Namaste and Jai Shree Krishna,
I hope this report finds you in good health and high spirits. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the AMSUK Youth Forum Team for their visionary efforts and unwavering dedication in bringing the Chai & Chat Event to life in Leicester. I also wish to express deep appreciation to the management committee and all the volunteers of Shree Mandhata Sahayak Mandal, Leicester, for their invaluable support in facilitating this event. The memorabilia display was truly captivating, evoking cherished memories and a deep sense of nostalgia.
Our elders occupy a special place in our hearts, representing our past, present, and future. Their sacrifices and contributions have laid the foundation upon which we build our lives, and it is only fitting that we honour and celebrate their legacy. We take immense pride in their journey and the cultural heritage they have preserved and passed down to us. It is essential that we learn from their experiences, understanding our roots and cultural identity to shape a brighter future.
Chai & Chat events are designed to unite our local communities in a relaxed and informal setting. They offer a unique opportunity for elders and younger members to share invaluable stories, memories, and life experiences. Our elders’ stories, resilience, and journeys are treasures that enrich our lives. Through Chai & Chat events, we aim to honour them, learn from their experiences, and bridge the generational gap by fostering a deeper understanding between young and old. These events provide a platform to hear firsthand about the struggles and triumphs our elders faced when they first arrived in the UK, the evolution of family dynamics, and the true essence of their enduring legacies.
The Chai & Chat Event in Leicester was a tremendous success, with nearly a hundred attendees. The “Open Mic” session provided vibrant exchanges where memories were shared, life journeys were recounted, and invaluable lessons were learned. The roti (Chapati) rolling competition was entertaining, and the delicious Nasto (Snacks) provided during the break were enjoyed by all.
The Chai & Chat Events will culminate in a grand celebration planned for September 2025 in Leicester. This event will unite towns from across the nation in a magnificent tribute to our elders. It will be a momentous occasion to capture videos, conduct interviews, gather memorabilia, and celebrate the collective journey of our community. While the spotlight will shine brightly on our elders, the event will also celebrate the remarkable progress our community has made.
Warm regards,
Hasmukh S. Patel
President – AMSUK
The AMSUK Youth Forum in collaboration with Shree Mandhata Samaj Sahayak Mandal Leicester will be hosting a Chai and Chat event on 14th July 2024 from 1pm to 5pm at Shree Mandhata Hall, 1 Hartington Road, Leicester, LE2 0GP.
The theme of the event will focus on exploring our roots and sharing stories and experiences of early migrants to the UK, particularly from India and Africa. It will be presented by members of the Youth Forum in English and Gujarati. There will be a questions and answers session with questions presented to all the attendees in separate envelopes. The questions will be aligned with the event’s theme. Tea and snacks will also be served. There will also be a couple of competitions involving all.
Members of all ages of the Mandhata Community are invited to come and participate in this event. Please bring along any old photos or videos that you might want to share. The purpose of this event is to provide a valuable insight into our roots and the sacrifices made by our previous generations. Congratulations to the Youth Forum for bringing attention to this important but often overlooked topic.