From the President's Desk “It doesn't matter where you start but how you finish that matters” - Unknown Dear all,
I
t gives me great pleasure addressing you all as the
President of Manama Toastmasters Club; I remember it like it was yesterday, the first time I attended the meeting at MTM, I had no idea what was I doing here, someone had TM Rashid Ahmed Maymoon recommended to me to go and join a toastmasters club. Little did I know how important toastmasters and in particular MTM will become in my life. The most amazing thing that I liked about toastmasters was and is the fact that it is trial and error learning platform. We don’t have to be perfect, we make mistakes and we learn from them, we improve through learning from our experiences. Life provides us with opportunities, it is our choice whether to accept it or run away from it. Unfortunately nowadays, people tend to run away from opportunities and taking up responsibilities, because of the fear of failing, but I would rather try and fail than to have failed to try. This the main motivation behind me taking the role of President. To help and encourage all the members, not some, and not for the sake of DCP points, but to try helping every member achieving their goals and benefit from the toastmasters to the maximum. So it made sense when we (me and my amazing executive committee) were deciding on the theme for the term, we thought of something that will reflect our goals this term of encouraging all, but at the same time making sure we stay focused on the leadership track as much as the focus on communication track. That is why our theme is:
“Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders” We have set an ambitious goal for ourselves, but with the amazing leaders of MTM, we are sure that we can accomplish it. I would like this opportunity to thank all my mentors who have been a guiding light and have encouraged and helped me along my toastmaster’s journey. I also ask all of them and my fellow toastmasters to keep the feedback coming. Don’t expect perfection, but expect mistakes, also expect us to learn from it and improve.
Long live MTM
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
From the Editor's Hammock
I
TM Ameena Nathani
joined MTM almost a year ago. When I joined, I did not realize, I will be so serious about it. My aim was to come twice a month, BUT being with MTM is like an addiction now. My goal was to make myself a confident speaker which to a large extent is improving. Before, I could think of anything else, I was given a responsibility of VPPR, believe me my heart was beating very fast hearing this. A team of advisers gave me a great deal of confidence now i'm here representing the MTM family .
Well well!!! There is so much happening around this month (janauary), I can't believe my eyes , time is flying like express speedometer. Things like AIR SHOW IN BAHRAIN. Installation Ceremony, which was amazingly conducted by both the Excoms, I felt really proud to be a part of MTM.. Sakhir Camp - which was the first Social event for MTM members, with friends 'n' relatives. Most of them attended the event. Special Meeting for juniors - Star Wars, where we had special guest Mr. Aditya Maheshwaran, 2nd place winner, World Champion of Public Speaking, 2015. How can we forget the Humorous Contest, which was a huge success. Congratulations to TM Jeena, TM Rashid and TM Chris. We completed one month successfully and urge you to keep the same spirit through out the term.
Congratulations to our
Humorous Speech Contest Winners
Improving Communication‌.Empowering Leaders
INSTALLATION OF NEW EXCOM
Executive Committee for the term January - June 2016: From Left to Right: TM Bilkais Khan, TM Jeena Ann John, TM Hannah Karanja, TM Rashid Ahmed Maymoon, TM Biljana Davceva, TM Ameena Nathani, TM Shubhashree Srinivasan
A
fter weeks of careful planning and several meetings between the outgoing and incoming Executive Committee Members of Manama Toastmasters, there was an air of eager anticipation as members and guests converged TM Chris Noronha at the Conference Centre of the Crowne Plaza Hotel in the Diplomatic Area.
Rathore delivered his Address at the lectern, fondly reminiscing about his experience during his term as President. Mr. Mohamed Akeel, the Managing Director of Coca Cola was thanked for taking time off his busy schedule to be the Chief Guest. TM Khurram Salman, Area 3 Director was also welcomed and lauded for his efforts in enhancing the image of Toastmasters and contributing to its betterment.
Hours ahead of schedule, the staff of the hotel in co-ordination with the Executive Committee had prepared the hall to the satisfaction of even the most finicky of souls. This included three attempts at moving the table of the Executive Committee around the hall, much to the consternation of the outgoing VP Education as she sighed and groaned in frustration. However within minutes, calm was restored with everything as it should be. Royal blue satin runners down the centre of silver tables with vases of fuchsia flowers highlighted the true elegance of the evening.
This was followed by the introduction of one of
As members gradually began trickling in, one could not help but notice the air of camaraderie and the warmth exchanged between individuals who had not met up for ages. This affection is what makes us here at Manama Toastmasters unique. With the call to order by the Sergeant-at-Arms, the outgoing President TM Laxman Singh
the most dedicated and creative individuals TM Khalid Amin who was to be the Master of Ceremonies of the evening. As he briefed all attendees on the highlights of the evening, his quick witty banter and personal poetic touch ensured that he held the attention of the audience. The control was then handed over to outgoing VP Education TM Tanaji Ahmed who delivered her report in such a concise organized manner, yet with a grace that is quite unique and belongs to her alone. With the distribution of Awards by the Chief Guest and the Area 3 Director along with the President, it was a great moment as we recognized the hard work and commitment of some of the members who had diligently done their best and made us all proud. The Installation Ceremony was then conducted
by the Area 3 Director TM Khurram Salman with dignity and grace as he discharged the outgoing Executive Committee consisting of President – TM Laxman Singh Rathore VP Education – TM Tanaji Ahmed Omer VP Membership – TM Amina Al Hajri VP Public Relations – TM Victoria Cox Secretary – TM Barry Dunne
There was then a short Entertainment session, first a game of “You Can’t Say No” by TM Kishan Kumar who randomly selected members. A riproaring good time was had by all, participants as well as the audience. The second Entertainment programme was presented by TM Guraz Wankadia who tried to quiz us on our “Mind Power.” Unfortunately, some were found to be just about average which sums it up.
Sergeant-at-Arms – TM Anup Sudhakaran of their responsibilities.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Mohamed Akeel the Managing Director of Coca Cola then delivered his address. We all learned a great deal of his past and his efforts in his rise to success during
The incoming Executive Committee consisting of
his 25 years of service. There were several words of wisdom he imparted to all the listeners. He
Treasurer – TM Somaya Al Jowder
President – TM Rashid Maymoon VP Education – TM Hannah Karanja VP Membership – TM Biljana Davceva VP Public Relations – TM Ameena Nathani Secretary – TM Jeena John Treasurer – TM Shubhashree Srinivasan Sergeant-at-Arms – TM Bilkais Khan were then asked to hold the gavel as a symbol of leadership as they made their pledge. In his acceptance speech, the President TM Rashid Maymoon thanked all the members for their trust in him. He went on to explain the objectives he along with his female counterparts hoped to achieve over the next six months as this was not a one-man show. He highlighted the theme of the term which was “Improving Communication, Empowering Leaders.” He urged all members to grab the opportunity presented to them and to help the club grow by leaps and bounds.
Leadership meant holding hands, being transparent and most importantly never to be afraid of challenging others and being challenged in return. reminded all that there was no “I” in “Team.” He further elaborated that Leadership meant holding hands, being transparent and most importantly never to be afraid of challenging others and being challenged in return. He commended the members on their pride of the club which was quite evident to all and urged them to further contribute to society in terms of leadership and development. After closing comments by the Master of Ceremonies, the President adjourned the meeting at 9pm. That about covers it all, I hope.
Chris Noronha
Public Relations Team - Jan to Jun 2016
Interview with
DTM Aditya Maheswaran
Q
1: When and how did your Toastmasters Journey first start?
My Toastmasters journey officially started in early 2006 since that’s when I paid up. My father had heard about TM way back in 1980 when he was deputed in the US on work. So when he saw an article about it in the papers, he decided to join…ermmm…not him, but make his son join the Chennai chapter. Q2: What do you like about Toastmasters? I believe that all of us need a platform to fail. It’s a great stress buster to fail without anxiety. That’s the only way we get better at anything we do. Unfortunately, work life and personal life do not give the luxury to fail often. Toastmasters fill that gap. The more I’ve failed at Toastmasters, the more I’ve succeeded outside of it. Q3: Some say that the skills you learn in Toastmasters don’t really apply to real life, what’s your take on that? It really depends on what you are learning at toastmasters. For example, if I only learn differential calculus in school, it may not always be useful in life. However, if I learn teamwork in school, it most definitely is useful in life. Similarly, learning transferrable skills in Toastmasters is a personal choice which smart members make. And it does wonders for them.
Did you hear about Manama Toastmasters Club before coming to Bahrain? Yes. I first heard of Manama TM club, way back in 2007 when a past member of your club, who had moved back to India, told me that he was the Emcee of the 1000th meeting. The day he said it was the day I was the Emcee of my club’s 100th meeting. 1000 seemed an unreachable and dizzy milestone. From that event, I’ve always wanted to visit Manama TM Club. Q4: How was the experience like being a finalist in the World Championship of Public Speaking? It was a humbling experience because I had the opportunity to represent my country and such wonderful people back home who stayed up late just to cheer on! Q5: Are we going to see you compete again? Yes you will, for sure. But probably not this year. Q6: What advice will you give to Toastmasters who are going to take part in the contests this year?
I’d urge them to reflect on what’s worked well for them in life in the past, and use those techniques to prepare for their championship. Because though success is a generic feeling, the techniques that take you there varies for each person. It’s important to identify what works for you, before you embark on an ambitious journey. Q7: What do you think has been the key to your success so far? I take pride at my consistency in Toastmasters. I used to be like a butterfly all my life, moving from flower to flower, until Toastmasters happened. It taught me discipline to take one thing at a time, master it, and then move on to the next. Q8: Did you hear about Manama Toastmasters Club before coming to Bahrain? Yes. I first heard of Manama TM club way back in 2007 when a past member of your club, who had moved back to India, told me that he was the Emcee of the 1000th meeting. The day he said it was the day I was the Emcee of my club’s 100th meeting. 1000 seemed an unreachable and dizzy milestone. From that event, I’ve always wanted to visit Manama TM Club. Q10: Now that you have visited the club, what are your impressions about MTM? The hour I spend at MTM on 23rd Jan was an interesting experience. I commend the structure of the club meeting which is protocol-based and as per TM guidelines. These are additional skills we learn at TM, which many clubs deter from. I feel you have a great venue and an assortment of members bringing in different perspectives. That’s the kind of public any speaker wants to speak in front of. Q11: Is the club experience different from club to club, or from country to country or is it the same? While the TM experience has been the same in all the 100+ clubs I’ve visited around the world, each country/culture adds its uniqueness. Some clubs are more formal in nature, some aren’t. The evaluations are more critical in some cultures, and not in others. Over time, I’ve accepted that as the beauty of a truly global organization we are part of. Q12: Any final words of wisdom that you will like to share with us? It’s only when you INVOLVE, do you EVOLVE. So LOVE Toastmasters, and Toastmasters will LOVE you back!!
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
Our Marathon Relay Team
On the 27th of November 2015, our Manama Toastmasters runners once again hit the road in Bahrain to take part in the annual Bahrain Marathon Relay. Enjoy the “birds eye view” pictures of the day. TOASTMASTER OF THE MONTH - January 2016
TM JEENA ANN JOHN
NEW CL
TM FATIMA SALEH
Congratulations TM Fatima Saleh on achieving CL
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
The (audible) Rule of Three Claire Cosgrove If comedians can use it, and get away with it, then we can use it on the way to the humorous podium. We all should know the Rule of Three technique in our speech prep. This is another notch up as we take from the comedian toolbox. We present two ‘normal’ comments that help convey our message. Comments that relate perfectly to our topic. Then along comes No 3. WHAM, BAM, KAPOW! We catch the listener off guard. That’s good marksmanship in the world of comedy. We say something unfitting and even outlandish. Let me give you an example: “When I started my own business, I had a dream, I had a business plan and I had . . . a waistline”. People, like DTM Joel will say “I had hair – and plenty of it”. TM Guraz may well say “I had a vision, I had money, and now . . . I have a wife”.
Ha Ha, Ha Ha, Heeeehee Claire Cosgrove
Ha Ha, Ha Ha, Heeeehee Funny title! Well it’s meant to be funny. But that’s the response, the sound. Well , let’s get something straight. Reading it is never funny. Funny is supposed to be heard. So why are you writing this then?? Because I want to tell you about the (audible) Rule of Three.
There is a rhythm. A sing-song quality that lulls the listener into travelling the journey of listening to you. And so No 3 must have the ‘Kapow’ effect. Short or long, that is not so critical. But often shorter is better. You could use long sentences or even ask questions. Bottom line is: It is the “1, 2, Kapow!”
Oh, we do that when writing our speech.
What the listener expects, then what is normal or fitting, and then throw the listener in a spin. Create that topsy-turvy world of confusion.
Great idea! But we still need to know what to
The technique should get the response you want from your audience. And if the audience is laughing, it means they are listening. How many public speakers and lecturers wish they could say that their audience listens to them?
This is not the same. Would you listen! But I am reading. I know you are reading. Why don’t you record it then? record. And “Yes, there are talking books”. But NO TALKING HORIZON yet! This trick has been used forever Well, ever since man learnt that he could be funny.
“I have plenty of waist and the line is an everexpanding, continuous circle.”
OK. So that s not so long ago.
Here I have added a fourth and fifth component to my first example. This may very well still get a laugh.
And are willing to share it with our compatriots.
It’s the power of three that really works. So Instead of using a 4th and 5th component, you could have multiple sets of the rule of three. This will create a crescendo effect with ever increasing anticipation on the part of the audience.
But, we women know the art. The Rule of Three Heard it before! Used it before? So what is different this time? It will get you the ‘heeeheee’ moment.
So let’s all try, “1, 2, Kapow!”
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
PRECIOUS GRANDPARENTS Jeena Ann John Street was empty, sky turning out dark. Miles a head I can see a lady walking bare foot. Many times I called her “Granny”… “Granny” but she never turned back. Suddenly rain started showering, harder clouds got separated a part. Guardian angels walked towards granny, with their magical fingers the granny got dressed as fairy and taken back to sky. I was shocked and fear swallowed me. I Closed my eyes and rubbed it. OH “It was just a dream”. A few seconds later phone buzzed a message “Granny waved goodbye to all of us. May her soul rest in peace”. In school days, I would wait patiently for the vacation to start. A separate back-pack is prepared and loaded with sweets, cloths, accessories, blankets etc to give my grandparents, specially granny. On the other end, she would keep crossing ‘x’ on the calendar dates and wait impatiently for me. Various delicious foods made of jaggery, raw bananas, jack fruit will be prepared and properly packed in separate cans only for me to inaugurate. Grandfather will be swiping the channels to find out the day and time of tele serial “shakthiman” getting broadcasted. Once I step out of the Trivandrum airport granny would run faster, hug me tight and say “princess chakki you came at last” . Chakki was my nick name. I was the favorite kid for my grandparents. Probably most of the evenings by 6:00pm,
grandfather would take me for a ride on his rusty cycle. It will be one hour ride. Takes me to all corned snack and beauty shop. At the end of the ride, I will be holding grandfathers favorite “Sainthood soap”. After night prayers, by 9:00pm all will be gathered around the round table and crave for the tasty rice porridge and spicy chutney. Mortar and pestle is the ancient device seen in granny's kitchen to prepare chutney and grind the rice. As years passed I never realized they would walk away from me. I miss their love, hug and gift. They could be a stubborn Parent In-Law, but for me they are still “PRECIOUS GRAND PARENTS”.
Challenges for 2016
Claire Cosgrove
Dream BIG Every great achievement was once impossible Choose WISELY You are the sum total of all your choices. Choose HAPPINESS The happiest people do not have the best of everything BUT make the best of everything they do have. Look for the FUNNY “From there to here and here to there, funny things are everywhere”- Dr Seuss Paint Life LARGE “Life is a great big canvas and you should throw all the paint on it that you can” - Danny Kaye Get COMFORTABLE beingUNCOMFORTABLE “When nothing is sure, everything is possible”- Margaret Drabble CELEBRATE Life Choose one thing every day to celebrate - Scott Freidman Practise GR-ATTITUDE “Abundance flourishes in a grateful heart” - Sir Harold Klemp Be KIND Kindness is contagious, so infect the world. Be the next global epidemic!!!
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
Words of the Day Ebullient
(adjective)Having or showing liveliness and enthusiasm Cheerful and full of energy Example: The ebullient story was so uplifting that I danced in my chair.
Sed.u.lous
\ˈse-jə-ləs\ - adjective 1: involving or accomplished with careful perseverance <sedulous craftsmanship> Synonyms busy sed·u·lous·ly adverb sed·u·lous·ness noun Examples of SEDULOUS an impressively sedulous suitor, he was constantly sending her flowers and other tokens of his affection
Pettifog
Verb: Pettifogged, Pettifogging Noun: Pettifogger, Pettifoggery Meaning: To Argue over Unimportant Details
BIRTH DAYS- January & February JANUARY
FEBRUARY
6th - TM Ratinder Nath
9th -
TM Muna Al Alaiwi
7th - TM Kishan Kumar P. S.
9th -
TM Jeena Ann John
15th - TM Mohammed Suleiman
10th - TM Tanaji Ahmed
27th - TM Mariam George
12th - TM Biljana Davceva
31st - TM Afaf Zainelebdin
14th - TM Isaac Mathew 16th - TM Bharat Patil 18th - TM Ameena Nathani
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
Desert Camping with Head Gears
A
nother beautiful day has left a remarkable smile in the hearts of Manama Toast masters. Cold and chilled 5 hours of camp out in Sakhir desert has knit the members with laughter, game and music. Before the start of the journey we arrived at the Alosra supermarket, which is located near Riffa views. As most members were unfamiliar with the track towards the camp, it was a great challenge to bring them at the right place. The camp was set with three tents and wide open place was occupied with BBQ, camp fire and games. Campers were served with Spicy, delicious aloo samoosas and masala tea. The fully furnished tents having capacity to serve above 50 people were waiting for TM Joel’s magical hands to flourish the camp with music. He enchanted and entertained members to dance on music with high beats. As the Theme of the day is “head gears”, campers have presented creative head gears from Moroccan, Indian, Disneyland character and many more. TM Guraz (Program director) brought varied size head gears and looking for perfect head to get fit in it. TM Khalid’s Algerian Cap with a life of its own finally got settled on TM Biljana. “Donald duck” cap of TM Subhashree was a central attraction for kids. Camping is no good if there are no games. TM Guraz encouraged all the members including the family to involve in Sack race, Cricket and Hula game. TM Kishore captured each moment. “Kishor Photo” the word of the day was constantly announced in the camp by TM Guraz . Excitement and cheering by viewers strengthened the participants to win the game. Winners including the children were presented with gift by the president TM Rashid Maymoon. TM Laxman and wife added a perfect essence to the ground with dance and they are the final winner of the Hula game. BBQ (charcoal grill) was collective effort of toastmasters and their family members. Lyju Varghese (perfect companion of TM Jeena) has voluntarily taken accountability of grilling chop chicken, malai tikka and sheikh kabab. Sunder demonstrated his skills on grilling Veg sheikh, paneer and mashroom tikka. The team was facilitated by TM Mohammed Saleem, TM Rashid and TM Bilkais. The weather which was turning colder has naturally turned campers to flavor the
essence of delicious grill. The food was delicious and hit all the appetite of BBQ lovers. The mouth melting grills made the campers very happy, and all applauded the consistent effort and contribution of Mohammed Akeel and elegant VPPR TM Ameena Nathani. Unlike every dish, these delicious grills was also served with soft drinks. As the night fell, it was awfully getting chilly. This winter camping will not be perfect, if there is no campfire. Everyone including president was around the campfire. Through fun and laughter, the young kids were getting an opportunity to discover the insight of happy camping. Sitting around the campfire TM Barry was sharing stories to people sitting besides him. One of the favorite things to do at the camping is to sing songs. After the delicious grill campers were impatiently waiting to sing out the nostalgic or melodrama songs. TM Joel picked the songs that our campers could enjoy the most. The sparkling 80’s and 90’s song made the campers to ride back to their fantasy world. At the end of the day Mohammed Akeel sung the melodious song “Oh Rahi Oh Rahi” . VPPR team is very thank full to TM Avneesh, TM Barry, TM Athavan, TM Mohammed Sulaiman, TM Khurram Salman, TM Sanjib Mahapatra, TM Shubhashree, TM Biljana, TM Dr. Khalid Amin,TM Laxman, TM Amina Al Hajri, TM Guraz Wankadia, TM Jeena, TM Abdul Rahman, TM Azza Bakai, TM Saleem, TM Bilkais, TM Indrupati Joel, TM Claire Cosgrove, TM Rashid Maymoon, TM Kishore who contributed efforts and time to make this camping a great success. As in every camping trip there would be few versatile people who are expert in many things and they should be a role model for the young generation.Thank you all for being so versatile and enjoying the evening so thouroughly. Finally we thank the EXCOM and President TM Rashid Maymoon for guiding , advising and supporting till the end of the program.
TM Jeena JOHN
VPPR Subcommittee Team
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
MTM Desert Camp 5 th February 2016
Lessons learned the hard way
M
y Dear Friends who does not remember school days? Who does not remember the days spent among the noise of other children, the thundering voice of the teacher scolding students who did not write their homework or the sweat and tears when studying for exams? I still remember one of my life periods I wish that it will never come back again is my final semester year of my secondary school. I got sick with chicken pox. As a result of all the stress at that critical year. I did not seem to recover fas. However I continued my regular studies, like usual until that day my teacher informed me that I need to take a long rest until I recover completely, since they are afraid of other students getting sick. The main problem was that there were only three months till the final exams. I remember my mom going to the school and she was very angry. She started shouting loudly at them and aggressively told them: “How could you make that decision? Don't you know how this year is critical in her life? She is trying her hardest to pass through safely”. Finally, they agreed that I take two weeks off so I can recover and then I can go back to school. Thank God! Along with the support of my family and the help of my teachers I passed through this difficult time and I got good grades that helped me to secure my future. That time I needed to have my midterm exams. If you thought I was able to take exam with all my classmates in the regular classroom...YOU ARE WRONG. I had to take all the exams in the dark room and alone without any teacher only the nurse. I felt like a prisoner isolated from everyone else and Tears as big as raindrops started rolling down my face as I held the pen and wrote my exam. The strong pungent smell of antiseptic stung my nose and made me sicker than I was. “How could I survive
TM Azza Abdulla Bakai
through this difficult time? Will I be able to pass through it safely? That was what went and came through my head. I felt as if I was a monster instead of that hard working student. When I finished the exam I was not allowed to go to my classroom sometimes some of my teachers would run away from me and cover their face. I felt like a monster caged in that school, someone who was surrounded by people, and yet alone. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend my graduation ceremony because of the scars that covered every bit of my face making my face look like a chapati. I could not go up on that stage to receive the diploma like everyone else. One chair on that stage was empty…my chair. If I get a chance to go back, I would love to attend it without any scar. With all the cooperation and the support of my friends, help of my teachers and the encouragement of my family I was able to get a very high score of 94% at my secondary school that allowed me to reach my dream in studying Electronics Engineering in UOB. My dearest friends through that period of my life, I learned that it does not matter what others think of you but what you think of yourself. Also, I learned that what does not kill you makes you stronger. Tough moments in our lives make us stronger. Even if the situations look difficult we must do our best to overcome them. No man is an island, no one can live alone you need your support system. For me they were my family and friends. Who are they for you? Appreciate them and hold them tightly and remember them in your hard times.
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
The Rise of the Rejected
A
Few days ago, I came across a picture of actress Meryl Streep, standing in a crowded train. It was being shared on social media by many of my friends. It was an inspirational post. But, I felt there was something wrong with it. Under the picture was the caption: “This was me on my way home from an audition, for ‘King Kong’ where I was told I was too "ugly" for the part”. Some "Unofficial: Meryl L Streep" had posted the picture. And the caption ran a little longer, ending like this: “.. I took a deep breath and said ‘I'm sorry you think I'm too ugly for your film but you're just one opinion in a sea of thousands and I'm off to find a kinder tide.’ Today I have 18 Academy Awards”. The last part was the wrong part. The ending of the caption. I knew Meryl Streep had been nominated for Oscars or Academy Awards 19 times, and had won only thrice. So, for me, the post immediately became suspect. And I immediately knew those words were not really Meryl Streep’s. How can she forget the Academy Awards she’d won? These days, any over-enthusiastic fan can makeup anything about his idol, and post. Without verifying the information. But, that is the wrong part. Let us talk about the “right” part of the story. We know it’s true she was called “ugly” by the one auditioning her. She said it herself in ‘The Graham Norton Show’ once. And the role she lost in ‘King Kong’ (1976) had gone to Jessica Lange who, incidentally, left an indelible image on my mind, during that impressionable age of my adolescence. That image of a terrifying, yet mesmerizing, waterfall scene! But coming back to Meryl Streep, we can see that with great determination she was able to make an
DTM Indrupati Joel Academy Awards debut in 1979 itself. Just three years after her ‘King Kong’ rejection, with her nomination for her supporting role in ‘The Deer Hunter’. An year later, she won Best Supporting Actress Oscar for ‘Kramer vs. Kramer’. And then the Best Actress Oscars for 'Sophie's Choice' (1982) and 'The Iron Lady' (2011). Rejection is something that many people face. But as they say, you can’t keep a good man down. He’ll bounce back every time. That goes for a woman too. How many times have we heard about the man who was fired by ‘Kansas City Star’ newspaper in 1919 because he “lacked imagination and had no good ideas?” He thrilled us as Walt Disney? And what about that musician at Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry, who was told by the concert hall manager that he was better off returning to Memphis, and driving trucks? We know him now as Elvis Presley. Or that man who was rejected from the University of Southern California’s School of Theater, Film and Television ‘three’ times? He still became a director we all like. Steven Spielberg. How about the man who applied for a job in San Francisco Examiner and was told, “you just don’t know how to use the English language”? He regaled the world with beautiful stories from India, as Rudyard Kipling. Edison, Einstein, Oprah Winfrey, Michael Bloomberg, Jerry Seinfield, Steve Jobs and J K Rowling are but a few of the many examples of the rise of the rejected. Meryl Streep knew her own value, and she did not her rejection count. She accepted herself as she was. And that, I think, is the first step in rising up.
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
Meetings & Themes Meeting No. 2544 - January 2nd 2016 MC - TM Muna Ali Alaiwi Theme - "Commitment" Awards: Best Speaker : TM Biljana Davceva Best Evaluator: TM Claire Cosgrove Best TT Commentator: TM Bilkais Khan Meeting No. 2545 - Jan 9th 2016 MC TM Barry Dunne Theme - Tips To Live By In 2016 Awards: Best SpeakerTM Prashanth Renghe Best Evaluator: TM Muna Ali Alaiwi Best TT Commentator: TM Kishan Kumar Meeting No. 2546 - Jan 16, 2016 Installtion Ceremony MC - TM Khalid Amin Meeting 2547 - January 23rd 2016 MC TM Jonathan Watson Theme - Star Wars Awards: Best Speaker: TM Peer Mohammed Saleem Best Evaluator: TM Barry Dunne Best TT Commentator: TM Azza Bakai Meeting No. 2548 - Jan 30th, 2016
HUMOROUS SPEECH CONTEST Contest Chair: TM Somaya Abdulrahman Al Jowdar Winners: 1st place: TM Jeena John 2nd Place: TM Rashid Maymoon 3rd Place: TM Chris Noronha
Meeting 2549 - Feb 06, 2016 MC: Tm Azza Bakai Theme: “Magic Of Believing” Awards: Best Speaker: TM Sheela Pai Best Evaluator: TM Amina Al Hajri Best Table Topic Commentator: Nandhini (Guest) Meeting No. 2550 - Feb 13th, 2016 MC - TM Kishore Babu Theme: “Apple” Awards: Best Evaluator: TM Biljana Davceva. Best TT Commentator: TM Tanheem Riyas. Meeting 2551 - 20th Feb, 2016
INTERNATIONAL SPEECH CONTEST Contest Chair: TM Muna Al Alaiwi
Winners: 1st Place: TM Kishore Babu 2nd Place: TM Biljana Davcheva 3rd Place: TM Guraz Wankadia
27th February- Meeting 2552 Theme: Man (Men Appreciation Night) MC: TM Laxman Singh Rathore Awards: Best Speaker: TM Kishore Babu Best Evaluator: TM Clement Vinayak Best TT Commentator: TM Claire Cosgrove
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
In the NEWS...
Toastmaster of the month - February TM Kishore Babu ROLE
Points Points Alloted Earned
Master of Ceremonies
15
15
Project speech
10
10
Dues paid in advance
10
10
Participating in a Contest
10
10
Attendance
05
20
Winning a contest
05
05
Total points
70
Improving Communicationâ&#x20AC;Ś.Empowering Leaders
Tips for choosing Formal Suits Rule #1 Fit is everything. Even the world's most expensive suit will look bad if it isn't tailored to the contours of your body. Rule #2 Some think button-down collars are for casual wear only, but they can work great with dressier looks as well.
Rule #3 Polka dots are a great way to bring energy to a suit. Make sure they're big enough to be recognizable, but not so large that they're goofy. Rule #4 A tried-and-true pattern like herringbone or glen plaid in a muted shade makes an impression without crossing into the realm of garishness.
Rule #5 Visible stitches around the edges of your lapels (called pick-stitching) aren't necessarily a sign of a well-made garment anymore. However, they can be an attractive decorative flourish—as long as they're subtle. No contrast stitching! Rule #6 Some say you shouldn't cut the stitching in your jacket pockets, because putting objects in them will cause your jacket to lose its shape. Don't listen. It's pointless to have nonfunctional pockets, and a concert ticket or a business-card holder certainly won't do any damage. Rule #7 Some think three-pieces are stodgy, but when the waistcoat is cut close to the body and hemmed to the belt line, you'll look slim and modern. Rule #8 Your tie bar should never be wider than your tie. Rule #9 The difference between classic and cliché is often in the material. The timeless appeal of this gray suit begins with its super-luxe cashmere wool. Rule #10 Always unfasten your jacket buttons when you sit. No exceptions. Rule #11 Never fasten the bottom button of a doublebreasted jacket (unless it has only a single row of buttons). Rule #12 Avoid over-accessorizing. If you're already wearing a pocket square and a tie bar, you'll want to reconsider that clever lapel pin. Rule #13 When wearing corduroy, steer clear of fusty wide wales, but don't go so narrow that the material starts to look like velvet. Rule #14 A dark, patterned pocket square provides a welcome visual anchor to a light-colored suit. Rule #15 When it comes in a sandy tan rather than the usual rust or chocolate brown, this cold-weather suit gets a dose of sunny energy. Rule #16 Save the bulky shock-resistant sports watch for the gym or your outdoor-adventure excursions. It has no place with a suit.
Rule #17 It's fine to flip up the collar of a casual cotton jacket, but when you're dressed more formally (say, in a black suit), you should always leave the collar down. Rule #18 When you go without a tie, it's best to keep your shirt collar on the smaller side. Rule #19 Call attention to special suit material—like this marled wool—by keeping your accessories to a minimum. Rule #20 Get a Uniform "Men do well when they find something that works for them and stick to it, rather than continually try to reinvent the wheel—one of our customers must have 20 double-breasted jackets in the same cut. If you establish your own sense of style, you don't
Improving Communication….Empowering Leaders
subject yourself to the vagaries of fashion." Rule #21 You Can't Beat English Tailoring "I definitely have friends who wear Italian-
"A suit jacket should come down to the first knuckle on your thumb. Too many people are cutting short jackets now, and they just make men look too heavy in the middle." Rule #24 Keep Your Cuff Buttons Buttoned "I think undoing the button on your cuff looks kind of naff. It doesn't signify quality anymore because there are plenty of working buttonholes done by machines." Rule #25 Go For Side Vents "Most of the suits being made on Savile Row have two vents because it's considered almost cheap work to do fewer. A jacket with one vent or no vents uses much less cloth, and it's much less sewing." Rule #26 Gray-Flannel Suits Always Look Good "They just work brilliantly with everything. They're elegant without being stuffy and look beautifully luxurious."
style suits, which are softer and have less structure. But I prefer English tailoring, which gives suits more shape and a welldefined shoulder. To me, it just looks sharper." Rule #22 Mind Your Silhouette "You can tell a good handmade suit by looking at it from 50 yards offâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it's about overall harmony and balance. The trousers should be slim, the shoulders narrow, the waist nipped." Rule #23 Don't Go Too Short
What to Look for Before You Buy Rule #27 When your jacket is buttoned, you should be able to fit a fist between your chest and the fabric-no more, no less. Rule #28 Before buying a suit online, try it on in a store first to make sure the shoulders fit, as sizing varies widely among brands. Rule #29 Your jacket sleeves should reveal about half an inch of shirt cuff. If they don't, try a short size instead-you could save yourself a trip to the tailor later on. Rule #30 Choose fabric according to how often you'll wear the suit. The most versatile option is a soft but durable wool like super 120 (a measure of yarn fineness; any higher is too delicate for daily use). Rule #31 Your pants should sit at your waist (not your hips). You should be able to fit one finger into the waistband comfortably.
Toastmasters Fatima Saleh and Dr. Amina Al Hajri with their CL ribbons The Toastmasters Club Mission
The mission of a Toastmasters Club is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every individual member has the opportunity to develop oral communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self-confidence and personal growth.
The Mission of Toastmasters International
Toastmasters International is the leading movement devoted to making effective oral communication a worldwide reality.
Through its member Clubs, Toastmasters International helps men and women learn the arts of speaking, listening and thinking - vital skills that promote self-actualization, enhance leadership potential, foster human understanding, and contribute to the betterment of mankind. It is basic to this mission that Toastmasters International continually expand its worldwide network of member clubs, thereby offering ever-greater numbers of people the opportunity to benefit from its program.
The Vision of Toastmasters
Toastmasters International empowers people to achieve their full potential and realize their dreams. Through our member Clubs, people throughout the world can improve their communication and leadership skills, and find the courage to change.
Toastmasters International Values
Toastmasters International's Core Values are integrity, dedication to excellence, service to the member, and respect for the individual. These are values worthy of a great organisation, and we believe we should incorporate them as anchor points in every decision we make. Our core values provide us with a means of not only guiding but also evaluating our operations, our planning, and our vision for the future. HORIZON - Newsletter of Manama Toastmasters Club
Publisher: TM Rashid Ahmed Maymoon - Editor: TM Ameena Nathani - Proof Reader: TM Guraz Wankadia - Layout: TM Kishore Babu Facebook.com/manama.toastmasters twitter@MToastmasters50