The Government of Kerala has decided to constitute Loka Kerala Sabha (LKS) in 2019 as a common platform for Keralites living across the globe; it is envisaged as a platform for the cultural, socio-political and economic integration of these myriad Keralites with the home Kerala.
Since then, the LKS led by the Chief Minister Hon. Pinari Vijayan with over 350 eminent members belonging to various disciplines globally has been discussing several issues affecting the community for achieving positive outcomes. Dr. Chaitanya (Tanya) Unni, a young medical professional and a high achiever from Gold Coast is one such member representing Australia.
Kerala was one of the first States in India to commence proactive measures in containing the impact of the dreaded Corona virus (Covid19). Among the community members affected severely are the international students who have a huge presence in Australia.
Dr Tanya Unni was greatly delighted to be invited as one of the 30 participants in the videoconference with the Kerala Chief Minister Pinari Vijayan and other dignitaries recently and presenting the Australian perspective of key issues affecting the community and Indian students in Australia.
Dr. Tanya Unni included in AUSTRALIA’S Top 100 Young Entrepreneurs List is multifaceted achiever in many fields apart from her medical profession. The young entrepreneur Dr Unni and her husband Dr Ameer Hamza have built one of the largest medical groups in South East Queensland, Amtan Medical. They currently have eight medical centres located in the northern part of the coast.
Adding to their portfolio is specialist centres and a skin laser and cosmetic clinic. Dr Tanya Unni has now developed a cosmetic equipment named ‘NU Sonic’ which has achieved an international patent and is now used world-wide.
Ms. Unni is the granddaughter of the Malayalam novelist O. Chanthu Menon and she has also appeared on screen as a child actor. In addition to her medical career, Ms. Unni is a well-known dancer in Kuchipudi and Kathakali styles too.
Dr. Tanya recently launched EVE, (Empowering Women Entrepreneurship) which is a project of the O Chandu Menon Foundation to assist socially disadvantaged women in Kerala to develop business and entrepreneur skills.
Dr. Tanya Unni is an active member of the Australia India Business Council and as currently the National Chair of the Health Chapter. Dr. Tanya is currently involved in supporting many community initiatives due to Covid19 scenario
The Indian Telegraph spoke to the multitalented Dr. Tanya Unni.
IT: As medical professional, please share your thoughts and support being rendered by Amtan in this hour of Covid 19?
Dr Tanya: In this crucial period, Amtan Medical Centres is associating with the government in Covid – 19 response. Amtan is providing care for public patients, carrying out category 1 elective surgery, and providing wards and theatres to expand ICU capacity. We have also initiated tele health facilities to the community and anyone who needs medical advice, consultation or treatment can contact us. I am also lending my service to some virtual health centres, concentrating especially on geriatric care. The elderly must be given extra care now since they are the most vulnerable and most needy.
IT: How international students are being supported at this hour and ongoing efforts?
Dr. Tanya: The students were sustaining themselves with casual work in Food & Beverage shops, retail outlets, entertainment industry etc. Since that earning is lost, their daily sustenance is a cause for worry. The Government has made it clear that international students will not be eligible for governmental assistance. the government has announced that students who have completed more than 12 months in the country can avail their Super annuation contribution fund. But considering the fact they were doing unskilled labour; I am afraid the amount will be meagre. As an active member of several community groups, I am trying my level best to support the students. The community groups are providing them with food materials and helping them with basic sustenance. I am a member of the global expatriate convention of the Government of Kerala back in India. I could bring to the government’s notice, the problems of international students. The government of Kerala has promised to provide the students with insurance coverage and reduced airfare. Since the lock down is continuing in India, they cannot return now. I hope till the condition normalizes; we will be able to support these students who have come to Australia dreaming of a better future.
IT: Any other suggestions what community should do or Govt should do?
Dr. Tanya: The best help that the community could do at this time is to practice social distancing and refrain from venturing outside. Stay indoors. Make this sacrifice for the larger good. Stay happy.
The government has been doing wonderful work. We have started to flatten the curve and the precautions that we have taken as a nation are now bearing fruit. On the economic side, the government is striving to prevent the onset of a recession or depression with concrete measures. I think the government has been very proactive in dealing with the outbreak.
The Indian Telegraph congratulates Dr. Tanya Unni for her achievements, initiatives and contributions to both India and multicultural Australia
