UTAR staff make their mark at Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club's inaugural anniversary and installation

Dr Saraswathy the Past Chartered President and Founder of Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club cutting the 1^st Anniversary Cake of the Club with other members

The Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club celebrated its 1st-year anniversary and the installation of its new executive committee (EXCO) on 10 August 2024 at Palazzo Mall. The event gathered 34 Toastmasters and guests for an evening of camaraderie and celebration.

The evening began with the installation of the club’s new EXCO, setting the tone for a night of games, lucky draws, and experience-sharing sessions that highlighted the personal and professional growth of its members over the past year. The event was not only a celebration of achievements but also a testament to the strong bonds formed within the club. Members reflected on their journeys, shared their experiences, and enjoyed the delicious food that added an extra layer of joy to the festivities.

Dr Saraswathy Thurairaj, an academic from UTAR Faculty of Creative Industries (FCI) and a prominent Toastmasters International member has been instrumental in establishing the Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club. Her commitment to the club has been unwavering since its inception. Other notable UTAR lecturers who contributed to the club include Ms Winnie Err Pek Hoon from the Faculty of Accountancy and Management; Mr Tai Liang Kwang and Ms Thinusha Selvaraj from FCI; Ms Barathi Mutty from the Faculty of Social Science, Ms Uma Eswari Punchanathan from the Faculty of Business and Finance, and Ms Parveenpaal Kau from the Centre for Foundation Studies.

Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club members with all the esteem leaders and other Toastmasters members

Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club members with some of UTAR Sungai Long Toastmasters   members

Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club’s Exco Members 2024-2025

On 1 August 2023, the club was officially chartered, a milestone recognised by Toastmasters International. The award for this achievement was presented by Distinguished Toastmaster Mr Robert Ram, Club Growth Director of District 102, at the Open University in Kelana Jaya. In its first year, the club also achieved President’s Distinguished Club status, a testament to its strong foundation and the commitment of its members.

From its inception, the Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club rapidly established itself as a distinctive platform for personal growth, leadership development, and community engagement. The club’s mission goes beyond that of traditional Toastmasters clubs, emphasising the cultivation of positive communication, the development of strong speaking skills, the ignition of leadership potential, and the enhancement of confidence.o:p>

The diverse membership of the Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club includes academics from UTAR Sungai Long and Kampar Campuses, professionals from various esteemed organisations, and even members from the United Arab Emirates. This rich blend of professionals contributes to the club’s dynamism, fostering an environment where skills are honed, and experiences are shared.

Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club members, along with esteemed leaders and other Toastmasters members

Ms Winnie Er (middle) with UTAR student Koh Yong Xuan and another Toastmasters member

Several UTAR lecturers have played pivotal roles in the success of the Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club. Dr Saraswathy not only founded the club and served as its chartered president but also received her Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award on 10 August 2024, marking her as a leading figure in the Toastmasters community. Her leadership has been instrumental in the club’s achievements and growth.

Ms Bharathi Mutty (FAS), as the past Vice-President of Education, significantly contributed to the educational development of the club’s members, helping them enhance their communication and leadership skills. Mr Tai Liang Kwang (FCI), the past and current Vice-President of Public Relations, has been crucial in promoting the club and its activities, ensuring its impact within and beyond the Toastmasters community.

Ms Thinusha Selvaraj (FCI), the past Secretary, provided strong organisational support, helping the club run smoothly and efficiently. Ms Winnie Er Pek Hoon (FAM), the past Sergeant at Arms, ensured that meetings and events were conducted in an orderly and professional manner, contributing to the club’s overall success. Ms Uma Eswari Punchanathan (FBF) and Ms Parveenpal Kaur Najar Singh (CFS) have been valuable members, contributing their expertise and support to various club initiatives and activities.

These lecturers, along with other members, have greatly benefited from their participation in Toastmasters, finding it a valuable platform for personal and professional development.

Mr Tai taking an oath as the Vice President of Public Relations

Dr Saraswathy taking an oath as the Vice President of Education

The Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club’s 1st-year anniversary celebration was a resounding success, thanks to the extraordinary efforts and dedication of its members. With the club’s achievements in its first year, there is great confidence that it will continue to thrive and inspire its members to reach new heights in their Toastmasters journey.

Congratulations to all involved, especially the Organising Chair, Dr Sam, and the current Club President, DTM Soosai. As the club moves forward, it is poised for continued success, with a strong foundation and a committed leadership team ready to guide it into the future.
To all committee members, guests, and supporters, your contributions made this celebration truly special. Here’s to continued success and many more milestones ahead!

Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club Officers with the Area Director, Toastmasters Ayesha Firdose (left)

Share & Inspire Toastmasters Club Committee members at the 1^st Year Anniversary and Installation Ceremony

Becoming a Toastmasters member offers countless advantages for both personal and professional development. Members improve their communication skills by enhancing their ability to speak effectively and present ideas clearly and confidently. They also experience leadership growth by taking on leadership roles within the club and district, which helps build and refine their leadership abilities.

Toastmasters provides networking opportunities, allowing members to connect with professionals from various fields, expand their networks, and form valuable relationships. Personal development is another key benefit, as members build self-confidence, improve their impromptu speaking skills, and receive constructive feedback, all contributing to overall growth.

The skills gained in Toastmasters, such as public speaking and leadership, directly apply to professional settings, improving career prospects and workplace efficiency. The Pathways educational program offers a structured learning approach to developing communication and leadership skills through practical projects and feedback.

Members also benefit from a supportive community where they encourage each other and celebrate successes. Toastmasters clubs engage in community initiatives, giving members opportunities to contribute through public speaking and leadership.

Recognition and achievement are integral to the Toastmasters experience, with various awards, such as the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) title, celebrating members' accomplishments. Finally, meetings are enjoyable, often mixing structured activities, speeches, and interactive elements, making the learning process both fun and engaging.