In the realm of academia, luminaries often emerge to inspire and uplift
those around them. Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) academic Dr
Saraswathy Thurairaj, is one such beacon of motivation. Dr Saraswathy is
currently the UTAR Sungai Long Toastmasters Club Advisor and a chartered
member of Toastmasters International. She has been tirelessly empowering
students and staff through her unwavering commitment to Toastmasters
International.
On 1 August 2023, Dr Saraswathy achieved a remarkable feat by receiving the
Toastmasters International award for chartering a ground-breaking community
club, the Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club from the Club Growth Director,
District 102, Distinguished Toastmaster Mr Robert Ram, at the Open
University, Kelana Jaya.
Dr Saraswathy received her awards from Toastmasters International
The mission of the Share & Inspire Toastmasters club goes beyond
conventional Toastmasters clubs. It focuses on nurturing personal growth
through positive communication, fostering robust speaking skills, igniting
leadership capabilities, enhancing confidence, and making a significant
impact on the community. The club’s uniqueness lies in its diverse
membership, including academics from the Sungai Long Campus and Kampar
Campus as well as professionals from other organisations. It even boasts of
members from the United Arab Emirates, adding to its global diversity.
Dr Saraswathy leads the club as its founder and current President while Ms
Bharathi Mutty from the Faculty of Arts and Social Science is the
Vice-President of Education. Mr Tai Liang Kwang from FCI is the
Vice-President of Public Relations, Ms Thinusha Selvaraj from FCI is the
Secretary, and Ms Er Pek Hoon from the Faculty of Accountancy and Management
is the Sergeant at Arms. Other UTAR
academics are Ms Uma Eswari Punchanathan from the Faculty of Business and
Finance and Ms N. S. Parveenpal Kaur from the Centre for Foundation Studies
(Sungai Long Campus).
Mr Tai (left photo) and Ms Er (right photo) receiving their charted
membership certificates from Toastmasters International
The strength of the Share and Inspire Club lies in its diverse professional
backgrounds, featuring medical doctors, CEO of an international company,
lawyers, teachers, lecturers, public relations managers, human resource
managers, international school head of department, international
consultants, Public Mutual training managers, piano music teachers, and many
more. Even a cancer survivor, Madam Ramuna, who is a school teacher from a
Chinese school in Kuala Lumpur, joined the club after being inspired by Dr
Saraswathy. This rich blend of professionals contributes to the dynamism of
the club, fostering an environment where skills are honed, and experiences
are shared.
Ms Tinusha said, “Toastmasters gives me the opportunity to express myself,
share thoughts and experiences, and make mistakes without fear of judgment.
It allows me to be myself. Toastmasters is a platform to enhance my
communication skills in both daily interactions and the professional realm.”
Ms Er shared, “I joined the Share and Inspire Club to prepare for my future
PhD viva, aiming to present my research more emphatically to the examining
panel. Dr Saraswathy helped me understand that Toastmasters is the ideal
platform to refine my persuasive speaking skills. I’ve noticed significant
improvements since joining.”
Mr Tai expressed, “Initially I was invited by Dr Saraswathy to join a newly
established Toastmasters club, I realised its potential to assist others in
improving their confidence in public speaking. I decided to stay, utilising
this opportunity to enhance my own speaking skills for future work while
understanding human social dynamics.”
Ms Parveenpal said, “I initially
didn’t consider Toastmasters as my platform of choice. I postponed my
participation for quite some time until a family member encouraged me to
join. Attending as a guest helped me realise the value of interaction,
sharing experiences, and creating room for personal development, which
turned out to be a rewarding experience. Consequently, I decided to further
engage with Dr Saraswathy and Alfred on my Toastmasters journey. It truly
revolves around self-development.”
Ms Bharathi said, “Toastmasters International boosted my confidence in
speaking in front of a group of audience.”
Dr Fawzia O Essa, a CEO from the United Arab Emirates highlighted,
“Toastmasters is an excellent platform to address weaknesses and develop
personal and leadership skills. Dr Saraswathy has transformed this platform
into a nurturing environment where growth and self-improvement thrive.”
Madam Ramuna Chellapa mentioned, “Share and Inspire Toastmasters Club
tremendously enhanced my listening skills, aiding my understanding of
others’ attitudes and motivations, fostering respect for different
viewpoints. It’s a valuable platform to boost my communication skills with
confidence.”
Additionally, an international school, Head of Department and English
teacher from Johor, Puan Azalea Z Azman, added, “In my experience with Share
& Inspire, I’ve noticed a strong emphasis on time management. Despite its
challenges, this focus has significantly contributed to my growth as a
speaker. The members are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment,
and their enthusiasm and knowledge serve as pillars for us new members.”
Members from Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club together with the Club Growth
Director, District 102, Distinguished Toastmaster Mr Robert Ram
FAM students Bryan Thong Meng Seng and Teo Yi Qi represented UTAR Sungai
Long Toastmasters Club in the Toastmasters “Humourous Speech and Table
Topics 2023-2024” contest (Area E2) at the Open University Malaysia. Despite
being their first attempt at this contest, Bryan Thong secured second place.
Dr Saraswathy proudly reminisced, “I was the proudest lecturer, witnessing
my student shine on the stage alongside seasoned Toastmasters speakers.” She
accompanied him to various Area-level contests, helping him craft his
speeches and master the art of delivering a winning presentation.
Bryan Thong and Teo
Dr Saraswathy herself gained immense accolades. At the District 102 Annual
Conference 2023 held at the Bangi Resort Hotel from 5 to 7 May 2023, she was
honoured with the Triple Crown Achievers Award. The District 102 Annual
Conference 2023 was a fabulous event, etching cherished memories with
incredible, inspiring Toastmasters speakers and participants.
Dr Saraswathy received her Triple Crown Achievers Award at the District 102
Annual Conference 2023
Furthermore, she serves as the Area Director for six other clubs, namely the
OUM Toastmasters Club (Kelana Jaya), Super Speakers Toastmaster Club
(Puchong), Energy Workforce Toastmasters Club (Setapak), Negeri Sembilan
Ceylonese Toastmaster Club (Seremban) and Personal Development Toastmaster
Club (Negeri Sembilan). Her
leadership inspires all these clubs and their members to shine as public
speakers and leaders, empowering many more individuals in the process.
Toastmasters International Area E4 Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contests
Winners for term 2023-2024
Toastmasters International Area E4 Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contests
for term 2023-2024
Dr Saraswathy extends a warm invitation to UTAR staff members, alumni and
students to begin their journey of personal growth and empowerment by
joining the Share and Inspire Toastmasters Club (for UTAR staff members) and
the UTAR Sungai Long Toastmasters Club (for students).
For more information, email tsaraswathy@utar.edu.my or call
0126235697 to learn more about becoming a part of Toastmasters
International. Your journey of empowerment and inspiration awaits.
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