Stoke Conservatives attend Keralothsavam 2023!
Members of Parliament, Councillors & Members of the Federation Executive were delighted to be invited to attend the Keralothsavam 2023 event, held at the King's Hall over the weekend.
The event, which is held every five years brings together over 600 Keralite families from across Stoke-on-Trent to celebrate the culture and heritage of the community.
As the fastest growing community within the city, the Keralites who originate in Kerala, India have found a new home in Stoke-on-Trent, developing businesses and employment opportunities.
The NHS and Social Care sectors have a strong presence in the Keralite culture, with at least one member of every family working for the NHS or within the social care sector.
Jack Brereton MP attended the event and delivered a speech thanking the community for their contribution to the city. He was also asked to light the first candle on the tree of light during the event.
Following the event, Jack Brereton MP said:
"It was a privilege to be invited to attend the event, celebrating the amazing contribution of the community to our NHS and to social care. Their contribution cannot be overstated, and their desire to make Stoke-on-Trent their home is a testament to the welcoming nature of our city."
Also in attendance was Dr/Cllr Chandra Kanneganti, Conservative Candidate for Stoke-on-Trent Central, Councillor Dan Jellyman, Conservative Group Leader on Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Councillor Dave Evans and Federation Chairman Dean Richardson.
Councillor Dan Jellyman, Conservative Group Leader on Stoke-on-Trent City Council said:
"I was really pleased to be invited to the event to join the celebrations. It was clear from hearing from Keralite community leaders that this is a community that cares passionately about contributing to society through their work in the NHS and Social Care sectors. Their contribution to the city has been immense and I am very pleased that I was able to be at the event to acknowledge their contribution and to join the celebration of their community."
Dr/Cllr Chandra Kanneganti, Conservative Candidate for Stoke-on-Trent Central said:
"I was delighted to be asked to attend the event and to deliver a speech. As a local GP, I know first hand how big the contribution of the Keralite community is to the local hospital and to social care. This is the fastest growing community in the city and it arrives with a rich culture and heritage. I am delighted they have chosen to call Stoke-on-Trent home and to work in our local health service."
Dean Richardson, Chairman of City of Stoke-on-Trent Conservative Federation said:
"I'm delighted to have attended the Keralothsavam event, celebrating the culture and heritage of this growing community. This was an event filled with colour, light and laughter - this is a community with a big heart, evidenced by their invaluable contribution to our health and social care services. It was a privilege to be invited to join their celebrations and to learn more about the Kerala community within the city."
