The Women’s Studies Centre of Thiagarajar College, Madurai organized a motivational lecture titled “Strength Beyond Sight: Building a Powerful Mindset” on 12th December 2025, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal – 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Sustainable Development Goal – 4 (Quality Education). The programme was designed to empower visually challenged students by fostering confidence, strengthening resilience, and encouraging them to recognize and harness their abilities beyond perceived limitations. The event was graced by Ms. Tiffany Brar, Nari Shakthi Puraskar Awardee and Founder of Jyothirgamaya Foundation, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and Mr. Balraman, associated with Jyothirgamaya Foundation, both distinguished visually challenged achievers, who served as the chief guests. The programme witnessed active participation from a total of 183 participants, including 177 college students and 6 visually challenged participants.
The session commenced at 10:30 a.m. with a warm Welcome Address and introduction of the chief guests delivered by Dr. M. Alamelumangai, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology. Dr. D. Pandiaraja, Principal of the college, formally honoured Ms. Tiffany Brar and Mr. Balraman with felicitation and delivered the Presidential Address, appreciating their inspiring life journey and valuable contributions to society.
Ms. Tiffany Brar, Founder of Jyothirgamaya Foundation and a committed social worker, expressed her happiness at being invited to the programme. As a visually challenged individual herself, she spoke powerfully about the unique talents present in every individual and encouraged students to stop complaining, accept their situation with clarity, and make the best use of available resources. She shared her personal struggles, including learning mathematics and driving, to illustrate that challenges are an essential part of growth. She urged students to use opportunities wisely, develop strong communication skills, make effective use of assistive technology, and complete every task with sincerity and wholehearted effort.
Mr. Balraman, also a visually challenged speaker, appreciated the prayer song and spoke about Thiruvasagam, recalling the spiritual and literary contributions of Manikkavasakar. Emphasizing self-belief, he stated that true strength lies in the mind and attitude rather than physical abilities. He highlighted the importance of working for the betterment of society, staying content, and finding happiness within oneself.
An interactive session followed, during which the speakers emphasized that positive change begins within oneself. They noted that inspiration does not necessarily come from social media but from everyday experiences and people around us. The session highlighted the value of resilience built through facing struggles, travelling independently, and embracing new opportunities. Happiness was described as an inner strength that helps individuals rise above challenges. The role of spirituality in fostering a clear, focused, and unattached mindset, along with ongoing efforts to empower visually challenged individuals, was also discussed.
A special session exclusively for visually challenged students provided an opportunity for personal interaction with the chief guests. Students openly discussed their goals, challenges, and aspirations. Drawing from their own lived experiences, the chief guests guided students on recognizing emerging opportunities in education, technology, and employment, particularly through digital platforms and assistive tools. Students were encouraged not to compare themselves with others, to fight for their dreams, take strong and confident steps, speak up for themselves, and create awareness among parents and society by becoming examples of self-reliance and determination. The session was highly motivating and instilled confidence, clarity, and hope among the participants.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Ms. J. S. Shivaanee, I B.Sc. Psychology, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the chief guests, organizers, and participants for making the event a grand success.
