Malaysian speaks out on the power of poetry

Wordsmith: Melizarani in full flow, reciting Indianity at TedxGateway. Photo: Anushri Kumar

Melizarani T. Selva is accustomed to speaking in front of crowds. A prominent spoken word poet in the Malaysian literary scene, she’s performed before audiences of all sizes, captivating them with her insightful words and spirited delivery.

But even the experienced performer was kind of thrilled when she heard she was going to be speaking in front of thousands at the TedxGateway event in Mumbai, India. What’s more, she was going to be the first Malaysian – and first poet – to speak at this particular series of conferences.