Dhayaneetha’s journey into the world of public speaking began at a very young age when she was in kindergarten. During a school event, she was asked to deliver a speech on cultural differences in Malaysia. Her principal, Mrs. Lim, noticed how naturally she spoke, and that’s when everyone realized she had a special talent for public speaking. Even at such a young age, her ability to express ideas clearly and confidently stood out.

 

As Dhayaneetha grew older, her interest in public speaking continued to grow. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, she participated in numerous online public speaking competitions, including Thirukural recitation and storytelling, all done through video recordings. Despite her best efforts, she did not win any of these competitions. However, instead of feeling discouraged, this experience became a crucial turning point in her journey. She began to build her confidence and realized how much she loved speaking. Her ability to engage and captivate an audience with her tone of voice and body language became more apparent.

 

Dhayaneetha’s love for reading played a significant role in her public speaking journey. She devoured storybooks, which not only expanded her vocabulary but also provided her with a wealth of ideas and stories to share. She did not just stop at reading—she also enjoyed writing her own stories and conducting research on various topics in newspapers and on the Internet. Her insatiable curiosity, especially about animals and science, earned her the affectionate nickname "walking encyclopedia" at home. Dhayaneetha’s inspiration also comes from her father, who is a speaker himself. Watching him influence and inspire others through his words has had a profound impact on her. She aspires to follow in his footsteps, not just to win competitions but to make a difference in the lives of those who hear her speak.

 

A major milestone in Dhayaneetha’s journey was her participation in the Saraswathy English Challenge. She reached the semifinals, but despite her strong performance, she did not win. This experience, however, became another turning point for her. Determined to succeed in the future, Dhayaneetha decided to work even harder. Her English teacher, Ms. Linggesh, provided invaluable guidance and support, helping her enhance her skills and build her confidence further. Shortly after, she entered another competition, winning at the school level and then advancing to the district level, where she secured the first prize.

 

Dhayaneetha’s journey reached a new level when she competed in a state-level public speaking competition. She was given a topic that resonated deeply with her, allowing her to speak from the heart. Her delivery was powerful and filled with passion, and Dhayaneetha was awarded the second prize—a remarkable achievement given the level of competition.

 

Beyond the trophies and certificates, Dhayaneetha’s journey in public speaking has been one of personal growth and self-discovery. It is a story of determination, passion, and a continuous desire to learn and grow. With each speech she gives, she not only hones her skills but also moves closer to her goal of becoming a speaker who can inspire and uplift others, just like her father.