Tani Saha awarded Community Citizen of the Year by the City of Canning

A teacher dedicated to inspiring people to appreciate and get involved in Indian culture has been named the City of Canning’s community citizen of the year.

Tani Saha is an artist and cultural ambassador who is said to have made an impression on the community’s “cultural landscape”.

She was among several locals recognised on Australia Day at the City of Canning’s awards ceremony.

Joyleen Shirley Koolmatrie, who runs workshops for Indigenous people affected by removal, grief and trauma, was named senior community citizen of the year in recognition of her work advocating for the needs of First Nations people.

Surbhi Sharma was recognised as the young community citizen of the year for her work in aged care centres and institutions supporting children.

Migrant and multicultural charity Ubuntu Australia received the active citizenship award for the various free programs and activities it leads.

Canning Mayor Patrick Hall said the people recognised had made “outstanding” contributions to the Canning district.

“The community citizen of the year awards allow us to reflect, respect and celebrate those people that have made a significant contribution to the well-being and advancement of our community,” he said.

“With 24 nominees this year, I would like to congratulate all the nominees and the winners for each of the categories. Your contribution to our community is outstanding and we greatly appreciate all of the work that you do.”