CSE recognises Arfath Saleem: Top 10 best speaker of the world

Arfath Saleem being felicitated by Colombo Stock Exchange CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) proudly recognises the achievement of a member of its staff, Arfath Saleem of the Human Resources Division who competed at the World Championships of public speaking in Las Vegas, USA from 12-15 August. Saleem was placed amongst the top 10 speaker of the world. 

Following several competitions at club, area, division and district level Saleem secured a position within the top 100 best speakers of the world and thereafter competed in the semi-final held at Caesars Palace Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas. Following his victory at the semi-final he competed with the 10 best speakers of the world in the final round of the competition. 

Saleem, an experienced Toastmaster, was mentored by last year’s World Champion of Public Speaking Dhananjaya Hettiarachchi. 

He secured a coveted position within the top 100 speakers by successfully competing with over 1,500 speakers from Toastmasters Clubs within Tamil Nadu (India) and Sri Lanka which comprise Toastmaster District 82. Previously Saleem was the 2nd Runner-Up of the Humorous Speech competition within District 82. 

“Ever since I first witnessed the competition for a World Championship, eight years ago, I always envisioned myself taking part. After years of hard work, the commitment of a splendid coach and the support from my family and friends I get to see that dream to fruition. I am also grateful for a supportive work environment at the CSE and staff that has encouraged me through my journey,” Saleem said. 

The CSE also recently established a Toastmasters Club and encourages its staff to develop leadership and public speaking skills within an environment that is reassuring and challenging.