Sydney Community Group (SCG) – February Newsletter

Dear SCG Community,?

Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, Sydney Community Group extends its warmest wishes for a year filled with joy, prosperity, and success. We also take this opportunity to wish our Chinese and East Asian friends a wonderful Lunar New Year, celebrating new beginnings, happiness, and unity.?

Reflecting on the past year, we are immensely grateful for the unwavering support of our community. Your dedication and generosity have been the driving force behind our initiatives, turning every achievement into a shared success. December was a month of giving, unity, and impact, and as we move forward, we remain committed to fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.?

This edition of our newsletter highlights the key moments that shaped December and January—our commitment to supporting those in need during the festive season, new partnerships that strengthen our impact, and exciting events that celebrate excellence and cultural diversity.?

Let’s take a look at what we’ve accomplished together and what’s ahead for 2025!

Inside This Issue:

? Spreading Festive Cheer: SCG Becomes Santa’s Helper?

? SCG Joins Hands with Homelessness NSW?

? Welcoming Sumeet Saigal – Australia’s Culinary Icon – to SIMBA 2025?

? SCG Supports the McGrath Foundation at the Iconic Pink Test?

? Upcoming Events & SCG’s Vision for 2025

SCG Spreads Festive Cheer with the Holiday Donation Drive

During the festive season, Sydney Community Group (SCG) partnered with the Haymarket Foundation to organise a Holiday Donation Drive, ensuring vulnerable families received essential items during Christmas and New Year.??

Our Santa’s Helper initiative aimed to bring warmth, hope, and joy to those facing challenges during the holidays. Thanks to the generosity of our community, SCG successfully collected and distributed essential supplies, reinforcing the spirit of giving and inclusivity.

We believe that no one should feel left behind during the festive season. This initiative highlights the power of collective kindness and the impact it can have on those in need.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed! Your kindness made a real difference, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to uplift communities throughout the year.

Sydney Community Group(SCG) Joins Hands with Homelessness NSW

We are proud to announce that Sydney Community Group (SCG) has officially become a member of Homelessness NSW, strengthening our commitment to tackling homelessness and advocating for housing stability, social inclusion, and economic participation across the state.

This partnership marks a significant step in our ongoing efforts to support vulnerable communities and create sustainable opportunities for those in need. Through collaboration with Homelessness NSW and other key stakeholders, SCG aims to drive long-term change and meaningful solutions to the housing crisis.?

“Our mission has always been to foster a more inclusive society. Joining Homelessness NSW strengthens our ability to advocate for real solutions and create a lasting impact.” – Indu Ponnusamy, Chair, Sydney Community Group

We invite community members and organisations to support this initiative. Donations help fund critical services and advocacy efforts to reduce homelessness in Australia.?

?? To learn more or contribute, visit our official website.?

Sydney Community Group(SCG) Supports the McGrath Foundation at the Pink Test 2025

SCG kicked off 2025 by proudly supporting the McGrath Foundation at the iconic Pink Test, held at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This 5th Test match between India and Australia (as part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy) provided a platform to raise essential funds for breast cancer support and education.?

SCG’s participation aligns with our ongoing efforts to foster awareness and contribute to meaningful social change.?

SCG’s support for the McGrath Foundation at the Pink Test underscores our dedication to community-driven initiatives. Wearing pink is more than a gesture—it is a statement of solidarity and a commitment to those impacted by breast cancer.” – Indu Ponnusamy, Chair, Sydney Community Group?

We were also thrilled to have our Youth Representatives at the stadium, actively raising awareness alongside Indu Ponnusamy. This initiative follows SCG’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign in October, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to supporting individuals and families affected by the disease.?

Sydney Community Group (SCG) Welcomes Sumeet Saigal to SIMBA 2025?

We are thrilled to welcome Sumeet Saigal, one of the Top 8 contestants of MasterChef Australia and Australia’s representative at the World Food Championships in the USA, to SIMBA Multicultural Awards 2025!

Renowned for her culinary excellence and dedication to social impact, Sumeet continues to inspire through her work in the community. As a brand ambassador for SoftLabs, she actively supports initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and positive change.?

“We are delighted to have Sumeet join us at SIMBA 2025. Her journey, marked by perseverance and passion, aligns with the very essence of SIMBA—celebrating those who make a real difference in our communities.” – Manjula Viwanath, CEO, Sydney Community Group?

Majula continued SIMBA (Strength in Millions Born to Achieve) is a prestigious platform that honours individuals and organisations driving positive social change. This annual event brings together leaders, changemakers, and cultural icons in a celebration of achievement, diversity, and community impact.?

?? Nominate now!? We invite nominations across various categories. ? Hurry!!!!—nominations close on 28th February 2025!?

?? For more details and to submit your nomination, click here.?

Looking Ahead: What’s Next in 2025??

As we celebrate our achievements, we also look forward to a year filled with new opportunities to create a lasting impact. Your support—whether through volunteering, donations, or simply spreading awareness—is the heartbeat of our mission.?

Upcoming Event: SIMBA Multicultural Awards 2025 – A Night to Remember!?

?? Date: 11th April 2025?

?? Venue: Doltone House, Darling Island Wharf, Pyrmont?

? Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM?

Reserve your spot today! Seating is limited, and tickets are selling fast.??

Don’t miss the chance to be part of a spectacular evening honouring changemakers, cultural diversity, and community-driven success.?

?? Book your tickets now before they sell out!?

Stay Connected!?

Follow SCG on LinkedIn & Social Media to stay updated on upcoming initiatives and events. Together, let’s make 2025 a year of impact, inclusion, and community strength!?

Event Highlights