About Us
Our Story and History
The Wiltshire Malayalee Association (WMA) was founded in 2004, but its roots trace back to 2003, when a small group of Malayalee families in Swindon gathered to celebrate their cultural heritage, particularly the festival of Onam. As the community grew, so did the need for a formal organization, and WMA was officially established in May 2004. By 2012, the association became a registered charity, marking an important milestone in its development.
Today, WMA is a vibrant and inclusive community that serves as a home away from home for Malayalees in Wiltshire. We are dedicated to preserving the cultural traditions of Kerala while fostering unity and support within the community. Through a diverse range of activities—cultural celebrations, social events, educational programs, and charitable initiatives—we bring people together and create lasting connections.
At WMA, education plays a key role in keeping our culture alive. We offer language classes and workshops that explore Kerala’s rich art, music, and dance. These initiatives help younger generations connect with their roots while providing a space for all members to celebrate and share Kerala’s heritage.
As a registered charity, WMA is committed to giving back to the wider community. We actively support charitable causes both within the Malayalee community and beyond, always striving to make a positive impact through acts of compassion and service.
Our vision extends beyond our own community. Through cultural exchanges and collaborations with the wider Wiltshire community, we aim to foster mutual understanding, promote inclusivity, and bridge cultural gaps, helping to create a more connected and harmonious society.
Join us and become part of a dynamic, welcoming community that celebrates the essence of Kerala while promoting unity, inclusivity, and cultural understanding.
Our Aims and Objectives
At WMA, we are committed to:
Fostering Community Well-being: Promoting the holistic development of individuals and families within the Malayalee community and beyond.
Advancing Education: Encouraging educational initiatives that emphasize family unity, development, and lifelong learning.
Social and Welfare Support: Supporting individuals in need through charitable activities, ensuring that social and welfare needs are met effectively.
Preserving Cultural Heritage: Celebrating and promoting the rich traditions, language, and cultural practices of Kerala while embracing multiculturalism.
How We Work
The WMA operates under a structured governance framework to ensure transparency and inclusivity :
Executive Committee: An elected body responsible for decision-making, planning, and administration. It includes roles such as the President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, and other key positions.
Core Committee: Supporting the Executive Committee, this team focuses on operational tasks, event coordination, communication, and fundraising.
Membership: Membership is open to all Malayalees living in Wiltshire. Membership campaigns will be run each year to accept new members. You can contact the committee for more details.
Subgroups and Area Representatives: Our members are organized into subgroups based on their area of residence. Each area has a dedicated representative to coordinate activities and ensure effective communication.
What We Do
Cultural Events: Organizing vibrant festivals, cultural programs, and community gatherings to promote togetherness and celebrate Kerala’s traditions.
Educational Workshops: Providing opportunities for skill development, personal growth, and family enrichment.
Charitable Activities: Offering assistance to those in need, including fundraising initiatives and welfare support for the community and beyond.
Women's Forum : Our Women’s Forum is a dedicated platform to empower and connect women in the Malayalee community of Wiltshire. Through events and initiatives, it promotes personal growth, collaboration, and a supportive space for women to thrive.
Youth and Volunteer Engagement: Encouraging active participation from youth and volunteers in various activities to nurture leadership and community service.
Networking Opportunities: Building a platform for individuals and families to connect, share resources, and collaborate for mutual growth.