Engage Second- Generation Malayalis
Sony Thomas Ambooken
Profession: IT Director
Country: United States
Years of Migration: 25
My participation in the previous LKS (Loka Kerala Sabha) was both a privilege and a deeply meaningful experience. As a representative of the Malayali Diaspora residing in the United States, and as an active member of FOKANA with strong grassroots involvement in the state of Connecticut, the Assembly provided a rare and powerful platform to connect global Malayali voices with Kerala’s democratic, social, and developmental aspirations. It reaffirmed the idea that migration does not dilute identity; rather, it expands responsibility.
The Assembly enabled structured dialogue between the Government of Kerala and Diaspora representatives from diverse professional, cultural and geographic backgrounds. Discussions around non-resident Keralite (NRK) welfare, investment facilitation, education, healthcare and cultural preservation were particularly impactful. What stood out was the seriousness with which Diaspora inputs were heard and documented, moving beyond symbolism toward consultative governance. For many of us, the Assembly validated years of community service undertaken abroad and strengthened our emotional and institutional ties to Kerala.
Following the Assembly, there was a noticeable increase in coordination and momentum within the Malayali Diaspora in the United States, especially through federations such as FOKANA and local associations. In Connecticut, the Assembly served as a catalyst for renewed engagement, community discussions on Kerala’s development priorities, youth leadership initiatives, cultural preservation programmes and philanthropic efforts intensified. Topics such as supporting Kerala during natural disasters, strengthening healthcare access, promoting Malayalam language learning among second-generation youth and facilitating knowledge transfer in areas like technology and healthcare gained renewed focus.
One tangible outcome was the strengthening of collaboration between Diaspora organisations and Kerala-based institutions. Professionals in healthcare, education, technology and public policy began exploring structured ways to contribute through mentorship programmes, academic collaborations, policy advisory inputs and social impact projects. The Assembly also reinforced the importance of unity across political, religious and organisational lines within the Diaspora, emphasising Kerala’s collective interest over individual affiliations.
Looking ahead, the LKS has immense potential to evolve into a sustained, outcome-driven global platform for Diaspora welfare and Kerala’s socio-economic development. First, continuity is critical. Between Assemblies, thematic working groups focused on areas such as healthcare, education, employment, technology, investment and youth engagement—should remain active with clear mandates, timelines and measurable outcomes. Digital collaboration platforms like Loka Keralam Online can enable year-round engagement, allowing Diaspora members to contribute expertise irrespective of geography.
Second, greater inclusion of youth and second-generation Malayalis is essential for long-term relevance. The Assembly must intentionally create leadership pathways for younger professionals, students and entrepreneurs, ensuring that Diaspora engagement remains future-ready. This includes integrating emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, sustainability, climate resilience and digital governance, fields where the Diaspora can offer significant value to Kerala.
Third, Diaspora welfare must be approached holistically. Issues such as migration support, legal assistance, mental health, elder care and reintegration for returnees require coordinated policy attention. The Assembly can serve as a bridge between host countries and Kerala, sharing best practices and advocating for the rights and well-being of Keralites abroad.
In conclusion, the LKS represents a visionary model of participatory global governance. My experience, both at the Assembly and through subsequent Diaspora activities in the United States, has reinforced my belief that Kerala’s global community is one of its greatest assets. With strategic planning, sustained engagement, and inclusive leadership, the Assembly can play a transformative role in shaping a prosperous, resilient and globally connected Kerala.