Moses Vedamuthu
Parramatta community advocate Moses Vedamuthu has been recognised with the City of Parramatta’s Citizen of the Year Award, celebrating his years of dedication to supporting people facing hardship across Western Sydney.
The award was presented during the city’s Australia Day celebrations at Parramatta Town Hall, where community members gathered to honour individuals whose service has made a lasting difference in the lives of others.
Vedamuthu is the founder of SOHAS Charity (Support Organisation for Homeless and Asylum Seekers), a volunteer-led organisation that provides practical assistance and support to vulnerable people including the homeless, refugees, migrants, international students, elderly residents and single parents.
Over the past six years, SOHAS has delivered weekly food and grocery assistance across six local government areas, including Parramatta, ensuring that hundreds of people experiencing financial hardship receive essential support. The initiative has recently expanded its outreach into the Hunter Region, further broadening its impact.
Beyond emergency relief, Vedamuthu has focused on creating opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives. Through SOHAS programs, more than 30 students have received free Diploma education, while migrants and refugees have been supported with resume preparation, skills training and employment guidance. These efforts have helped 28 people successfully secure jobs, providing them with greater stability and independence.
The organisation has also been active in raising awareness around homelessness. During National Homelessness Week, volunteers distributed over 100 blankets and sleeping bags to people sleeping rough, offering immediate relief during the colder months.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Vedamuthu said the recognition belongs to the entire community that supports the mission of helping those in need.
He emphasised that meaningful change begins with simple acts of care and responsibility toward others, adding that the award encourages him to continue serving the community and inspiring others to get involved.
Vedamuthu’s vision for the future includes establishing a SOHAS Community Hub, which aims to provide free IT and digital training opportunities for First Nations students, helping create pathways to education and empowerment.
His community work has previously been recognised with honours including the NSW Volunteer Team of the Year Award and the Australia Day Community Group Award, highlighting the growing impact of the organisation’s initiatives.
The City of Parramatta Citizen of the Year Awards recognise individuals whose dedication and compassion strengthen the social fabric of the community, and Vedamuthu’s work continues to inspire volunteers and residents alike.
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