2017–2019: Cultural Celebration and Strategic Vision

Executive Committee Group Photo
The 2017–2019 executive committee was led by returning President Mr. T. Alagarajah, who had previously served during the 2003–2005 term and returned to steer the association's next chapter. Patron Mr. T. Shanmuganathan continued in his role from the previous term, and founding President Mr. R. Balasubramaniam also joined to guide the executive committee. However, since both patrons could not actively participate due to age and health considerations, Mr. S. Erambamoorthy was appointed as an additional Patron to support committee activities. This marked the first time the association had more than one Patron. The committee included a mix of experienced and new members: Ms. K. Vijayadevy returned as Secretary, bringing her extensive institutional knowledge from her previous role as President during 2007– 2009, and Mr. V. Thasan took on the role of Treasurer in his first term as an executive officer. The 2017–2019 period was one of renewal, as the association welcomed a younger generation into leadership positions and expanded its international collaborations.
A notable strategic initiative of this term was the creation of a Life Members’ Long-Term Fund. Recognizing the importance of sustainability, President T. Alagarajah’s team collected contributions from life members (one-time membership fees and donations) and in January 2019 placed C$5,000 into a fixed deposit in Sri Lanka. This deposit, made in the National Savings Bank (NSB) in Jaffna, was intended to serve as an endowment fund, generating interest that could be used for the emergency school needs. The idea was that the principal would remain intact, growing with occasional additions, while interest earnings (and only interest) might be spent – effectively creating a perpetual fund. By starting this fund, the 2017–19 committee demonstrated foresight in planning for the association’s longevity beyond active fundraising years.
This term also marked the beginning of a vibrant new tradition: the Pongal Vizha. On January 21st, 2018, JVC OSA Canada hosted its inaugural Pongal festival event. It was designed as a cultural celebration rather than a strict fundraiser, aiming to bring families together in a festive atmosphere. The event was a resounding success, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.
Encouraged by the Pongal Vizha 2018’s success, the committee organized another Pongal Vizha event on February 19th, 2019, which was similarly well-attended, primarily serving as community outreach while essentially breaking even financially. These Pongal celebrations have since become signature events for JVC OSA Canada, effectively combining cultural festivities, alumni networking, and modest fundraising through on-site raffles.
One of the significant milestones during the 2017–2019 term was the introduction of an official logo for JVC OSA Canada. Until then, the school's logo had served as the official emblem. The idea for a unique association logo was proposed by Mr. Muralitharan Kathirgamanathan, a young, active, and dedicated member who also volunteered to design it. Mr. Kathirgamanathan presented the initial draft in April 2019, which was subsequently approved by the executive committee.
The newly established official Facebook page was first publicly utilized on December 14th, 2017, to announce the Thai Pongal Vizha event. Recognizing the importance of a strong digital presence, the 2017–2019 executive committee decided to reacquire JVC OSA Canada's official web domain (
During this term, JVC OSA Canada also placed emphasis on recognition and appreciation of individuals who contributed to the school’s success. On July 27th 2018, the association honored Mr. U. Umapathy, a past president of JVC OSA Chulipuram. He was presented with a recognition award by OSA Canada for strengthening alumni ties across continents. Similarly, on August 26th 2018, the association organized a special event to honor a retired Victoria College teacher, Mr. S. Rajendran, who was visiting Canada. Mr. Rajendran had taught many of the alumni in the 1970s and 80s; the OSA felicitated him with a plaque and a ceremony, acknowledging his decades of service. These gestures not only delighted the honorees but also reinforced the value of dedicated educators and volunteers in the Victoria College community.
2018 was an eventful year for engaging the broader community. The association partnered with an old student of Victoria College, Mr. Vijayanathan, to co-host a “Super Singer” Show in Toronto on August 5th 2018. This show, featuring performers from a popular Tamil singing competition, drew a large crowd. OSA Canada’s role was to assist in logistics and promotion; in return, a portion of the proceeds went to the association’s fund. The partnership model was beneficial – it raised the association’s profile and brought in some revenue without the need for organizing an entire event from scratch.
During the 2017 -2019 term, the association received the sad news of the passing of Mr. T. Shanmuganathan, who had served the community in many roles—including as a former teacher at Victoria College, and later as President and Patron of JVC OSA Canada. His long-standing dedication, mentorship, and quiet leadership left a meaningful and lasting impact on the association. His contributions are remembered with deep respect and sincere gratitude.
The 2017–2019 executive committee successfully balanced tradition with innovation, focusing on cultural identity, global collaboration, and financial sustainability. Their term featured meaningful events such as the annual Pongal Vizha, appreciation ceremonies, strategic partnerships, and the establishment of a long-term fund for future stability. Through their thoughtful initiatives and inclusive leadership, the committee strengthened alumni connections, celebrated the school's heritage, and positioned JVC OSA Canada securely for continued growth and impact.
