2011–2015: Reconstruction and Major Projects
In 2011, a new executive committee took office, leading JVC OSA Canada through a four-year term of ambitious reconstruction and major development projects. Mr. V. Balachandran returned as President (having previously served in 2002–03), bringing continuity and visionary leadership. This term also saw a change in the Patron: Mr. T. Shanmuganathan (immediate past president) was appointed Patron, succeeding Mr. K. Sivasubramaniam during 2011–2015. The executive team comprised Mr. S. Jeyakanthan as Secretary and Mr. M. Sudharshan continuing as Treasurer. Under President Balachandran’s guidance, this committee capitalized on the stable period to realize long-held dreams: a modern sports ground and robust academic support systems.
In November 2011, the committee addressed the school’s pressing need for improved administrative capabilities by allocating funds for a new photocopier. Costing approximately C$885 (equivalent to Rs 100,000), this vital addition streamlined day-to-day operations and boosted overall efficiency in the school office.
In April 2012, JVC OSA Canada teamed up with the Maple Lions Club at a local festival and ran a food booth, contributing proceeds to charity (around C$600). Such collaborations increased the association’s visibility in the wider community.
In September 2012, the association held an “Explore Muskoka” fall cruise, which yielded a net income of C$1,700.
This term was also rich in cultural collaboration. In July 2013, JVC OSA Canada partnered with the Australian OSA to host “Kalai Malaipozhuthu 2013,” a joint cultural program. This event, held in Sri Katpagavinayagar Temple hall, Brampton as an evening of music and dance, not only celebrated the shared heritage of Victoria College alumni worldwide but also raised C$3,226. During this event, OSA Canada honored Mr. Elankumaran, the President of JVC OSA Australia, highlighting the camaraderie between the branches. These gestures reinforced a global Victoria College alumni network bound by mutual respect and cooperation.
The headline achievement of the committee was the execution of the Playground Development Project to its full extent. Having acquired land for the expanded playground in earlier years, the association now moved to develop that land into a functional sports field. In April 2013, JVC OSA Canada sent a major installment of funds for land development and a 400-meter track expansion, amounting to Rs 2,000,000 (approximately C$16,000). This investment enabled the clearing, leveling, and preparation of the ground to accommodate a standard 400m athletics track and additional play space. By partnering with the local school authorities and Old Students’ Association in Chulipuram, the Canadian OSA ensured the work was carried out to specification. During this period, OSA Canada Advisor Mrs. K. Vijayadevi and Secretary Mr. S. Jeyakanthan visited the school for the land purchase event.
February 2014 saw the joyous Opening Ceremony of the new Ground, an event proudly sponsored by OSA Canada. The association covered the event expenses (about C$885, or Rs 100,000). As part of the event, Mr. and Mrs. Yogalingam Maharani represented the OSA Canada as the chief guests, an honor warmly received by the school’s administration. At this ceremony, the contributions of JVC OSA Canada over two decades were lauded. This moment was a pinnacle in the history of JVC OSA Canada: a tangible, physical legacy for current and future students – a sprawling sports ground – built with diaspora generosity and love.
In April 2014, riding on the success of previous cultural events, the association organized a second Rajesh Vaidhya Veena concert. This event was another triumph, raising C$6,500 for the association’s coffers. These funds were crucial for replenishing the treasury after the massive outlays for the playground project.
By 2015, the achievements of this executive committee were truly remarkable. Major construction projects like the playground were completed, educational programs like scholarships and prize funds were strengthened, and the alumni community was more connected than ever. President V. Balachandran’s leadership in this term left an indelible mark: he expertly balanced large-scale projects with grassroots support initiatives. As the 2011– 2015 committee handed over the reins, JVC OSA Canada had entered its third decade in a position of strength and pride, with a proven record of turning ambitious plans into reality.
