Our Goal

Trafford Malayalee Association (TMA) is a non-profit social and cultural organization for people from Kerala, India, living in the UK. Established in December 2005, TMA consists of 105 families, many of whom work within the NHS. The association aims to bridge the gap created by the logistical and financial challenges of traveling to India, fostering a sense of community and belonging among its members. TMA organises various events and competitions to help children understand and learn about Indian culture. The association’s main objective is to encourage and provide facilities for social, cultural, and sports activities, integrating with the wider community and promoting the values and identity of the Malayalee diaspora in the Trafford area. Members are encouraged to participate and take leadership roles in activities, enhancing their skills and talents. The primary beneficiaries will be the 105 families in our association, especially the children who will learn about their heritage. The wider Trafford community will also benefit from increased cultural awareness and engagement. We gather feedback from participants and volunteers to understand what worked well and what could be improved. This will help us refine our approach and plan even better events in the future.

 

Our projects fosters strong relationships within the Malayalee community and with the wider Trafford community through cultural events and activities. These gatherings help build a sense of belonging and mutual support. We actively engage with our community through initiatives like Lostock Park clean-up and maintenance, and fundraising activities. Many of our members work at Trafford General Hospital, contributing to local well-being. We organise events in accessible, well-equipped venues, creating welcoming environments for everyone. By providing dance lessons and opportunities to participate in cultural programs, we support children and adults in developing their skills and talents, helping them reach their full potential. Our project addresses the sense of separation and loneliness experienced by the Malayalee community due to logistical and financial burdens (with the funding support), especially in the context of the cost-of-living crisis. We provide a supportive network and accessible social venues to alleviate these challenges.

 

We hold regular steering group meetings with representatives from different age groups and genders to ensure diverse perspectives. We also conduct open forums and general body meetings where members can voice their opinions and suggestions directly. Our members are involved in community work such as Lostock Park clean-up and maintenance, and many work at Trafford General Hospital, contributing to local well-being. We gather feedback from participants via social media channels after each event to evaluate success and identify areas for improvement. Volunteers are integral to our operations, and their feedback helps us refine our strategies. The idea for our project came from direct interactions with community members, ensuring our programs meet their needs and foster a sense of belonging and mutual support. The Association provides opportunities and encourages its members to participate and take leadership in all activities to enhance their skills and talents.