2025
Committee
TSHR
Siva Velappan
President, Hampton Roads Tamil Sangam (TSHR)
Governor-Appointed Member, Virginia Asian Advisory Board
Technology Innovator | Community Leader | Cultural Advocate
Siva Velappan serves as the President of the Hampton Roads Tamil Sangam (TSHR), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Tamil language, culture, and heritage across the Hampton Roads region. Under his leadership, the Sangam has expanded its cultural impact through major community events such as Pongal, Tamil New Year, Diwali, and Tamil School programs, engaging hundreds of families and strengthening cultural continuity.
With over 20 years of experience as a technology leader and community advocate, Siva brings organizational excellence, innovation, and cultural passion to every initiative. He is deeply committed to empowering the next generation through educational programs, youth leadership development, and volunteer-driven community service that preserve Tamil heritage while fostering unity across diverse communities.
Siva was recently appointed by the Governor of Virginia to serve on the Virginia Asian Advisory Board, where he contributes to advancing representation, collaboration, and policy insights that support Asian American communities across the Commonwealth.
Through his vision and service, Siva continues to build bridges between culture, technology, and civic leadership—ensuring that Tamil identity thrives within the vibrant multicultural fabric of Hampton Roads.
Shaker A. Rajasekar
Vice President
Shaker A. Rajasekar serves as the Vice President of the Hampton Roads Tamil Sangam
(TSHR), bringing nearly a decade of dedicated leadership to the organization’s executive team.
Throughout his tenure, he has remained an avid guardian of Tamil culture, actively contributing to the Sangam’s growth and development while championing initiatives that protect and preserve Tamil heritage across both India and the United States.
With a distinguished career as a pioneer in the media field since the 1980s, Shaker holds a lifelong vision of connecting global continents through the art of filmmaking and training and equipping the next generation of filmmakers.
Beyond the entertainment industry, Shaker is a dedicated academic and the founder of the American Film Academy. As a Professor of Film and Media with experience at institutions like Regent University, he is committed to equipping young students across the globe with the skills to reach the highest international standards of quality. Under his mentorship, many of his students have gone on to achieve critical acclaim and win awards at various prestigious film festivals. Through his unique blend of artistic vision and civic service, Shaker continues to bridge the gap between education, cinema, and cultural identity—empowering the next generation of storytellers while ensuring the vibrant traditions of the Tamil community thrive in Hampton Roads.
Anitha Arumugam
Board of Director
Anitha Arumugam serves on the Board of Directors for the Hampton Roads Tamil Sangam (TSHR). An engineering graduate and IT professional, she brings strong organizational skills, creativity, and a deep passion for cultural service to the Sangam. Since joining the community in 2018, Anitha has been actively involved in several aspects of Sangam operations—from coordinating cultural activities and event logistics to contributing to food planning and festival execution.
Her commitment extends beyond event support; Anitha is dedicated to creating engaging spaces where families can celebrate Tamil traditions and where children can stay connected to their roots. She strongly believes in nurturing the next generation’s appreciation for Tamil language, arts, and values. Through her continued volunteer efforts and collaborative spirit, Anitha strives to help TSHR grow as a vibrant, welcoming, and culturally enriching community for all.