Ladies and gentlemen,
Every so often, we meet someone who doesn’t just cross our path, but quietly shapes the way we grow, the way we think, and the way we show up in life. For me and for many others that person is Dr. Venga Kalachulu.
My connection with Dr. Venga began almost 15 years ago. A mutual friend invited me to one of his events, and I walked in not knowing what to expect. But the moment he began speaking, something stood out: the sincerity in his voice, the passion behind his message, and the genuine intention to help people become better. It wasn’t just a programme; it was a moment that changed the direction of my life.
From that day onwards, I’ve been fortunate to learn from him. Over the past nearly two decades, he has helped me, guided me, encouraged me and more than anything else, he has inspired me. Not with big speeches meant to impress, but through his authenticity, his wisdom, and the way he carries himself. So much of what I practise today in my own work is influenced by something I learned from him. He didn’t just support my journey, he shaped it.
And what makes his influence so powerful is the story behind who he is.
Dr. Venga did not come from comfort or privilege. His mother passed away at birth. At just three years old, he was separated from his father during the Japanese invasion of Singapore. He grew up in deep poverty, unable to read or write until the age of 13. Life gave him obstacles that would have defeated most people.
But instead of breaking under those challenges, he rose above them. Through determination, self-discipline, and an unwavering will to succeed, he transformed his life. By 25, he became the managing director of a multinational pharmaceutical company in Malaysia, an incredible milestone by any measure. From there, he went on to become a pioneer in the pharmaceutical industry, known for his groundbreaking sales methods and people-development techniques.
Yet the most extraordinary part is not his success, it’s what he chose to do with it.
For more than 35 years, through Ventrax and beyond, he has dedicated himself to helping others discover their strength, unlock their potential, and become more than they believed possible. People from all walks of life, CEOs, professionals, students, parents, they all share the same sentiment:
“He inspired me.”
“He changed my life.”
“He helped me become who I am today.”
That is who he is, a man who takes his experiences and turns them into wisdom, his challenges and turns them into purpose, his success and turns it into service.
For me personally, knowing him has been one of the greatest blessings of my journey. His guidance, his encouragement, and his example have shaped me in ways I will always be grateful for.
And I know I am just one of many.
Tonight, we honour not just his achievements, but his heart, his character, his resilience, and the countless lives he has touched over the years.
It is with immense respect and deep admiration that we recognise him tonight.
And it is our absolute privilege to honour him with this award, an award he is more than deserving of, the Lifetime Award.
Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming Dr. Venga Kalachulu.