Founded in 1992, the Jalalabad Association of Toronto (JAT) is a cultural and community-based organization representing Bangladeshi expatriates, particularly those from the Sylhet region (Jalalabad area), in Toronto, Canada. The group focuses on preserving Bangladeshi heritage, fostering social connections, and supporting community members through various initiatives.
Jalalabad Connection
The Jalalabad region is a cultural and historical area within the Sylhet Division in northeastern Bangladesh. It is known for its strong ties to the Bangladeshi diaspora, particularly in the UK, USA, and Canada (including Toronto). Jalalabad, a colloquial name for parts of greater Sylhet, is known for its tea gardens, natural gas reserves, and agriculture. It is home to the Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal and has a rich cultural heritage, including Sylheti language, music, dance, and cuisine.
Key Activities:
Many of the association’s key activities and programs focus on Bangladesh, specifically Sylhet’s heritage, including language, traditions, cuisine, and customs.
- Jalalabad Mela: Celebrates Sylheti language, culture, and heritage, featuring cultural performances, food stalls, and other activities.
- Cultural Events: Organizes celebrations for Bangladeshi festivals like Eid, Pohela Boishakh (Bangla New Year)
- Social Gatherings: Hosts picnics, sports tournaments, and community dinners to strengthen bonds among members.
- Charitable Work: Supports relief efforts for disasters in Bangladesh and assists newcomers in Canada with settlement.
- Youth Engagement: Encourages younger generations to stay connected with their roots through cultural programs.
- Networking & Advocacy: Acts as a platform for Bangladeshi-Canadians to share resources and address community issues.
- Zakat Fund: Receives and distributes Zakat contributions among eligible persons in the Jalalabad area.
Team:
President: Mahbub Choudhury Roni
Executive Vice President: Makbul Hossain Monju
Vice President: Sarnali Mukta (Moulvibazar)
Vice President: Hossain Ahmed Loni (Syhlet)
Vice President: Fazlul Karim (Sunamganj)
Vice President: Ashjad Bakht (Habiganj)
General Secretaty: Mehedi Sharif Maruf
Asst. General Secretary: Ejaz Choudhury
Asst. General Secretary: Abu Jahir Sakib
Organizing Secretary: Rasel Ahmed
Asst. Organizing Secretary: Monsur Ahmed
Office Secretary: Abdus Salam
Finance Secretary: Faruk Ahmed
Asst. Finance Secretary: Masum Muneem Tuhin
Publication Secretary: Hasan Tarek Imam
Asst. Publication Secretary: Sanjeeb Roy
Information Technology Secretary: Tafasin Chowdhury
Religion Secretary: Habibur Rahman Chowdhury
Asst. Religion Secretary: Ali Hossain
Sports Secretary: Jewel Ahmed
Asst. Sports Secretary: Nahid Ahmed
Women’s Secretary: Jahanara Nasima
Asst. Women’s Secretary: Tahmina Chowdhury
Cultural and Social Welfare Secretary: Mirza Riffat Nuerin
Asst. Cultural & Social Welfare Secretary: Nayeem Chowdhury
Executive Member: Ilias Khan
Executive Member: Kashem Ahmed Joy
Executive Member: Bibek Sen
Executive Member: Mehedi Chowdhury