AKMG BLOGS: AKMG Canada Annual convention June 2023, Toronto

Annual Meeting of the Association of Kerala Medical Graduates (AKMG) Canada Date: June 24, 2023 Venue: Bella Banquet Hall, King City, Ontario Event Report The annual meeting of the Association of Kerala Medical Graduates (AKMG) Canada was successfully held on June 24, 2023 at the Bella Banquet Hall in King City, Ontario. The event brought together 170 attendees, ranging in age from 2 to 90 years, including AKMG members, their families, and friends.

The organizing committee, led by Dr. Krishnakumar Nair (President AKMG Canada), Dr. Usha Harikumar (Secretary AKMG Canada), and Dr. Anil Joseph (Treasurer AKMG Canada), worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth execution of the program. Several other committee members, including Mr. Krishnan Harikumar, Dr. Archana Abhayambika, Dr. Radhika Nair, Dr. Nisha Nigil, Dr. Sumesh Menon, and Chanchal Mahin, also contributed significantly to the event's coordination. The registration counter was efficiently managed by Rohan Harikumar, Madhav Nair, and Ritvik Harikumar, ensuring a seamless check-in process for all the attendees. The lamp lighting ceremony was conducted by esteemed senior members of AKMG Canada, including Dr. PK Kutty, Dr. Bhavani Nair, Dr. Raji Menon, and Dr. Mariamma Joseph. Their presence added a sense of tradition and honor to the event. This year, the event saw the participation of many new members, including AKMG kids, parents, extended families, and friends. The organizers were particularly pleased to engage a significant number of new-immigrant international medical graduates, fostering a sense of community and support among medical professionals. Diversifying the entertainment program, the event featured performances by talented individuals. Dr. Nigil Haroon, Dr. Archana Nair, Dr. Radhika Nair, Dr. Krishnakumar Nair, Firoz Ahmed, Harikumar, Mr. Murali Nair, Dr. Bhavani Nair, Dr. Vinod Chandran, Dr. Shelly Chandran, Chanchal, and folk songs by Team Kanal led by Mr. Jithu Damodar added joy and vibrancy to the event. Furthermore, attendees were treated to energetic dances, including bhangra and Bollywood numbers performed by Dr. Lekha Kurup, Dr. Radhika Nair, Dr. Usha Harikumar, Dr. Jisha Vimoj, Dr. Nisha Nigil, Dr. Smitha Kacheri, Chanchal, Dr. Kirthika Venkatesan, and Sudha Hari. One of the highlights of the meeting was a panel discussion on various medical topics, including diabetes, back pain, menopause, ADHD in adults, and sudden cardiac death. Dr. Krishnakumar Nair moderated the discussion, while speakers Dr. Anil Joseph, Dr. Vinod Chandran, Dr. Nisha Nigil, and Dr. Usha Harikumar shared their expertise and insights on these important subjects. Dr. Iqbal Vadakkayil entertained the audience with his captivating stand-up comedy act, adding laughter and amusement to the proceedings. During the event, AKMG Canada acknowledged the support of its sponsors, Mr. Santosh Pillai, Mr. Manoj Karatha, and Mr. Sabu Varghese, who were honored for their contributions to the organization in 2022. Dr. Nisha Nigil presented the AKMG President's Award 2021 to Drs. Usha Harikumar, Shereen Brajit, and Lekha Kurup in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the medical community. The young AKMG members, consisting of newly arrived international medical doctors from Kerala, showcased their talent through a hilarious comedy skit, which added a touch of lightheartedness to the event. The performers included Drs. Sumesh Menon, Tasyoh, Neelufer Irene, Geethi Rose, Sruthi, Sreeja Kumar, Teena, Carmel, and their spouses.The event's audio support was provided by Simon, ensuring clear and seamless audio throughout the program. The photography was skillfully handled by Robinson Nelson, capturing the memorable moments of the event.Additionally, the AKMG Canada event witnessed the philanthropic efforts of young participants Farhan Haroon, Rohan Kumar, and Vihaan Nair, who ran a lemonade stand and raised 280 CAD for the organization. The sponsorship for the event was provided by Mr. Manoj Karatha, a leading realtor in Canada.Registration of the event was subidized to encourage maximum participation and engagement. To culminate the event, attendees enjoyed a sumptuous buffet, including Indian cuisine, catered by the Bella Banquet Hall. The annual meeting of AKMG Canada proved to be a resounding success, leaving participants with cherished memories, new friendships, enhanced social skills, and a strengthened sense of community. The event showcased the commitment and dedication of the organizers and the unwavering support of the AKMG community. As AKMG Canada continues to grow, we aim to improve and provide a platform for medical professionals to connect, learn, and thrive together in Canada.