This remarkable lady has been the live wire of the Canada Sri Lanka Association in Toronto for a number of years

Aloma receiving the Canadian Awards in 2000.

Aloma with here extended family.

Aloma playing her favourite sport Cricket.

Aloma is no ordinary person. This remarkable lady is a mother to many and has been the live wire of the Canada Sri Lanka Association in Toronto for a number of years. Words cannot express her love for the community and many have been touched by her sincere efforts to run an organization that unites all Sri Lankan ethnic groups. She’s truly a gifted individual, and has, for many years dedicated her life for the well being of fellow Sri Lankans in Canada. Read on to find out more on the organization that she leads.

Aloma is the President of the Canada Sri Lanka Association of Toronto, the premier organization of Sri Lankans in Canada. The organization celebrated their 40th anniversary on November 29, 2008 with pride and joy. This event was attended by a large crowd, old and young alike. Some even commented that it was like a reunion of friends gathered after a gap of many years.

The dance floor was packed the entire time with members and non-members all enjoying the evening. The 40 years journey had its share of disputes, dilemmas, vicissitudes and financial difficulty. There were those that ignored, left, berated or condemned the Association. But sheer grit and fortitude of the committed few who believed in its values of Equality, Fraternity and Peace stood undaunted and ready, provided and protected her in time of weakness.

The sowing of the seed and its germination occurred in homes by a few Sri Lankans inhabiting Toronto in 1968. Born as the “Ceylon Recreation Club”, in 1973 changes in direction resulted in the remaining of the club as “The Canada Sri Lanka Association of Toronto. In 1981, “Non-Profit Charity” status was granted to the Association by the Government. From 1981 to 1985 the Association broadened its scope, working with other community organizations to provide better service. The Association participated in a major cultural show at Harbourfront.

In the period that followed a flurry of new activities were introduced. The objective shifted to community development since immigration to a new country has also brought along cultural conflicts and differences. To assist in addressing such hotbed topics, seminars on “Family Violence and Child Abuse”, “Cultural Conflicts” the “Charter of Rights” etc., were held. Sports activities and friendly games were vigorously encouraged to prevent the build up of racial and ethnic tension that could have raised its ugly head due to the strife at home.

The Association that started 40 years ago is yet alive and well. United we shall stand and stand tall, but divided we shall all fall.