Datuk Nicol David’ professional 20-year career with 108 consecutive months as the world number one female squash player has now added another achievement and honour to her name.
Recently, Datuk Nicol David, the legendary squash queen was awarded an honorary doctorate by Heriot-Watt University Malaysia.
For her contributions to athletics and support for the influence of constructive education in empowering lives, the former World No. 1 was honoured with an honorary doctorate.
On 13th February, the 39-year-old legend expressed her gratitude by saying “I’m especially happy to be awarded by Tan Sri Dr Jemilah Mahmood who I admire dearly. Thank you to the provost Professor Mushtak Al-Atabi,”
The former World Squash Champion took this opportunity by sharing a speech with the graduates about the lessons she learned over 20 years of playing squash professionally.
1. Life is never a straightforward path. We will encounter obstacles always in every step we take, some may be small, some may be big but we will always have to reroute to find our path. There is no right path in life, the beauty is finding the strength in you to push through when things get tough. Hard work will always pay off and being resilient for your dreams.
2. Stay away from people that don’t encourage you: I wish we would encourage more people to dream big instead of always finding an argument why they won’t make it. Please don’t be that person, and please stay away from people that bring you down. Having a positive environment around you will make the biggest difference in your path to reaching your dreams. Make it a priority.
3. Be a good person: Always remember no matter how successful you are, always be compassionate to others or the people around you. If you’re a good person in your life and in the career path you take, that really is the most important thing.
Dr Nicol congratulates Herriot-Watts University Malaysia on its unique, positive education that produces holistic individuals beyond academic brilliance and promotes positive mental and physical well-being to all in a video posted on the university’s YouTube page.
“I wish all of you the best in nurturing more purpose-driven leaders who will transform and impact communities around the globe,” said Nicol, who is now focused on her next career path as a businesswoman.
Here’s what the rest of the Honorary Graduates have to say:
Strive for your dreams and make this life count – Nicol Ann David
Congratulations Datuk Dr Nicol, keep inspiring us!
