Austin Arrey

President

2026 New Year speech

MECA End-of-Year 2025 and Beginning-of-Year 2026 Presidential Address

Fellow members of the Manyu Element Cultural Association (MECA), distinguished elders, executive members, and members,

As we come to the close of 2025 and prepare to step confidently into 2026, I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the executive and in my capacity as President, to reflect on our journey, celebrate our achievements, acknowledge areas for improvement, and share our expectations and plans for the year ahead.

The year 2025 has been a remarkable and successful year for MECA. Together, we have made significant progress that deserves recognition and appreciation.

First, we are proud to report a steady increase in registered membership, as well as a notable improvement in attendance at our monthly meetings. This growth demonstrates renewed interest, commitment, and belief in the mission and values of MECA.

Second, we have witnessed strong collaboration among members, resulting in improved teamwork, unity, and a stronger sense of belonging within the association. This spirit of cooperation has strengthened our foundation and positioned us for continued success.

One of the highlights of 2025 was the successful fundraising party held on May 17, 2025. This event was a major achievement for MECA. It recorded exceptional member participation, strong community support, and stands as one of the most successful fundraising events in our community. The success of this event clearly demonstrated what we can accomplish when we work together with a shared vision.

Additionally, we commend members for their commitment to paying dues and financial contributions. Your cooperation and responsibility in this regard significantly improved the financial stability of the association.

I would also like to express sincere appreciation to the outgoing executive for their dedication, service, and hard work. At the same time, we celebrate the successful and transparent election of a new executive, which reflects our democratic values and commitment to continuity and accountability.

While we celebrate our achievements, it is also important to reflect honestly on areas that require improvement so that we can grow stronger as an association.

Members are encouraged to treat one another with respect at all times. Disrespectful behavior, personal attacks, or misunderstandings undermine our unity and do not align with the values of MECA.

Meetings should remain focused on association matters, and members are strongly encouraged to avoid discussing personal issues during sessions. Our meeting time is valuable and should be used productively for the benefit of the entire association.

We have also observed the formation of small, chaotic discussion groups during meetings, as well as dysfunctional attitudes from a few members. Such behavior disrupts meetings and weakens our collective effectiveness. We must all commit to discipline, order, and constructive engagement.

Furthermore, members are reminded of their responsibility to pay financial contributions on time. This will help prevent unnecessary follow-ups and ensure that the Financial Secretary can perform their duties efficiently without having to pursue members repeatedly.

Expectations and Priorities for 2026

As we move into 2026, we do so with renewed determination and clear expectations.

The Financial Secretary will regularly post and update members’ financial records to clearly inform everyone of their financial standing and obligations ahead of 2026 re-registration.
All members, including those they have registered under Retour au Pays (RPN), are expected to pay $30 per person on or before January 31, 2026.
The Executive Committee will actively work with community stakeholders and partners to explore opportunities that will improve and increase MECA’s financial capacity. Members’ ideas and suggestions on how best to collaborate with these stakeholders will be welcomed and encouraged.
Members are encouraged to attend meetings on time, participate actively, and be prepared to host meetings.
Plans will be initiated to organize a MECA Christmas Party in 2026, aimed at strengthening unity, celebrating our culture, and fostering fellowship among members and the wider community.

Proposed Action Plan

To support our goals, the following action plan will guide our activities:

1. Membership & Discipline
Reinforce a code of conduct for meetings.
Promote respectful communication and conflict resolution.
Encourage punctuality and active participation.
2. Finance & Accountability
Monthly publication of financial records by the Financial Secretary.
Clear deadlines and reminders for dues and contributions.
3. Partnerships & Fundraising
Identify and engage community stakeholders and partners.
Organize at least one major fundraising event in 2027 or 2028.
Encourage member-led fundraising ideas and initiatives.
4. Communication & Engagement
Improve internal communication through regular updates.
Encourage feedback and suggestions from members.
Strengthen teamwork through joint activities and committees.
5. Cultural & Social Activities
Plan and host the 2026 MECA Christmas Party.
Promote cultural values and traditions through events and meetings.

In closing, I want to thank every member for their commitment, sacrifices, and belief in MECA. Our progress in 2025 proves that unity, respect, and collaboration are the keys to success. Let us carry this spirit into 2026 with discipline, accountability, and a shared vision for a stronger and more prosperous Manyu Element Cultural Association.

Together, we can achieve even greater success.

Thank you, and I wish you all a prosperous and successful 2026.

Nfor A. Arrey