவைக் கட்டுப்படுத்த எளிய வழி’ என்கிற புத்தகம் உலகெங்கும் வாழும் தமிழிழர்களுக்கு உதவி வருகிறது.

This year’s “People’s Choice Award for Community Support” rightfully belongs to Mrs. Telgavati Subramanyam born to  hard-working parents, Mr. Subramanyam and Mrs. Saraswathi.

An extraordinary individual who has made a profound impact on the lives of many. Born to hard-working parents in Tamil Nadu, Telgavati’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. At just 16, she achieved a remarkable feat by winning the Gold Medal for Junior National Athletics Championship in Discus-Throw, setting a National record. Telgavati’s excellence wasn’t limited to sports; she also topped her MBA class academically.

In 2014, Telgavati embarked on her career as a trainer. Since then, she has dedicated herself to assisting over 1,000+ students from various migrant communities in obtaining their Australian qualifications, securing jobs, and achieving financial independence. Telgavati’s remarkable contributions to the migrant community have a lasting impact, making her the deserving recipient of the People’s Choice Award. Her exceptional work and dedication have earned her the highest number of public nominations from people who have directly benefited from her efforts. Telgavati Subramanyam embodies the spirit of community support.

Dr Satha K Sathananthan is the President of Victorian Tamil Association (VTA) since May
2021. VTA has been honoured with the esteemed award for “Outstanding Contribution to
VIC Community”. Since its establishment in 1978, the organization, guided by various
visionary leaders, has consistently advocated for initiatives that transcend cultural
boundaries and address pressing community concerns. Victorian Tamil Association has
demonstrated unwavering commitment to community enrichment through a diverse
range of programs. These include nine community language schools spread across
Victoria, as well as cultural and artistic activities, and language and music competitions
designed for children and youth. VTA has played a crucial role in supporting communities
during emergencies, including the challenging period of the COVID lockdown, and has
actively assisted Tamil refugee students in pursuing higher education. A recent milestone
for the organization is the establishment of the Cultural and Community Centre in the
multicultural town of Dandenong.

Meet Mrs Anudeepa Kadiresan from DravidianArt, the recipient of the “Voluntary Contribution for Multicultural Society” award. Her passion for art led her to showcase the rich traditions of southern India, specialising in sculpture sketching and traditional Tanjore artworks. With 19 years in Melbourne, she’s exhibited in various galleries.

In 2022, Anudeepa and her husband launched Artwellbeing.org, offering free monthly art classes to the community. Anudeepa’s social commitment is remarkable. She empowers the elderly (60+) and children (under 15) through art. Recognizing post-Covid impacts on the elderly, she created “artwellbeing” workshops, fostering social connections and enhancing mental health. These workshops are designed with vibrant colors and geometric patterns, making them beneficial for those impacted by Alzheimer’s or Dementia. Anudeepa Kadiresan, a beacon of hope and connection, exemplifies the power of art in building vibrant, interconnected communities.

This year, the “Humanitarian Overseas Service Award” is a well-deserved recognition for Mr. Thev Theivendran –  Engineers Charity Fund. This organisation has been a driving force behind numerous humanitarian projects with the primary goal of enhancing the lives of Tamils residing in the northern and eastern regions of Sri Lanka.

The Engineers Charity Fund has consistently carried out international activities to achieve this mission, including:  University Scholarship Schemes – Supporting 70 students across various universities, Child Sponsorships –  Providing valuable assistance to over 80 children, ensuring they have the means to access quality education and empowering women-headed Families. The organisation has worked diligently to help these families establish income-generating opportunities, thereby improving their overall living standards. Mr. Thev Theivendran’s unwavering commitment to these initiatives is indeed commendable and deserving of this esteemed award.

We are honoured to present the ‘Women Empowerment Award’ to the remarkable Ms. Uma Krithika Muralidharan.  Her tireless dedication to unite communities and uplifting women is nothing short of inspiring.

Via her organisation “KRITHA” she consistently runs sessions on a weekly basis like yoga, meditation, dancing , walking , hiking clubs, self awareness session , cybersecurity session , indoor games activities , supporting small businesses, organising camping,  technology sessions etc for the last 7 to 8 years.

Her contributions as a volunteer are indeed exceptional. She tirelessly works day in and day out to help women connect, socialise, and prioritise their physical and mental well-being. She has been awarded by Kingston council for being nominated for “humanitarian women of the year 2023”.

Her profound dedication to the empowerment of women and her outstanding achievements make her a deserving recipient of the ‘Women Empowerment Award.’ Krithika’s impact on her community and beyond is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and compassion.

Ms. Mehananthie Sivarasa has been an indispensable part of the Victoria Tamil Senior Citizens Benevolent Society since its 2014 inception. Her commitment to the well-being of seniors stems from a belief in cherishing their wisdom. Organising monthly meetings at Glen Waverly Community Centre, she facilitates yoga, Tamil drama, speeches, and entertainment, fostering mental health among the elderly. Mehananthie collaborates with Brahma Kumaris, the Happiness Mission, and local teachers to provide spiritual speeches, meditation, and music and dance performances to bridge the generational gap. During the pandemic, she established virtual sessions and informative talks to combat social isolation. Her role as Treasurer in the Casey Multifaith Network and as the Radio Producer at “Tamizharuvi Vanoli” SER demonstrates her commitment to peace, harmony, and cultural understanding. Her contributions to various community services projects accentuate her dedication to multiculturalism in Victoria.

This year, the prestigious “Community Service and Support Award” is rightfully bestowed upon Mr. Kannan Subramanian, an exceptional leader and activist whose tireless dedication to community causes has left an indelible mark.

For over a decade, Mr. Subramanian has served as the dedicated coordinator of the Tamil Language School in Melbourne’s West. His leadership has been pivotal in not only establishing this institution but also in nurturing its growth within this burgeoning region of Victoria. Furthermore, his active involvement in the Tamil community radio, Vaanisai Wyn FM 88.9, has been instrumental in connecting and serving the community through the airwaves.

As a founder member of the Victorian Tamil Cultural Centre (VTCC), his unwavering dedication and passion to enrich our culture is certainly remarkable.  Moreover, his enthusiasm to revel the rich tapestry of Tamil culture has led him to play an integral role in organising the annual Pongal festival held in Melbourne’s West, in which he embodies a heartfelt mission to foster unity and preserve cultural heritage. His multifaceted contributions make him a true pillar of support for the community, making him the fitting recipient of this esteemed award.

AUS Tamil TV is proud to present the “Community Service and Support – Elder Empowerment Excellence Award” to the exceptional duo, Mr. Siva Sinnathamby and Mr. Navaratnam Vaithilingam.

Mr. Siva Sinnathamby and Mr. Navaratnam Vaithilingam have been jointly recognized for their remarkable contributions in founding and nurturing the Casey Tamil Mandram Senior Citizens Wing. Their tireless efforts have transformed this initiative into a thriving and indispensable platform for Tamil senior citizens residing in the South Eastern and Southern suburbs of Victoria.

The Casey Tamil Mandram Senior Citizens Wing, under their dedicated leadership, has united isolated seniors and provided them with a vibrant space to form new friendships, share quality time through engaging monthly gatherings, partake in exciting excursions, and participate in various activities. It has not only enriched the lives of these esteemed seniors but also emerged as a vital resource hub for their daily needs, ensuring that their well-being is well taken care of.

Additionally, this initiative encourages senior citizens to pursue their interests and talents, thereby fostering stronger connections within the community and bridging the generational gap. Their contributions have a profound impact on both the senior citizens they serve and the younger generations inspired by their dedication.

We are thrilled to honor Mr. Siva Sinnathamby and Mr. Navaratnam Vaithilingam with this award, celebrating their unwavering commitment to the betterment of our community.

Murthy Muthuswamy, Founder and CEO of InSimplify, has redefined the Australian home-building industry with his cloud-based software system. Hailing from a hardworking agricultural family in a small village near Hiriyur, Murthy’s journey is a testament to his determination.

Inspired by his family’s experiences in the construction sector while building their home in Tarneit, he conceptualized InSimplify. What began as a simple one-page application for quotes rapidly gained traction.

Today, InSimplify is recognized for its innovative solutions, trusted by over 100 home-building companies across Australia. Beyond business success, InSimplify is actively involved in supporting local sports through sponsorships with the Westgate Cricket Club. They also facilitate donations to Aifi (Australian India Foundation Inc), contributing to the well-being of communities in both Australia and remote parts of India.

K.M. Ramalingam, the Managing Director of Sri Murugan Trading, has led the establishment since 2004. This venture has grown into a pioneering convenience and departmental store across 5 countries, specialising in providing essential Indian products. Recognized as the LARGEST INDIAN CHAIN RETAIL in SINGAPORE, Sri Murugan Stores operates through multiple direct outlets. Beyond its retail success, Sri Murugan Trading has been an active supporter of the Tamil community in Melbourne. Offering a one-stop shop catering to diverse home essentials, the enterprise under Ramalingam’s leadership has become a cornerstone for day-to-day necessities in the Indian community.

Tamilar Inc. shines as the “Arts & Cultural Development Award” recipient at this year’s AUS Tamil TV Awards. Their unwavering dedication to Tamil language, tradition, and culture preservation is commendable. Since 2011, Tamilar Inc. has been instrumental in passing on the Tamil language to the next generation of Australian Tamils. Beginning with 11 children, they now educate 275 kids across 13 classes in locations like Point Cook, Truganina, Caroline Springs, Lalor, Melton, and Craigieburn.

Beyond language, Tamilar Inc. fosters cultural traditions, celebrating Pongal, Chithirai Thiruvizha (Tamil New Year), and Manavar Kalai Vizha (end-of-year celebrations). They’ve also launched “Urchaga Paravaigal” for senior citizens, facilitating community connections.

Additionally, Tamilar Inc. actively supports women affected by domestic violence, offering aid, legal support, and shelter while maintaining strict confidentiality. Their comprehensive contributions make them deserving of the “Arts & Cultural Development Award.

ஜேகே எனும் ஜெயக்குமரன் சந்திரசேகரம், ஈழத்தைப் பிறப்பிடமாகக் கொண்டவர். தற்பொழுது புலம்பெயர்ந்து அவுஸ்ரேலியா, மெல்பேர்னில் வசிக்கின்றார். இவர் படலை என்கின்ற தனிநபர்  இணையத்தளத்தில் கடந்த பத்தாண்டுகளுக்கு மேலாகத் தொடர்ச்சியாக நாவல், சிறுகதை, பத்தி என எழுதி வருகிறார்.

ஜேகேயின் ஈழப் போர்ச் சூழலின் வாழ்வு அனுபவத்தை பால்யத்தின் பார்வைக்கூடாக எழுதிய என் கொல்லைப்புறத்துக் காதலிகள் என்ற தொகுப்பும் அரசியல் விஞ்ஞானப் புனைவான கந்தசாமியும் கலக்சியும் என்ற நாவலும் போரும் புலம்பெயர்வும் அரித்து நிற்கும் மாந்தரின் வாழ்வுகளைப் பேசும் ‘சமாதானத்தின் கதை’ என்ற சிறுகதைத் தொகுப்பும் வாசகர்களிடையே வரவேற்பைப் பெற்றவை. சங்க இலக்கிய வாழ்வியலை மையமாக வைத்து எழுதப்பட்ட மாயப்புனைவான ‘வெள்ளி’ எனப்படும் இவருடைய புதிய நாவல் தற்சமயம் அச்சில் உள்ளது. ஜேகே வாசிப்பிலும் எழுத்திலும் தன்னைத் தொடர்ச்சியாக ஆரவத்துடன் ஈடுபடுத்தி வருபவர்.

யாழ்ப்பாணத்தில் பிறந்து வேலுப்பிள்ளை முத்துப்பிள்ளையின் மகளான இவர் அமரர் அம்பலவாணபிள்ளையின் மனைவியும் ஆவர் . இலங்கையில் ஆசிரியராக பணியைத் தொடங்கிய இவர் பலபாடங்களை கற்பித்ததோடு , கலை நிகழ்ச்சி மற்றும் விளையாட்டுப்போட்டிகளுக்கு மாணவர்களை தயார் செய்தார் . நடனப்பாடல்கள், வில்லுப்பாட்டு, வாழ்த்துப்பா, பிரிவுபசாரப்பா, கல்வெட்டுகள் போன்றவற்றையும் எழுதினார் . ஆஸ்திரேலியாவிற்கு புலம் பெயர்ந்த இவர் மேல்பேர்ண் மணி என்னும் புனைபெயரில் பல நூல்களை வெளியிட்டுள்ளார் . ஈழத்தில் நூல் உருவாக்க முடியாத குறையை இங்கு நிறைவேற்றி வருகின்றார் . கலியுகத்தின் சில பக்கங்கள், மணியாரம், கவிதைப்பூங்கா, பாசத்தின் வலிமை, அம்மாச்சி குறுநாவல் என்னும் ஐந்து நூல்களை வெளியிட்டுள்ளார் . தற்போது தமிழன் வேட்கை, சந்தக்கவி, சுடர், சிறுவர் கதம்பம், கீர்த்தனை மாலை என்னும் ஐந்து சிறு நூல்களை வெளியிடுகிறார் இவர் தன்னை எழுத்துலகில் அர்பணித்துள்ளது பாராட்டத்தக்கது.

AUS Tamil TV proudly presents the ‘Social Influencer Award’ to Karthik Thanigaimani. Karthik migrated to Australia 15 years ago, where he has made a significant impact as an IT Architect. He passionately dedicates his time to volunteering, serving as a firefighter with the Country Fire Authority, and actively participating in local organizations such as the Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA). Karthik is a key member of the Honorary Justice Services Support Victoria, where he serves as a Justice of the Peace (JP), offering invaluable JP services from Point Cook and Werribee Police Station. Furthermore, he uses his presence on social media to raise awareness and make a positive impact on various community initiatives. His selfless commitment to serving the community has made him a well-deserved recipient of the ‘Social Influencer Award.

Meet Mrs. Sri Samy, the recipient of the “Refugee & Migration Support” award. Sri Samy, often called the “angel of Friends of Refugees,” has been tirelessly working to support refugees and people seeking asylum. Her efforts were recognized with the “Community Group of the Year 2023” award from the City of Greater Dandenong. Friends of Refugees is a volunteer-led grassroots community organisation which advocates and takes action to support refugees and vulnerable new arrivals in Melbourne.

Sri Samy’s journey began in 2012 when she witnessed people seeking asylum living in dire conditions, including pregnant women and families with children sleeping on bare floors due to them having no work rights or support to live a dignified life in Australia. She founded Friends of Refugees and currently serves as its CEO. Sri is an Architect and a Mediation and Dispute Resolution Practitioner who dedicates most of her time to volunteer work. Find attached our Social Impact as of June 30, 2022.