Under the powerful theme “Thank You, Canada – A Step Forward for International Justice for Sri Lanka’s Genocide Against Tamils & Recognition of Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day,” the evening expressed profound gratitude to Canada while reaffirming the community’s dedication to accountability, remembrance, and dignity.
Networking commenced at 3:30 PM in the vibrant OTA Entrepreneur Network area, featuring Tamil heritage displays, community partner booths, and sponsor exhibits, all set to the soulful sounds of traditional Thavil and Nadaswaram.
The formal program opened at 5:25 PM with a moving performance of the Canadian National Anthem, followed by the Tamil Mozhi Valththu by talented young vocalists. A solemn Akavanakkam honoured Tamil Eelam heroes and victims of the Tamil Genocide. The land acknowledgement paid respect to the unceded Algonquin Anishinaabe Territory with “Gitchi-Meegwetch!” At 5:55 PM, community representatives and elected officials joined in the ceremonial lamp lighting, symbolizing shared resolve for justice and heritage.
Cultural performances shone brightly: a captivating Welcome Dance by Balavimala Narthanalayam (Toronto), choreographed by Smt. Chithra Tharmalingam, and a semi-classical dance, choreographed by Akshara Umashankar. The evening closed with an inspiring display of traditional Tamil martial arts by OTACT Tae E. Lee Taekwondo School, led by Pathipan Sivarasa, showcasing strength, discipline, and self-belief.
OTA President and board members delivered warm reflections on ten years of impactful collaborations and achievements. The Secretary introduced the poignant documentary Buried Truth, Denied Justice, strengthening the call for accountability.
Dignitaries expressed strong solidarity through messages and in-person remarks, including from the Prime Minister (via MP Anita Anand), the Opposition Leader (via MP Matt Strauss), the Premier, Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe (who later shared heartfelt thanks on social media), Minister Gary Anandasangaree, MPs Anita Vandenbeld and Bruce Fanjoy, MPP Chandra Pasma, and MPP Tyler Watt. A special tribute video honoured MP Yasir Naqvi’s decade of steadfast support.
A standout moment was the nomination and presentation of the King Charles III Coronation Medal to Dr. Yoganathan for his outstanding contributions to the biomedical sector, Ontario, and Canada. Associate Minister MPP Vijay Thanigasalam nominated him, and the medal was presented by OTA Board member Dr. Shanchayan, with MP Matt Strauss in attendance.
At 7:15 PM, families enjoyed a delicious dinner accompanied by a lively live Tamil music concert. Youth delivered inspiring speeches on the Tamil Heritage Month theme, followed by heartfelt recognitions of exemplary Ottawa Tamil Canadians in public service and entrepreneurship.
Among the highlights:
- Retired Master Corporal Wakisan Mathiyaparanam of the Canadian Armed Forces was honoured for nearly three decades of service, including UN peacekeeping missions, and for his continued inspiration to Tamil youth.
- Superintendent Dave Zackrias of the Ottawa Police Service was recognized for 28 years of exceptional leadership. A 2025 Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Award recipient, he has championed equity, inclusion, human rights, and systemic change, becoming a trusted advocate for diversity and community safety across Ottawa.
These awards were presented by Professor Siva Sivathayalan on behalf of the Ottawa Tamil Association, celebrating role models who strengthen both Tamil heritage and Canadian society.
Sponsors were repeatedly acknowledged for their generous support, which made the evening possible. A landmark highlight was the joint $100,000 pledge by the Federation of Global Tamil Organizations (FGTO), OTA, Ottawa Tamils, and the Tamil Genocide Memorial toward the establishment of the Tamil Community Centre in Toronto, which is expected to uphold Tamil Eelam, Tamil Genocide history and the resiliency of the Tamil diaspora, transforming celebration into lasting impact for future generations.
OTA’s year-round work continues through meaningful initiatives such as the Thiyagi Thileepan Food Drive, OTA Running Club, OTA Tamil Genocide Education Project, OTA Entrepreneur Network, and plans for the 3rd International Conference on Tamil Genocide in 2030.
This milestone gala celebrated not only a decade of community leadership but also the profound contributions of Ottawa’s Tamil community to Canada—advancing justice, preserving heritage, and fostering integration.
Nandri, Canada—and heartfelt thanks to every sponsor, volunteer, performer, speaker, and attendee who made this powerful evening unforgettable!
10th Anniversary Sponsors
Ushan Group, Sri Bakavatsingam – Realtor, Jana Sivarajah – Realtor, Talenta Academy, Kakapo Technologies Inc, SkyVision Group, Creig Henry Dental, Piriya Homes – Realtor, Kapilan Ramachandran – Realtor, OTACT Tae E. Lee Taekwondo, Gravity Duct Cleaning Service, Akshara Decor, AK Beauty Makeup, RKV Accounting, A1 DUCT Cleaning Service, Sakthi Silk, Sparkler Stones, Spice World Supermarket, Divine Eye Photography, Expo Visuals, Sixty Wings – Kanata, Ahan Media, Phantom Visualz, Enchanted Booth, Vetty Home Renos, Sathi Nannithamby – Mortgage Agent, Kokulathas Chandrasegeram – Realtor, Fides Mortgages, Oritha, Jasmine Florist, Prax Homes, Ayine Restaurant, Ajax Crematorium and Brampton Crematorium & Visitation Centre, SAYTAC, Unique Design Work.
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