About us
Our story
From a handful of families who arrived from Uganda to a community of well over a thousand households across the UK.
Where it began
SLP Samaj (UK) traces its roots to the mid-1970s. Many of our families had built full lives in Uganda, where a strong and active Samaj flourished, until the expulsion of 1972 forced them to start again. Arriving in Britain, they looked for one another, and the Samaj was the natural way to stay together.
By 1981 the first members' directory had been printed. Over the next thirty years activities grew steadily, bringing culture and community spirit to members wherever they had settled.
Growing with each generation
The decades since have brought enormous change: new generations born and raised here, new ideas, a prospering community and a technological revolution in how we keep in touch.
Since the turn of the millennium, a new wave of young, educated Saurashtra Leuva Patels has arrived from Gujarat. As word of the Samaj spread, membership rose sharply, and that fresh energy has given the Samaj a real boost. Navratri nights, Diwali gatherings and family days have flourished again, strengthening our sense of belonging.
Still being written
That is our story so far. The next chapter belongs to every member who joins, volunteers, dances at Navratri or brings a friend to Diwali.
What we stand for
Our people
Keeping families connected across generations and across the country.
Our heritage
Celebrating Navratri, Diwali and the culture of Saurashtra in our UK home.
Our future
Empowering the next generation through SLP Next Gen, sport and professional networks.
Together
Supporting one another in celebration and in times of need.