rki.news
DOHA: Malini Sahni, a Malayali educator and accomplished public speaker who made her mark across the Gulf, passed away on October 13 at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar. Known for her powerful voice, eloquence and commanding stage presence, she was a respected figure in both the education sector and the Toastmasters community.
Malini achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) in the GCC. She was also the winner of the International Speech Contest at the Gulf Toastmasters Annual Conference (GTAC) and secured second place in the World Taped Speech Contest, a coveted achievement that brought recognition to her public speaking talent.
Beyond her personal achievements, Malini was deeply committed to empowering the younger generation and played an instrumental role in establishing numerous Gavels clubs for children across the GCC. These clubs provided young people with opportunities to develop their public speaking abilities, build self-confidence and discover their leadership potential.
Originally from Kerala, Malini grew up in Kolkata. Her professional journey as an English teacher took her across India and several Gulf destinations, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Kuwait and Doha. Her last professional assignment was as an English Lecturer at Qatar Aeronautical College in Doha.
Malini had been battling serious health complications for nearly three years. She was first hospitalised in June 2022, when she was diagnosed with Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). Her health deteriorated further following a cardiac arrest in July 2023, after which she remained bedridden in a coma-like state.
She passed away on October 13. Her body was taken to India, and her cremation was held in Kolkata on October 16.
Her husband, Rajiv Sahni, serves as Group Head of Internal Audit at Al Malki Holding Group.
Malini Sahni leaves behind a legacy of excellence in education, public speaking and youth empowerment. Her pioneering achievements in Toastmasters, her dedication to nurturing young talent and her contribution to the growth of Gavels clubs across the GCC will be remembered by colleagues, friends, students and members of the Toastmasters fraternity. She also mentored hundreds of people across various fields, making a lasting impact on their personal and professional growth.
Her passing is a profound loss to the many lives she touched through her teaching, her eloquence and her unwavering belief in the potential of the next generation.
