Mission Statement '09
In present times of political turmoil, the true meaning of the word ‘Samaggi' has never been more vigorously sought after. The term is heard mentioned countlessly by political leaders and the media, all for very different reasons in response to the present crisis. Yet this word has been our society’s name and emblem for 109 years, and we are handed over the torch to seek its true essence up to this day. One of the first challenges for me in working for Samaggi Samagom lies in this search for the meaning of this potent word and its connection with our vision. 'Samaggi', I believe, means more than just harmony and friendship, or merely being 'on the same side' as each other. It has a profound 'sense of community'. By being 'Samaggi', people come together to give and share, not just to purchase and participate. Though there are no sides to take in 'Samaggi', there is a rich diversity. It is in this 'sense of community' that perhaps we could find our true essence and foundation, envisioned by our royal founder King Rama VI.
The fact that we are such an old organisation has just as many difficulties as its merits. Many demands and expectations of the last century no longer apply. Thais in the UK now have no need for an organised meeting place as the number of Thai students nowadays, combined with the ease of commutation and communication, allow many of us not to ever feel homesick. This changing situation once gave rise to serious thoughts of discontinuing Samaggi Samagom.
Many of us, however, perceive more of Samaggi Samagom’s potential. The needs of the times may change, but the spirit of friendship and community knows no bounds. Despite the readily available communities of Thai students in the UK, there has been little collaboration between them as most are naturally bound within their own institution and social circles. This is where Samaggi Samagom can make a difference. We can forge and strengthen links to allow like-minded people to meet without the limitations of institutions, and to allow not-so-like-minded people to share their diversity and inspire each other. The fact that we are among the people with highest privileges in Thailand, with more opportunities than most of our compatriots, means that we all have a certain responsibility to put such privileges to good use. This can happen through Samaggi Samagom, through its platform where everyone is able to meet and share experiences in the context of learning and openness. There is an immense possibility for us to widen our social circles, to broaden our views, and to give back to our country.
Thus, my vision is to build a modern Samaggi Samagom that answers to the needs of the present times while preserving its original intentions. History has shown that many members become leaders of our country, so the future of our country will partly be determined by the values that we cultivate among us. I would like to see Samaggi as a hub for all Thai students in the UK and people who share our objectives, a hub which values 'Kwam Samaggi' without the false boundaries of social circles or institutions, a hub which encourages openness, curiosity, learning, and many other values which will benefit the society at large. I hope that, together, we can make Samaggi Samagom once again a fertile ground for friendships, which are not based on superficial exchanges of interests, but valuable experiences shared.
by Prach Boondiskulchok, President 2009