I would like to bring to your attention to a free weekly program at the Plainsboro Library called the “Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program” (YLP), organized by Sneha Jeevan, a rising junior at High School South. The program started on May 3 and concluded with a graduation on June 21.
My child, Charan Mehta, a sixth grader at Grover Middle School, was one of the participants in the program, which focuses on developing public speaking skills, self-confidence, and leadership skills.
As I understand, Sneha has attended the Toastmasters program at ETS Princeton for six years and won many awards for her speaking skills and leadership ability. Last year she became a mentor. She co-mentored a successful Youth Toastmasters program at Pennington Library. Subsequently she mentored the 2014 YLP program at ETS. She continued her passion by starting a YLP in her home town — Plainsboro. Princeton Toastmasters provided official sponsorship for the program by sending its members, Angie Hee and Jeevan Ravindran, for assistance. Thus, Toastmasters YLP at Plainsboro was born. About 30 middle-schoolers, all first-timers, were enrolled.
I was impressed with the program. Week after week I notice tremendous improvements in Charan and other kids. The best part was that they were having fun while they learned. The program offered an open and accepting environment, where kids were encouraged to express themselves freely. The program also featured many eloquent guest speakers. I believe Sneha truly deserves recognition for her work.
Pushpa Mehta
Hampshire Drive, Plainsboro
