Celebrating Excellence: Community Heroes Awards 2026

30 August 2026 | Perth, Western Australia

The inauguration of the Sanjos Cultural Centre on 30 August 2026 was marked by a memorable celebration of service, leadership, and community spirit as outstanding individuals were recognised through the Sanjos Cultural Centre Community Hero Awards and Community Recognition Award 2026.

The awards were presented by Hon. Trish Cook MP, who joined community leaders, families, and guests in honouring recipients whose dedication has made a lasting impact across healthcare, education, engineering, business, and community development.

Honouring Outstanding Community Leaders

Dr Kuruvilla Mathew OAM

Engineer and Retired Senior Lecturer in Environmental Engineering at Murdoch University, Dr Kuruvilla Mathew OAM was recognised for a lifetime of service and more than three decades of leadership. His contributions to higher education, engineering, environmental sustainability, and community engagement have left an enduring legacy.

Mrs Minimole George

A Registered Nurse specialising in Nephrology and Dialysis at Fiona Stanley Hospital, Mrs Minimole George received the Community Recognition Award in recognition of two decades of outstanding service to healthcare, church, and community.

Mrs Blossom Joseph

Registered Nurse at Fremantle Hospital specialising in Neurology, Stroke, and General Medicine, Mrs Blossom Joseph was honoured for over twenty years of dedicated service to healthcare, church, and community welfare.

Mr John Muttathil

A respected Secondary Teacher with the Department of Education WA, Mr John Muttathil was recognised for more than three decades of exceptional contributions to education, leadership, community engagement, and humanitarian causes.

Dr John Joseph

Educator, Geophysicist, and Physics Teacher at Holy Cross College within Catholic Education Western Australia, Dr John Joseph was celebrated for over two decades of commitment to education, church, community service, and academic excellence.

Mr Joseph Cheedhaparambil Joseph

Managing Director of the Ceejay Group of Companies, entrepreneur, and manufacturing leader, Mr Joseph Cheedhaparambil Joseph was honoured for more than three decades of service to business, manufacturing, employment generation, and community development.

Mrs Valsa Joseph Chacko

A distinguished Registered Nurse and healthcare leader, Mrs Valsa Joseph Chacko received recognition for over two decades of outstanding contributions to healthcare, church initiatives, and community support.

A Celebration of Service and Community Spirit

The Community Hero Awards were a highlight of the Sanjos Cultural Centre inauguration, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to recognising individuals whose selfless service and leadership continue to strengthen and inspire the community.

Presenting the awards, Hon. Trish Cook MP congratulated the recipients and acknowledged their remarkable achievements, dedication, and commitment to uplifting others. The ceremony showcased the profound impact that education, healthcare, business leadership, and community service have in shaping a stronger and more connected society.

The inauguration of the Sanjos Cultural Centre and the presentation of these prestigious awards marked a significant milestone, celebrating both the opening of a new cultural hub and the extraordinary individuals whose contributions continue to enrich the lives of countless people across Western Australia.