KUCHING: Hani Nur Zaihanirah Zaini has etched her name into history after becoming the first Sarawakian woman to be elected to the Board of Directors of Toastmasters International.

According to Toastmasters International, Zaini was elected for the 2025–2027 term at the organisation’s International Convention, held in Philadelphia, United States from 20 to 23 August.

“She is the first Sarawakian woman ever elected to the position, through a rigorous global nomination process. Hani now joins an elite circle of leaders from around the world,” it said in a statement.

Her journey has been one of commitment and passion.

As the Group General Manager of Faradale Holdings, she has long championed leadership, growth, and empowerment, both in the corporate world and through her work with AZAM Sarawak, where she supports youth and community initiatives.

A Toastmaster since 2013, Hani is a member of two home clubs, AZAM Toastmasters Club and Vivid Voices Podcast Toastmasters.

She has held several high-profile leadership positions within Toastmasters and attained the Distinguished Toastmaster designation, the highest level of educational achievement in the organisation.

To her, Toastmasters is like a door that opens to a version of oneself never before realised, more confident, capable, and courageous.

“On the other side, you’ll find the confidence to speak up, the skills to lead, and a community that genuinely supports your growth. Walking through that door was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I know it can be for anyone ready to grow,” she said.

As a member of the Toastmasters International Board of Directors, Hani serves as a working ambassador for the organisation, collaborating with the Board to develop, support, and refine the policies and procedures that guide Toastmasters International in fulfilling its mission.

Her election is more than a personal success, it is a story of how Sarawakians can rise to the highest levels of global leadership, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps. -UKASnews