Our History

Preserving Heritage, Building Community Since 1976

For nearly five decades, the Sri Lanka Canada Association of Ottawa (SLCAO) has served as a cornerstone of the Sri Lankan Canadian community in the National Capital Region.

Established in 1976, SLCAO was founded with a vision of bringing together Sri Lankan families and individuals living in Ottawa while preserving the rich cultural heritage, traditions, and values of Sri Lanka.

Over the years, the association has grown into a vibrant community organization that promotes cultural understanding, social engagement, volunteerism, and community support.

Through cultural celebrations, educational initiatives, sporting events, family gatherings, and charitable activities, SLCAO has created lasting connections among generations of Sri Lankan Canadians and friends of Sri Lanka.

Today, SLCAO continues to foster a welcoming environment where members can celebrate their heritage, strengthen community bonds, and contribute positively to Canada's multicultural society.

Crossed flags of Sri Lanka and Canada with the Sri Lankan flag on the left featuring a gold lion holding a sword on a maroon background with yellow border, and the Canadian flag on the right with a red maple leaf in the center on a white background with red borders.
  • Group of people celebrating Sri Lanka Canada's 40th anniversary and new year in a hall with red curtains, floral decorations, and a chandelier. Everyone is dressed in formal and traditional attire.

  • Group of women dressed in colorful costumes performing a traditional dance on stage, with decorative flowers and flags in the background.

  • A young woman performing a traditional Indian dance on stage, dressed in a red and gold sari with jewelry and makeup, against a black background.

  • A young boy in traditional Indian attire seated on a stage with two Indian drums called tablas in front of him. He is performing with microphones positioned nearby, against a dark background.

  • Group of children singing on stage during a Christmas party event, some wearing Santa hats and festive orange dresses.

  • A group of twelve men standing on a grassy field, wearing medals and sports attire, posing for a group photo with trees and parked cars in the background during sunset.

  • People standing on a stage during a Christmas celebration event at SLCAC, with a banner that reads "Welcome to SLCAC Annual Christmas Celebration," decorated with large snowflakes, lace curtains, and a Christmas gift bag on the side.