Secretary's Address

It is indeed an honor and privilege to be elected as FOKANA General Secretary for the 2010-2012 term. I thank all of you for your support and look forward to working with the FOKANA Executive Committee and National Committee.

As I look back at my experiences with FOKANA, I recall my days as a youth attending FOKANA conference with my parents. I was present for the first FOKANA convention in 1983. As I have grown up I have watched FOKANA grow. What started as a small seed planted by Dr. M. Anirudhan for providing immigrants and first generation Malayalees an opportunity to celebrate, experience and cultivate our rich heritage and culture has blossomed into a beautiful flowery tree. Growing up, my parents also planted that seed in my heart and mind. The seed of love for cultural, heritage, love for India, and love for the

Kerala Malayalee community. It was important to learn about these values and attending FOKANA conferences provided an avenue for many immigrant parents to demonstrate to their children the values and culture of their motherland. Throughout the years, FOKANA has provided many educational and cultural seminars and programs that are relevant to the youth as well as to the adults.

Along the way, many great leaders have worked very diligently for this prestigious organization helping to nurture this organization. When I look back at FOKANA's history, I think about the 2006 Convention.

One mans desire for the truth and justice forever changed the landscape and history of FOKANA. FOKANA has endeavored through many legal battles. Weathering that storm, the flowery tree stood strong and has continued to blossom and grow stronger.

I never would have envisioned that I would one day have the opportunity to serve in a capacity like those great leaders. As I look back at the General Secretaries before me, I know I have great responsibilities in front of me. I look forward to working along side the National Committee to plan various activities for the

next two years. Planning these activities will take time and effort from everyone. We as the 2010-2012 National Committee have many ideas and goals. I request the support of each and everyone of you in strengthening FOKANA and helping FOKANA to become and remain the organization that everyone looks to and aspires to be.

Bobby K. Jacob

General Secretary, FOKANA