A Vision to Serve: How Moses Vedamuthu Built a Movement of Hope in Western Sydney

What began as a simple desire to help people in need has grown into a powerful community movement led by Moses Vedamuthu, a leader whose work is transforming lives across Western Sydney.

This year, Vedamuthu’s commitment to community service was recognised when he was named the City of Parramatta’s Citizen of the Year, one of the city’s highest civic honours. The award was presented during the Australia Day celebrations at Parramatta Town Hall, acknowledging individuals whose dedication has made a significant impact on the community.

Vedamuthu is the founder of SOHAS Charity (Support Organisation for Homeless and Asylum Seekers), an organisation that has become a vital support network for many people experiencing hardship. Through the work of SOHAS, vulnerable members of the community — including elders, people experiencing homelessness, refugees, survivors of domestic violence, single parents and international students — receive essential support and guidance.

Under Vedamuthu’s leadership, SOHAS has spent the past six years providing weekly food and grocery assistance across six local government areas in Western Sydney, including Parramatta. The organisation has also recently expanded its services to the Hunter Region, reaching even more individuals and families in need.

But Vedamuthu’s vision extends beyond immediate relief. His goal has always been to empower people with the tools and opportunities needed to rebuild their lives.

Through education initiatives led by SOHAS, more than 30 students have been able to pursue free Diploma courses, while migrants and refugees have received support with resume preparation, career guidance and training. These efforts have helped 28 people successfully gain employment, opening doors to stability and independence.

The organisation also plays an important role in addressing homelessness in the community. During National Homelessness Week, Vedamuthu and his team distributed over 100 blankets and sleeping bags to individuals sleeping rough, providing warmth and support during the colder months.

For Vedamuthu, the recognition is not just about personal achievement but about the collective effort of those working together to strengthen the community.

“This honour fills me with pride and purpose,” he said. “Being a good citizen means taking responsibility for the wellbeing of the community. Even small actions can create meaningful change in someone’s life.”

Looking ahead, Vedamuthu hopes to establish a SOHAS Community Hub, a space that will offer free IT and digital training for First Nations students, helping create pathways to education, skills development and long-term empowerment.

Vedamuthu’s work has previously been recognised through several awards, including the NSW Volunteer Team of the Year Award and the Australia Day Community Group Award, reflecting the growing recognition of SOHAS’s impact.

As the Citizen of the Year, Vedamuthu’s story stands as a reminder that leadership driven by compassion can inspire change — not just for individuals, but for entire communities.