Manipuri Association of Canada

MAC was founded to assist people from Manipur, India, living in Canada. The association helps community members pursue higher education, immigration processes, and cultural activities, while also providing support during times of need.^[4]

Immigration and Study Guidance (February 2025)

On February 13, 2025, MAC urged individuals interested in studying or immigrating to Canada to contact the association before consulting other agencies or spending large sums of money. The association stated that it provides necessary assistance free of charge.^[4]

According to MAC, some students reported that certain immigration consultancy services charged excessive fees for guidance. While recognizing consultancy firms for their support, MAC discouraged irrelevant or high fees. The association clarified that fees required by the Canadian Immigration Authority or for legitimate consultancy services are acceptable, but exorbitant charges for guidance are inappropriate. MAC emphasized that such practices add financial strain on students and newcomers, and urged parents and immigrants to take the matter seriously.^[4]

6th Biennial Convention (August 2022)

MAC held its 6th Biennial Convention online on August 27, 2022. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and Works Minister Govindas Konthoujam attended the event.^[5][6]

MAC President Dr. Prithiviraj Kangjam (alias Yaiphaba) stated that the association has been dedicated to assisting "Kangleichas" with education, immigration, and community support. The Chief Minister and Works Minister encouraged the Meitei diaspora to contribute to the development of Manipur.^[5][6]

A cultural program featured artists from Manipur, including Pusparani, Chitra, Pinky, Arbin, Kennedy, and the Nokphade team (Rohini Kumar & team). Children from across Canada also participated in a talent show.^[5][6]

The convention elected the new executive team for 2022–2024:

• President: Dr. Prithiviraj Kangjam (Vancouver)
• Vice President: Russiachand Heikham (Montreal)
• Secretary: Tolen Moirangthem (Saskatoon)
• Assistant Secretary cum Treasurer: Dayananda Paonam (Toronto)
• Executive Members: Milanda Roy (Manitoba), Daisy (Toronto)^[5][6]

An advisory committee was also formed, consisting of Dr. Joy Laishram, Joy Chabungbam, Sujata Chabungbam, Promud Hamom, Ananta Singha, Sarda Heigrujam, Ranibala Kshetrimayum, and Shanta Konthoujam, to guide the executive team.^[5][6]

2nd Biennial Convention (June 2013)

The Second Biennial Convention was held from June 29–30, 2013, in Ontario. The event included three parts: a reception party at Dr. Raj's residence, the main convention at the Parkway Sheraton Convention Centre, Richmond Hill, and a closing party at Dr. Joy Laishram's residence.^[7]

During the business session, MAC elected:

• Chairman, Board of Directors: Dr. Joy Laishram
• President, Executive Committee: Dr. Amuchou Soraisham
• Secretary: Promud Hamom
• Treasurer: Satya Nongthombam^[7]

The convention approved several initiatives, including a mandatory Student Volunteering Program for Grades 11–12 in Manipur, a treasury of Manipuri ethnic exhibits and costumes, and the MAC Academic Awards for Canadian Manipuri students (Grade 10 competition and awards of appreciation for all grades).^[7]

The cultural program included:

• Shayon, a fusion Manipuri women's fashion show by designer Bidyutparna Lourembam (Montreal)
• Meitei martial arts performance by Kiran Aheibam (Calgary)
• Songs by guest artist Vandana Biswas
• Leima Jagoi performed by seven Manipuri women from Toronto^[7]

The valedictory function involved the exchange of MAC souvenirs. The closing party included swimming, soccer, BBQ, and Thabal Chongba, a traditional Manipuri dance. The next convention was announced to be in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, in 2015.^[7]

On February 16, 2013, the Manipuri Association of Canada (MAC) established the Dr. Ibeyaima Innovative Award to honor Manipuri individuals excelling in agriculture, science and technology, entrepreneurship, and craftsmanship. The award, featuring a cash prize of Rs 20,000, is presented annually at the Manipur Science and Technology Council (MASTEC) Science Meet, with the prize scheduled to increase by Rs 2,000 every two years. A memorandum of understanding between MAC and MASTEC formalized the award, and the signing ceremony included presentations on MAC's activities and the Boston-based Manipur International Centre.^[8][9][10]

In January 2024, the Manipuri Association of Canada initiated a fundraising campaign in Canada, raising ₹60,000 (US$710) to assist victims of ethnic violence in Manipur, India.^[11]