Trustees Report l. NortheTn Ireland Sikh Association Charity No. 102407 Address: 12116 Simpson's Brae. Derry/Londonderry, BT47 6DL Trustees: . Mr. Amerjit Singh Nagra - President Mr. Kalbinder Kaur Kular - Vice President . Mr. James Jasvir Singh Nagra - Secretary . MT. Manpreet Kaur Sandhu - Vice Secretary Mrs. Satvir Kaur Gill - Treasurer 2. Structure, Governance, and Management Governing Document: The charity operates under its constitution, with decision-making involving trustee votes. The President holds a neutral final vote in case of ties. Trustees are appointed at the AGM, with nominations shared on social media platforn]s like WhatsApp and Facebook. Appointment of Trustees- Trustees are evaluated on their voluntary service, fundraising efforts, and ability to support the charity's objectives. Despite challenges in receni years, including external disruptions, trustees demonstrated resilience, ensuring the charity's growth and stability. The current Trustees were faced with extraordinary Challenges with having the previous year deal with passing away and retirement of Trustees and key people . updating the Banking and other details required by our advisors . This year after appointments and gaining some education and experience the Trustees have recovered the Charity to not Just the level of before the fire causing closure for several year and operating in a vacuum , but enhanced facilities and added value - our Pr¢sident has shown ¢xtraordinary commitment to ensuring that complianc¢ both Health and sat.ety and Financial is required has becn put to the forefront by bringing in professional help.
Transparency Measures: Financial transactions, invoices, and updates are regularly shared via WhatsApp, ensuring members are infom]ed. The leadership emphasized educating members about the charity's activities through meetings and social media posts. Clear records were maintained to explain how private contributions financed critical projects during challenging times. 3. Public Benefit The charity serves the community through initiatives that include: Providing meals (Langar). supporting the elderly, and assisting individuals with disabilities. Hosting cultural and community events that foster integration among Sikhs and non-sikhs. Supporting other charities through donations and fundraising efforts. Offering vital support for events like funerals and weddings. 4. Chairnian's Report The leadership introduced innovative strategies to overcome challenges and deliver results: Cost Savings.. Key m¢mb¢rs voluntcered substantial time to maintain operations and implement cost-saving measures. Infrastructure Improvements: Community donations from people we know, allowed for significant upgrades, including kitchen expansion, improved energy efficiency, and the installation of accessibility features. For example due to the closure of his and family business the President donated many fixtures, fittings(stainlcss steel for kitchen and furniture releasing the Charity funds to spend on a much need Lift at a Cost of 30k for the cldcrly and disabled and raised funds through family connections to expand the kitchen . At this point we did not approach the public as we were closed and Sikhs prefer to be self - reliant and giving to those with l¢ss , a major part of their culture and faith. For example we pref¢rred as individuals to give to the Foyle Hospice despite the Challenges in our organisation. . Debt-Free Operations: Through strategic fundraising and fmancial management, the charity remained fmancially stable and free from debt. Additionally, financial practices were modernized by eliminating cash transactions in favor of bank transfers wherc possible , enhancing transparency and accountability
- Treasurer's Report Financial dccisions are now subject to multi-level approvals, ensuring accountability and robust govemance. Assets and surplus funds have increased, demonstrating the success of current leadership. Professional advice was sought to optimize insurance coverage and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Wc have managed to go into next year debt free and a positive cash flow - despite not getting funds from public or grants due to closure from 21 to 23124 - only reopening in April 24 . Leadership has effectively balanced strategic vision with shared responsibility, ensuring et"ficient management of resources.
- Outstanding Achievements The President, Mr. Ameriit Singh Nagra, was honored with awards for his contributions to both Sikh and non-sikh communities, including Derry Journal's "Volunteer of the Year" and "Community Champion" recognitions. Using the Covid period and his extended families rcsources to the benefit of the Charity donating all expenses through our treasurer back to the Charity - l¢ading by examplc - encouraging all memkrs to do th¢ same! Members have consistently provided positive feedback about the charity's progress and leadership, highlighting the dedication and vision of the trustees. A strong governance fram¢work has b¢en established to ensure sustained progress.
- Future Goals Addressing key infrastructure needs. including roof repairs and Tepainting the building. Continuing essential services such as meal provision, cultural events, and support for the elderly. Educating and mentoring future trustees to maintain effective governance and compliance. Expanding community engagement efforts to build stronger partnerships with other organizations and groups. Summary
The Northern Ireland Sikh Association has successfully ovcrcome significant challenges through strong leadership and collective effort. Key accomplishments include: Revitalizing the charity after a challenging period. Strengthening financial stability and enhancing transparency. Expanding community services and impact through meal provision, cultural events, and support for other charities. Future plans focus on infrastructure improvements, sustaining core activities, and fostering long-temi growth through effective governance and community collaboration.