Leading the OCGA into an exciting new era

Sam Ponsford (2017), OCGA President, and Ashima Mehta (2004), OCGA Vice-President

As proud, passionate members of the Carey community, we are incredibly honoured to have recently been elected to lead the Old Carey Grammarians Association (OCGA).

The direction of the OCGA is looking tremendously positive as we embark on an exciting period of renewal and revitalisation, perfectly timed as Carey approaches its centenary next year. A lot of positive work has been done recently to reform the OCGA and ensure that the association and its activities proudly reflect the modern, progressive values of Carey. At the recent annual general meeting of the OCGA, a robust new constitution and a strong code of conduct, both drafted by highly regarded legal firm Moores, were introduced.

Additionally, a new council was elected that appropriately represents the rich diversity of our 19,000+ OCGA members. The new OCGA council has a female majority and an average age of 34. With a team of passionate, dedicated and talented individuals, we are buoyed with confidence about the future direction of the OCGA.

Under our leadership, the revitalised OCGA is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment for all of our 19,000+ diverse alumni, regardless of their age, cultural background, gender or sexuality. Our association has nearly 100 years of rich history. We will continue to respect the heritage and traditions of the Carey community, whilst also respecting each new Class of Carey that joins the OCGA and the increasing diversity prevalent within our association.

In the coming months, we intend to launch some exciting new subcommittees. If you are interested in joining any of these sub-committees, please email us! These include:

• Young Carey Alumni: social, networking, mentoring and wellbeing events for our younger members

• Careers and Networking: networking, mentoring and professional development events designed to assist Carey alumni advance in their careers

• Community Support: serving and supporting members of our community in need of assistance, providing financial support to deserving charities, and giving Carey alumni opportunities to serve the wider community through volunteering initiatives

• Pride: events and initiatives proudly supporting LGBTIQ+ Carey alumni

• International Students: engaging and reconnecting with former Carey international students.

The OCGA belongs to all 19,000+ Carey alumni. As the OCGA enters this exciting new chapter, we want to hear your ideas for new events and initiatives. Please reach out to us with any ideas, big or small, that you may have: sam.ponsford@ocga.com.au or ashima.mehta@ocga.com.au

The OCGA has a bright future ahead and we hope that you will be a part of it.

Animo et Fide.