Max Rasquinha, a distinguished toastmaster, was a pioneering force behind the growth of the Toastmasters movement in coastal Karnataka in the early 2000s. He founded The Winners’ Club, the first Toastmasters club in the coastal region, which later paved the way for the expansion of over 20 clubs across the belt. His efforts created a platform for individuals to overcome stage fright and build confidence through public speaking. From his residence in Valencia, Mangalore, Karnataka, he established multiple initiatives, including the Mangalore Amateur Speakers Club, the Mangalore Quizzing Foundation, the International Institute for Public Policy (IIPP), and the International Orientation Centre, contributing to intellectual and personal development in the region.
A successful businessman in the oil industry, Rasquinha spent several years in Houston, Texas, USA. Beyond Toastmasters, he also served as the 94th President of the Houston Downtown Lions Club in 2010, actively supporting programmes focused on youth leadership, healthcare, and community welfare.
Along with his wife Jessie, he instituted the 'Outstanding Community Leaders of Mangalore' award through IIPP to honour individuals contributing to society. This prestigious recognition, carrying a cash prize of Rs 50,000 and crystal mementoes personally selected by him from the USA, has honoured luminaries including Bishop Emeritus Dr Aloysius D'Souza, former Lokayukta Santosh Hegde, and renowned singer the late Wilfy Rebimbus. Through his mentorship, he guided students, professionals and entrepreneurs, helping shape a generation of confident speakers and leaders.
He passed away on April 11, 2026.
*Collected from the public domain
*Updated on 11/04/2026
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