About Our Community
The Geelong Tamil Sanggam Inc. is a vibrant community organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Tamil culture, language, and traditions in Geelong, Victoria.
Our purpose is to nurture a strong, inclusive Tamil community by celebrating cultural heritage and providing Tamil-language education for children and young people. We will organise festivals, workshops and community gatherings, and offer practical support to members, including new migrants, to help them settle and participate fully in Australian society.
Our Vision & Mission
Guiding our community with purpose and action
Vision
Looking Forward
To empower individuals, foster belonging, and build an inclusive and compassionate society where Tamil identity thrives with pride, purpose, and unity.
To achieve this vision, Geelong Tamil Sanggam will:
- •Organise community and cultural events that celebrate Tamil heritage
- •Promote awareness and visibility of Tamil culture within the Geelong community
- •Conduct Tamil language classes for children and young learners
- •Support new migrant families to overcome social isolation and integrate confidently
- •Assist migrants in developing and sharing skills based on their experience and expertise
- •Support Tamil youth and newly arrived students in their personal and educational growth
- •Collaborate with other Tamil associations to strengthen community ties
- •Partner with local and national groups to deliver shared initiatives and events
- •Undertake fundraising and community projects that benefit the wider society
Mission
Taking Action
To celebrate and preserve Tamil heritage, strengthen community connections, and empower individuals through cultural engagement, education, and collaborative partnerships that enrich lives across Geelong.
Celebrate & Preserve Heritage
Organize cultural events, festivals, and language programs that keep Tamil traditions alive and promote awareness within the wider Geelong community.
Strengthen Community Connections
Support new migrants, youth, and families through inclusive programs that foster belonging, reduce isolation, and build lasting relationships.
Empower Through Partnerships
Collaborate with Tamil associations and local organizations to deliver shared initiatives, develop skills, and undertake projects that benefit society.
Our History
Founded in 2025, the Geelong Tamil Sanggam Inc. began as a small group of Tamil families who wanted to maintain their cultural connections while living in Australia. What started as informal gatherings has grown into a thriving community organization.
Today, we serve over 200 families across Geelong and surrounding areas, offering regular programs, cultural events, and educational opportunities for all ages.
Our Values
Rooted in Aram (Virtue)
Upholding integrity, compassion, and fairness in all actions
Enriched by Porul (Prosperity)
Striving for holistic growth — cultural, intellectual, and social
United in Inbam (Celebration)
Embracing unity, joy, and togetherness in every endeavour
Our Leadership Team
2026–2027Bryan Cruz
President
Leading our community with extensive experience in Tamil cultural organizations.
Vidya Srinivasan
Vice-President
Supporting the community and helping guide our cultural programs and initiatives.
Palanisamy Thanjagoundan
Secretary
Passionate about Tamil language education and youth programs.
Sathyadevi Selvaraj
Treasurer
Ensuring financial stability and transparency in all our programs.
Executive Committee Members
Guided by volunteers who dedicate their time and care to keeping the Sanggam thriving.
Bawani Sata Rau
Glynis Cruz
Geethanjali Sadasivam
Vinith Solaiappan
Balaji Mahalingam
Balasubramani Sellamuthu
Venkatasalam
Edwina Samidoss
Previous Committees
Office bearers and executive members from earlier terms.
Office Bearers
- Vidya SrinivasanPresident
- Bryan CruzVice-President
- Palanisamy ThanjagoundanSecretary
- Vijay RajuTreasurer
- Geethanjali SadasivamIT Officer
Executive Committee Members
- Bawani Sata Rau
- Geetha Mayavel
- Glynis Andrea Cruz
- Vinith Solaiappan
- Edwina Samidoss
- Thoorigai Murugan
- Aswathaa Sridhar
Join Our Community
Whether you're a long-time Tamil resident or new to Geelong, we welcome you to be part of our growing community. Together, we can preserve our heritage and build lasting friendships.
