Mathivathani Shanthi Eswaran

Candidate for Board of Directors, FeTNA 2026

Born: Kolathur, Salem District
Home: Columbus, Ohio
Work: Social Worker
Tamil Sangam: Columbus Tamil Sangam, Ohio

"Diversity is having a seat at the table ,inclusion is having a voice ,and belonging is having that voice be heard." — Liz Fosslien
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Rooted in Tamil Identity. Driven by Service. Committed to Community. I carry with me the values, culture, and community spirit that shaped my early years in Tamil Nadu. My journey across continents, roles, and responsibilities has always been anchored in service, language, and empowerment.

FeTNA Involvement

My connection with FeTNA has been one of purpose and heartfelt commitment.

Volunteer, Helping Hearts – FeTNA 2022 Supported emergency response coordination for my zone, ensuring timely help for families in need.

Volunteer, Aatralmigu Pengal – FeTNA 2022 Participated in identifying and honoring inspiring women achievers for International Women's Day.

Current Member, Valviyal Marabu Maruthuva Kulu Engaged in promoting traditional wellness knowledge and community health awareness.

These experiences deepened my belief that collective action and cultural pride can transform communities.

Tamil Sangam Journey

My involvement with the Columbus Tamil Sangam began in 2017 and has grown into a meaningful, multilayered journey of leadership and service.

Volunteer

This was where I first felt how Sangam fills the emotional and cultural void for Tamils living abroad connecting us to our traditions, festivals, and shared identity.

Cultural Coordinator

Organized cultural programs, managed registrations, curated program flow, and coordinated backstage operations to ensure smooth, memorable events.

Secretary

Led team meetings, prepared agendas and minutes, and supported event execution with clarity and structure. During my tenure, we celebrated the 25th Silver Jubilee Year of the Columbus Tamil Sangam and released a special printed edition of Saaral Magazine a milestone I am proud to have helped achieve.

We also arranged a meet-and-greet for parents visiting from India a simple idea that blossomed into a beautiful, well-loved community moment.

I also serve on the Editorial Board of Saaral E-Magazine and am an active member of Columbus Tamil Thinnai (Literature Wing).

Through Columbus Tamil Thinnai, we donated Tamil books to local libraries, helping bring a piece of our homeland closer to home.

Trustee (Current)

Provide guidance, support during emergencies, volunteer at events, and help conduct executive elections with fairness and transparency.

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Writer, Storyteller, and Lifelong Lover of Tamil

My writing journey began at age 19 when I was selected as a Student Reporter for Vikatan Publications. Since then, writing has remained my constant companion through blogs, novels, short stories, and book reviews. Tamil is not just my language; it is the foundation of my identity and the heart of my community work.

Achievements:

My First novel Nandhavanam- Won புதுச்சேரிப் படைப்பாளர் இயக்கம், படைப்பாற்றல் திலகம் award.

My Third Novel Meendum Malarvai- Won தமிழ்நாடு முத்தமிழ்ச் சங்கம் கதைக்களப் பொருண்மை award.

Professional & Personal Identity

I am:

  • A mother of a two year old
  • An MSW student specializing in Children, Youth, and Families
  • A former Child Welfare Caseworker
  • A community advocate shaped by social work values
  • A woman who believes in compassion, equity, and collective upliftment

Service is not a part time activity for me it is my career, passion, and purpose. Every role I take on is guided by the belief that communities grow stronger when every voice is heard and every member feels included.

Why I Am Contesting for FeTNA Board of Directors 2026

I am stepping forward because I believe in:

  • Strengthening our cultural identity across generations
  • Creating inclusive spaces for women, youth, and families
  • Expanding community support systems across the Tamil diaspora
  • Uplifting Tamil arts, literature, and wellness traditions
  • Building bridges between local Sangams and the global Tamil community

My Experience as a mother, social worker, writer, and community volunteer gives me a grounded understanding of what our people need and how we can grow together. I Pledge to serve with integrity, empathy, and unwavering commitment.

✦ Unified Leadership For FeTNA 2026 ✦ ✦ தமிழ் • பண்பு • சேவை ✦ ✦ Strong Women Leadership ✦ ✦ Community First ✦ ✦ பேரவைத் தேர்தல் 2026-2028 ✦ ✦ Unified Leadership For FeTNA 2026 ✦ ✦ தமிழ் • பண்பு • சேவை ✦ ✦ Strong Women Leadership ✦ ✦ Community First ✦ ✦ பேரவைத் தேர்தல் 2026-2028 ✦