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Dr. Utpal Sheth - President Acceptance Speech

  • 01 Jun, 2025
  • Kandivali Recreation Club
  • Past

Good morning, everyone,
It's truly a pleasure and a privilege to stand before you today as I officially take over as the President of this remarkable organization.
As Bellubi Sir often says, "KMA is a personality development organization," and I stand here as a living example of that belief. Over the years, this association has shaped me, challenged me, and given me opportunities to grow - not just professionally but personally.
Before I say anything more, I must acknowledge two stalwarts - Dr. Rohit, our outgoing President, and Dr. Vipul, who served as our General Secretary for the past four years. Together, they've helmed KMA with a quiet resilience and unwavering commitment.
Dr. Vipul may not have always occupied the limelight, but anyone who's worked with him knows how much of the actual legwork, the coordination, and the real-time problem-solving rested on his shoulders. My deepest gratitude and a heartfelt floral tribute to him - symbolic, yes, but deeply sincere.
Dr. Rohit, with his wealth of experience and deep understanding of KMA, played a vital, though often understated, role in mentoring and guiding the team. It's a matter of pride for me to be following in his footsteps once again - just as I did when I succeeded him as General Secretary.
My own journey here spans over 24 years, through the hallways of nearly every department - Cultural, Sports, Scientific, Editorial, Finance, and Administrative. I've had the opportunity to contribute as a team member and as a team leader - and what's remained constant is the amazing group of colleagues I've worked with at each stage. You made the work joyful and the results meaningful.
I would also like to take a moment to thank all the seniors, our trustees, and the advisory board members who have mentored, encouraged, and empowered me over the years. Without your guidance, I wouldn't be here.
A special mention must go to Dr. Saurabh, our new General Secretary - though "new" may not be the right word for a man with his experience. A gynaecologist by training, and an administrator by instinct, he's someone who combines clarity with calmness - even in chaos. He's also our in-house techie, and I have no doubt he'll surprise us with a whole range of innovative, digital, and forward-looking ideas that will form the backbone of KMA's future.
Traditionally, Presidents in KMA are expected to be like the President of India - dignified, ceremonial, and mostly silent. But as most of you know, that's not quite me. I will be involved.
Thoughtfully. Responsibly. Actively. Not to micromanage but to guide, encourage and mentor. Because that's what this organization - and this moment - calls for.
As a team, we'll be taking a fresh look at our current activities - preserving the best, fine-tuning where needed, and letting go of what no longer serves us. We'll also consider reviving some beloved old programs that once created excitement and togetherness. And of course, we'll explore new ideas that speak to today's members - as professionals, learners, and community builders.
I'm also deeply inspired by the presence of so many exceptional members - individuals who have proven themselves as administrators, specialists, and creative thinkers. Just to name a few I've personally worked with - Dr. Kalpesh, Dr. Mona, Dr. Vinod, Dr. Deepak, Dr. Bhushan - and many newer faces I look forward to getting to know better in the coming months.
I see this not as a position of power, but of purpose - and I truly look forward to working with you, not above you, to write the next chapter of KMA's story.
Thank you again for your trust. I won't take it lightly - but I will carry it with sincerity, commitment, and a smile.
Let's get to work - together.
Thank you!