Sujith Mysore hails from the coffee town of Chikkamagaluru and has called Australia home since 2006. He completed his Master’s in Information Technology at Queensland University of Technology and has been based in Canberra since 2011. Sujith currently works as a Program Manager, leading large-scale Cyber Security programs within the Department of Disability, Health and Aged Care, and also runs his own IT consulting firm.

A passionate community leader, Sujith has been actively involved in service and leadership roles for over two decades. His contributions span across being Zonal Secretary for Rotaract International during college days in India, International Student Ambassador at QUT, Student Ambassador for Sun Microsystems, and long-standing leadership roles within the Australian Computer Society, including serving as a National Board Member. He has also held key community positions such as Secretary of FINACT, Vice-President of the Karnataka Association of Canberra and founding committee member of Canberra Hindu Mandir. As President of KAC, Sujith is committed to fostering inclusion, cultural pride, and strong community connections.

I am originally from Bangalore but have called Australia home for 20 years now. Having lived in Perth for 12 yrs, moved to Canberra in 2016 and have been part of the KAC community since then. I have been part of the KAC Committee twice before and feel privileged and humbled to serve the community as President this time. I have also been a founder member of Western Australia Kannada Sangha and served in WAKS committee for several years in various roles. I have also been part of Indian Society of Western Australia and organised many cultural and community events.  I wear many hats of being an Ayurvedic Physician, lecturer, Associate Dean, foster carer and now pursuing a career in Public Service, I am an arts devotee having practiced Bharatnatyam for many years and been part of many theatrical plays.

Growing up in bangalore has exposed me to various languages and cultures. I can speak fluently in kannada, telugu tamil  hindi and malayalam. Apart from that I enjoy reading, watching documentaries & movies, camping, cooking and playing snooker.

Namaskara

I have been an active member of the Kannada Association of Canberra (KAC) for over 15 years, and it has truly been a rewarding journey. Being part of this beautiful Karnataka community in Canberra feels like being part of an extended family. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on the Executive Committee and contribute in a meaningful way.

I genuinely enjoy planning and organising cultural events that celebrate our traditions, language, and heritage. Bringing people together, especially families and children, and creating spaces where we can connect, celebrate, and support one another gives me immense happiness.

I look forward to engaging more with our wider community and working together to continue building and growing our vibrant Karnataka community here in Canberra.

I moved to Australia in 2017 and proud to call it my new home. Before moving to Canberra, I lived in Capital of Sunshine State, Brisbane. I am in love with Brisbane and identify myself as Queenslander. I was actively served in Kannada Sangha Queensland as a Public relation officer for 2 years  which drove me to be part of this beautiful committee of KAC. Before moving to Australia, I spent my 4 years in Singapore. In Karnataka I studied in Belgaum Now I am presently working as phlebotomist in Canberra . I would like to be part of this Karnataka Association of Canberra, to make new friends and work for the betterment of Kannada people into this beautiful country of Australia. I want to be as Rashtra Kavi Kuvempu said “ಎಲ್ಲಾದರು ಇರು ಎಂತಾದರು ಇರು ಎಂದೆಂದಿಗೂ ನೀ ಕನ್ನಡವಾಗಿರು”.

Our community is only as vibrant as the energy we pour into it. After 14 years of living in Canberra, I’ve seen how our traditions ground us, but it is our participation that moves us forward. I’m stepping up to help coordinate our upcoming events—not just to manage a schedule, but to build a home away from home for all of us. Join me in making our next gathering a reflection of our shared pride.

Namaskara! I’m Shruthi, I hail from Shivamogga which is known for its lush green landscapes and cultural richness. I hold a Master’s degree in Computer Applications and boast valuable experience in the IT sector. Currently, reside in Canberra, where I’m thrilled to embrace the role of a KAC committee Treasurer and contribute my best to our community.I am passionate about seeing events through and turning work in on time. I’m eager to put in the effort to organize even more successful events during our tenure.

I relocated to Canberra in 2009 from Hubballi, a vibrant city in North Karnataka. Since then, I have been actively attending KAC events and have truly enjoyed connecting with fellow Kannadigas and being part of this wonderful community.

As a proud mother of two lovely girls, I am excited about this opportunity to help foster a welcoming and meaningful networking space for Kannadigas. I look forward to contributing to our community to celebrate our rich culture, strengthen connections and to keep me connected to my roots.

Venkatesh Bidarkal has been an active and committed member of the Canberra community since migrating to Australia in 1997. For nearly three decades, he has played a significant role in strengthening community networks, particularly within the Indian and Kannada diaspora.

A passionate community leader, Venkatesh has served in several executive positions with the Karnataka Association of Canberra (KAC), including multiple terms as President. During his leadership, he championed collaboration among Kannada associations across Australia, contributing to the establishment of Australia Kannada Koota Incorporation (AKKI) as a national umbrella body.

Beyond KAC, Venkatesh has held key leadership roles across various organisations, including:

• Indo Australia Association of Canberra (IAAC) – Executive Committee Member
• FINACT – Executive Committee Member, Community Services Coordinator, Seniors Coordinator, and long-term Office Bearer
• Australia Kannada Koota Incorporation (AKKI) – Public Officer and Executive Committee Member

Known for his collaborative approach and strong community focus, Venkatesh remains committed to building meaningful partnerships and promoting the positive contributions of the Indian community across Australia.

Been a globe trotter! Now an Ozzie, lived in Wagga Wagga, Gold Coast and currently in Canberra. My only gorgeous little one keeps me on my toes. KAC events were an opportunity to introduce our culture, festivals, food and color to my little one! I will continue to do so. Been a member of the 2018-19 committee and back on again! My favorite adage…. If you want to go quickly, go alone! If you want to go far, go together…

Viji is basically from South part of India,Bengaluru. Viji moved to Australia on 2016 and relocated to Canberra in 2018. Has been active member of KAC from 2018. Currently working in ATO. Outside work, I have a small family and I love spending time with them and friends. Hobbies: Love dancing and art work.

I came to Australia in 2019 from the beautiful city of sculptures Hassan, Karnataka. Canberra is my first home in Australia and has always been my happy place. I have joined the KAC family in 2023 and it gives me great pleasure to be a part of KAC committee 2023-24. Through this opportunity I would like to contribute and celebrate our KAC vision, extend our love and support to one another. I have practiced Bharatanatyam for 6 years and have performed on various occasions. I am looking forward to serving the KAC community and uphold our values and beliefs.

Hello! I’m Sowmya Neenakri, honoured to be part of the KAC committee. Being involved with the Karnataka Association of Canberra allows me to stay connected to our roots while helping create meaningful cultural and social experiences for our community. Through KAC, I enjoy supporting events and initiatives that bring families together and strengthen our community bonds.