The South East Bangladeshi Cultural Foundation (SEBCF) is a non-profit, non-political, and non-religious community organization based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, dedicated to preserving and promoting Bangla language and culture among Bangladeshi Australians.
Main Activities
- Cultural Programs: Hosts music and dance performances, literary gatherings, art exhibitions, and community festivals like International Mother Language Day, Pohela Boishakh, Bangladeshi national events (Independence Day, Victory Day)
- Language Education: Operates the South East Bangla School (SEBS) in Berwick, offering Bangla language classes and cultural activities for children and youth on Sundays during Victorian school terms. SEBS is a member of the Ethnic Schools Association of Victoria.
- Community Well-being: Supports the SEBS Parents Club, facilitating social connections through sports, games, and events, such as, cricket, soccer, card games, and carom competitions.
Organizational Focus
- Mission: To serve as a cultural hub, bringing the community together to celebrate shared heritage and values, fostering intergenerational and cross-cultural understanding.
- Vision: To create a dynamic, inclusive platform where Bangali identity and heritage can thrive for generations.
- Future Goals: Expanding educational programs, offering scholarships, and building partnerships for cultural exchange and community development.
South East Bangla School (SEBS)
South East Bangla School (SEBS) is an educational initiative managed by the South East Bangladeshi Cultural Foundation. Located in Berwick, Melbourne, SEBS is a community school dedicated to preserving the Bangla language and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh. The school’s mission is to empower students with linguistic and cultural skills that will enable them to thrive in an interconnected world while remaining rooted in their identity.
SEBS offers classes every Sunday from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm during Victorian school terms. The curriculum is designed for children of all backgrounds and proficiency levels, focusing on key language skills like speaking, listening, reading, and writing, while fostering cultural identity and pride. Classes are supported by activities that promote creativity, community values, and cross-cultural understanding.
South East Bangla School is an accredited community language school by the Government of Victoria. It is a member of the Ethnic Schools Association of Victoria, upholding high standards in community-based education.
SEBS Parents Club
The South East Bangladeshi Cultural Foundation (SEBCF) maintains a parent club.
- Sports & recreation (cricket, soccer, carom, ludo, board games)
- Social gatherings (meet-ups, cultural events, barbecues)
- Supportive network for families within the Bangladeshi-Australian community
Membership
Membership for South East Bangla School (SEBS) is $20 per year.
Team
President (Principal): Kanija Chowdhury (Dina)
Vice President: Mahbuba Haque Shomaji (Ruma)
General Secretary: Mahbub Amin
Treasurer: Abdullah Al Amin
Asst. General Secretary 1: Amranul Haque
Asst. General Secretary 2: Rubyath Sohel
Joint Secretary 1 (Child Safety): Mohammad Ashraful Islam (Apu)
Joint Secretary 2 (Child Safety): Sharzil Yousufi
Curriculum Secretary (School Operations): Iffat Ara
Cultural Secretary (First Aid): Shahanara Begum (Shumona)
Organising Secretary (Development): Ummay Salma Jahan
Organising Secretary (Event): Sharif Imtiaz Khan (Nayan)
Publication Secretary: Jiaul Islam
Sports Secretary: Feroz Ahmed
Social Welfare Secretary: Mohammad Khaleduzzaman
Executive Member 1: Dr. Shah Ahmed Sharif (Shuvo)
Executive Member 2: Mahbub Chowdhury