A tireless community advocate dedicated to supporting people in need in Parramatta and Western Sydney has been recognised as Parramatta’s 2026 Citizen of the Year.
Moses Vedamuthu, Founder and President of Support Organisation for Homeless and Asylum Seekers(SOHAS Charity), was awarded at the annual Citizen of the Year awards ceremony tonight for his volunteer work supporting homeless people, asylum seekers, international students, migrants and elders across Western Sydney.
Mr Vedamuthu said being named Citizen of the Year was an extraordinary honour that motivates him to keep doing better and inspire others to follow suit.
“This is an honour that fills me with a sense of pride and purpose,” Mr Vedamuthu said.
“I believe being a good citizen means taking responsibility for the wellbeing of my community and I have learned that my small deeds make big differences to people in need.
“The Citizen of the Year Award is significant to me because it represents the values that guide my involvement and contributions to the community – service, responsibility and a genuine commitment to make a positive difference.”
Mr Vedamuthu was honoured during an Australia Day eve ceremony held at Parramatta Town Hall alongside fellow volunteers Isabelle Marie Nilon, who was named Young Citizen of the Year, Jenni Corsaro who was awarded Senior Citizen of the Year, and Westmead Private Hospital Volunteers took out the Community Group Award.
Isabelle Nilon, volunteer from North Rocks Carlingford Little Athletics, said she hopes the award inspires local young athletes to strive for what they want to achieve and encourages girls to be future volunteers too.
“This award sets an example for the North Rocks Carlingford Little Athletics girls group I coach and mentor,” Ms Nilon said.
“This recognition should inspire older athletes in my club to consider volunteering, coaching and Committee roles, as I have done and to pass on their knowledge and experience to make a meaningful contribution to the next generation of Little Athletes.”
Jenni Corsaro (pictured, above), Senior Citizen of the Year said she choose to work with senior citizens in the Parramatta area because it personally gives her so much pleasure.
“I love seeing senior citizens blossom and make new friends while having a good time,” Ms Corsaro said.
“I do this for me, as much as I do this for them, because I too am a senior and it keeps a smile on my face.”
“This award means so much to me because it confirms I am doing something positive to improve the lives of local senior citizens, if only in a small way.”
The Westmead Private Hospital Volunteers (main image) who took out the Community Group of the Year Award said winning this award is incredibly meaningful for their hospital volunteer group.
“This reflects the countless hours our volunteers give each week to support patients, families and hospital staff, often during difficult and emotional times.”
City of Parramatta Lord Mayor, Martin Zaiter said the awards recognise the individuals and groups who exemplify everyday service, leadership and community spirit.Â
“The Citizen of the Year Awards recognise people who consistently dedicate their time, energy and compassion to make Parramatta a better place,” Lord Mayor Zaiter said.
“This year’s recipients show that leadership comes in many forms and that small acts of service can have a powerful impact on our community.
“Congratulations to all the winners. Thank you for inspiring us all and strengthening our community. You make us proud.”
The 2026 City of Parramatta Australia Day Citizen of the Year Award recipients are:
Citizen of the Year
Moses Vedamuthu
Founder and President of SOHAS Charity, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting people facing hardship, including the homeless, asylum seekers, international students, migrants and elders. Established in 2020, SOHAS provides essential food, groceries and support to vulnerable families in Western Sydney, continuing to address community needs with compassion and practical assistance.
Young Citizen of the Year
Isabelle Marie Nilon
Coach and Mentor at North Rocks Carlingford Little Athletics, Isabelle coaches and mentors young athletes, encouraging them to give back, join local community groups and develop leadership through sport.
Senior Citizen of the Year
Jenni Corsaro
Community volunteer and senior advocate, Jenni has dedicated herself to supporting senior citizens in Parramatta, organising social outings, gardening activities and fundraising events that bring people together and foster connection across generations.
Community Group of the Year
Westmead Private Hospital Volunteers
The Westmead Private Hospital Volunteer team supports patients, families and staff across multiple areas of the hospital, offering patient comfort, companionship and practical help. Volunteers greet visitors, assist with navigation, support patient wellbeing and bring joy and connection to people during challenging times.
