Breaking new grounds in the realm of effective communication and leadership, the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Toastmasters Club and National University Singapore (NUS) Toastmasters Club united for an extraordinary Joint-Meeting on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.
This unprecedented collaboration unfolded from 7 pm to 10 pm (GMT +8) at the NUS Lecture Theatre 6 (LT6 @ NUS Engineering), located at 4 Engineering Drive 3, 117583 Singapore. The event also embraced the digital age, offering online participation via Zoom.
In a first-of-its-kind occurrence, nine enthusiastic members of the UTM Toastmasters Club graced the host university, the prestigious National University of Singapore (NUS), an academic beacon renowned globally for its excellence and innovation.
This historic meeting marked a significant step towards fostering camaraderie and mutual growth between two esteemed institutions. This program received complete funding from UTM International through the Outbound Student Mobility Program.
Before the curtain rose on the momentous Joint-Meeting, the UTM Toastmasters Club members were presented with an invaluable opportunity.
They engaged in a closed-door discussion with the NUS Graduate Students Society (GSS), an illuminating conversation facilitated by Ms. Anastasiia Tikhonova (Director of Community Affairs, NUS GSS), and Mr. Nagarajan A R. (Creativity Secretary, GSS NUS).
The discussion explored potential avenues for international event collaborations and underlined the pivotal role of effective communication in bridging diverse perspectives and cultures.
Syaza Soraya Sauli (PhD Student in Educational Psychology, FSSH) as the Program Coordinator, shared her positive outlook regarding potential future collaborations between the two nations and educational institutions.
The ATU-Net SeLF 2022 event ignited the program’s inception, and former executives from both Toastmasters Clubs felt the initiative warranted another iteration this year.
She lauded the UTM Toastmasters Club as an exemplary platform that allows UTM Postgraduate students to cultivate and hone communication and leadership skills. She also expressed her highest gratitude to UTM International for supporting this outbound program.
Prior to the Toastmasters Clubs Joint Meeting, the UTM members had the privilege of immersing themselves in the NUS campus experience. This immersive journey included visits to the esteemed Yale NUS Library, an insightful Faculties Tour, an exploration of University Town, an intriguing glimpse into the realm of Computer Classes, and many more.
This comprehensive tour not only showcased the academic prowess of NUS but also provided a glimpse into the vibrant campus life that characterizes the institution.
The Joint Meeting itself led by Ms. Yip Li Xian (Immediate Past President of NUS TMC) stood as a testament to the art of effective communication and leadership.
Members from both clubs showcased their oratory finesse, participated in informative and persuasive impromptu sessions, and offered constructive feedback in an atmosphere of collaboration and self-improvement.
The event exemplified the spirit of Toastmasters, encapsulating the journey of personal development and empowerment that defines the organization.
As the curtain fell on this historic Joint-Meeting, participants and spectators alike marvelled at the significance of the occasion.
The collaboration between the UTM Toastmasters Club and NUS Toastmasters Club not only marked a pioneering achievement but also sowed the seeds for future collaborations that promise to further elevate the realms of effective communication and leadership.
About UTM Toastmasters Club: The UTM Toastmasters Club stands as a nurturing platform for individuals to enhance their communication and leadership skills, fostering personal and professional growth. UTM Postgraduate students, UTM Alumni, UTM Staff, and UTM Retirees are welcome to join this Club.
About NUS: The National University of Singapore (NUS) stands as a global leader in education, research, and innovation, renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and societal impact.
By : Syaza Soraya Sauli, Nur Aqila Kadir Hussein, Prof. Dr. Nor Haniza Sarmin