HEART TO HEART

Pieces of Me

Growing up in a middle-class family with limited income, my parents always encouraged me to excel in my studies. Despite being a shy introvert, I always pushed myself to participate in extracurriculars at school thanks to my parents' encouragement to try my hand at everything.

My career journey began in a bank where my boss pushed me beyond my comfort zone and made me a team leader. After a sabbatical to raise my children, I came across a position in a little startup called Science Made Fun. The name sounded interesting, and I grabbed the opportunity, although small and unknown at the time. My habit of trying things I didn't know and was afraid of, helped me grow along with the company to lead as Operations Manager. As the company reached unexpected heights, I was jolted by an unexpected curve. The company ownership changed, and with that, my dream to make the company into a big organization came crashing down. Unwilling to continue with the new ownership, I was left without a job. For a workaholic, that meant being thrown into the abyss of depression. After a couple of small stints with other startups, I finally landed a role in the organization of my dreams, Qatar Foundation.

Looking back at my journey, I realize that I've discovered so many pieces of myself in unexpected places, reminding me of one of my favorite quotes, “I found my heart on a mountain I didn't know I could climb. And I wonder how many other pieces of myself are secreted away in places I judge I cannot go.”

Toastmasters has given me the opportunity to continue discovering those pieces of myself, where I hope to develop my communication and leadership skills and maybe even discover new passions and talents along the way. I'm excited to see where this journey takes me next.

Amina Khanum, President

Laughing through Technology

A Computer Science Engineer by profession, I am happily married with 2 incredible teenage boys who keep me active and energetic. Born in the bustling city of Delhi, I moved to Kerala at a very young age where I came to appreciate the miracle that is nature and learnt how to enjoy the simple things in life. As a Malayalee I am tremendously proud of my heritage and culture which I try to inculcate in my daily life.

I work in the Energy sector, where I am constantly surrounded by technology and innovation. As a Computer Science Engineer, I find myself laughing at the hilarious quirks and glitches of machines. But as the saying goes, “If at first you don’t succeed, call it version 1.0.

When I’m not working, I enjoy gardening, cooking and dance. In fact, I started learning Indian classical dance at the age of 35. I strongly believe it’s never too late to start learning something new and we should always keep challenging ourselves to push our limits.

It is this belief that brought me to Toastmasters so I can hone my skills, improve my communication and surround myself with likeminded individuals all while becoming a better version of myself.

Sreeja Varanamkudath Member