Profile

The mission of the SLCAM

* Provides a focal point for the community of Canadians and residents in Montreal with origins in Sri Lanka
* Provides a place for those who come to Montreal to meet people
* Expose our cultural heritage to Canadians with non-Sri Lankan origins
* Provide a forum to our young members to socialize with each other, develop their organizational and leadership skills, as well as express themselves artistically and in other forms

In April of 1988, the Sri Lanka-Canada Association of Montreal was formed and registered (Registration Number: 1144158095) within the Province of Québec as a non-profit cultural orginazation. SLCAM is administered by an Executive Committee duly elected by the membership once a year, usually in November of the preceding year. The membership also selects a Board of Directors in order to assist the Executive Committee in the same year.

Before the present Association, the Burgher community in Montreal had the "Lotus Club". That probably was the very first formal Association in Canada formed by people with origins in Sri Lanka. The Lotus Club was defunct when the present Association took wings.

Message From The President

Minesh Perera, President

Dear Friends,
Firstly, on behalf of the entire committee here at the SLCAM, I would like to wish each and every one of you a New Year filled with great health, wealth and prosperity. I pray that 2008 brings forth a united motherland that’s showered with peace and well-being for all. I strongly believe that this peace will stem from open-minded associations such as the SLCAM – where we have the ability to look beyond race, ethnicity, language, religion etc. and appreciate our differences as we set the mould for future generations. This is one of the main reasons I accepted this position at the SLCAM, my aim is to foster the rich Sri Lankan culture within the community and promote “one people, one country” while sharing our traditions, culture and country with Canadians and various other communities here in Montreal.

The torch of the SLCAM was sparked by its founders almost two decades ago, a torch that has been brightly shining ever since. Over the past few years, I was able to learn many facets of the association while I was a part of a great committee under great leadership. This year, I am honoured to accept the position as President of the SLCAM as it embarks upon its 20th anniversary. More importantly, I am privileged to lead a committee that shares my same passion, desire and dedication to work towards a successful future – a future geared by a team that I am confident will help generate a brighter torch than ever before!

As last year came to a successful end, the new 2008 committee was anxious to get the ball rolling early this year. Our major objectives this year will be to facilitate communication within members of the association, non-members and new comers alike. As a response we will invest money and time to further develop our website (with frequent updates), launch a new interactive forum and streamline member communications. Furthermore, we aim to increase membership as we promote the SLCAM to Canadian, South Asian and Native communities in 2008. We will also reach out to other Canadian based Sri-Lankan associations that share similar ideologies as the SLCAM and work towards common goals and interests. Lastly, in addition to our more traditional calendar of events, we plan on implementing more frequent “get-togethers”, outings and an overall involvement within the community.
In closing, I thank you all for your support and participation over the years. Your commitment and involvement in the association has been the driving force behind its success. I look forward to this role and ask you for your continued support, let’s work together to maximize this great association’s potential.

Best wishes for a wonderful year!
Minesh Perera
President
SLCAM