OF AITKEN SPENCE
DIAMONDTIMES
CLUB NO: 2321352 | AREA I 4 | DIVISION I | DISTRICT 82
VOLUME 04 | ISSUE 02 | March 2025
WE MEET EVERY 2ND AND 4TH THURSDAY OF THE MONTH | 5:30PM TO 7:30 PM | HEXAGON BOARDROOM AT AITKEN SPENCE TOWER II | 315, VAUXHALL STREET, COLOMBO 00200, SRI LANKA
TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL
Toastmasters: A Journey of Growth, Leadership, and Excellence
Explaining Toastmasters to a non-Toastmaster is one of the most difficult things we do. Even though we train ourselves to be masters of communication, most people quickly lose interest or start looking at us funny when we say that we speak a lot in our meetings and that we clap a lot
The Origins of Toastmasters
Toastmasters International was founded in 1924 by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, a visionary who believed in empowering individuals through the art of public speaking. The first Toastmasters meeting took place at the YMCA in Santa Ana, California, with a small group of individuals eager to improve their speaking and leadership skills What began as a small club has since evolved into a global organization with over 300,000 members in more than 16,000 clubs across 145+ countries Toastmasters provides a structured yet flexible learning environment where members develop skills in public speaking, communication, and leadership all through practice, feedback, and mentorship. The organization is built upon four core values: Integrity, Service, Respect, and Excellence, which guide its mission of helping individuals become more effective communicators and leaders
Why Is Toastmasters So Appealing?
So why do we find Toastmasters so appealing? Because you have to be a part of it to truly understand what it is. You have to put in the work and push your limits to witness the transformation over time. As we all know, success is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, energy, and practice to see substantial growth in anything. This statement is the forthright affirmation of a Toastmaster because good things take time Only when you attend a meeting, take on a role, and if you’re feeling even more ambitious step into a leadership position, do you truly experience how your life can be transformed through waves of excellence and service in a voluntary organization.
The Transformational Impact of Toastmasters
Toastmasters is more than just a public speaking club it is a community that fosters growth and confidence. Here, we learn to evaluate with kindness, judge without prejudice, and share our knowledge without holding back It is a place where failure is not the end, but a stepping stone to success
Members gain valuable critical thinking skills, the ability to express ideas clearly, and the confidence to lead, whether in professional or personal settings. The lessons learned in Toastmasters extend beyond the club meetings they influence careers, personal relationships, and even the way we perceive and overcome challenges
Through prepared speeches, impromptu Table Topics, and constructive evaluations, members sharpen their skills and embrace the power of effective communication More importantly, Toastmasters nurtures leaders people who are not just great speakers but also mentors, motivators, and change-makers.
A Platform for Lifelong Growth
Toastmasters is not just about public speaking it is about self-improvement and continuous learning Whether you are a seasoned professional, a student, an entrepreneur, or someone simply looking to gain confidence, Toastmasters provides a platform to explore, challenge, and better yourself every day
At the heart of it all, Toastmasters is about helping individuals realize their potential. It teaches us that growth comes from stepping outside our comfort zones, and that true leadership is about serving others while striving for excellence
So, if you ever wonder why Toastmasters matters just step into a meeting, take up a role, and see for yourself You may just find yourself on a journey of transformation, one speech at a time
AitkenSpenceToastmasters
The Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club (ASTMC) was chartered in March 2012 as a corporate club under District 82, with TM Azam Bakeer Markar serving as its inaugural president In its very first year, the club earned the prestigious Golden Gavel award from District 82, followed by the Golden Gavel Plus honor the next year an achievement accomplished by only a few clubs during their charter year
Since 2013, ASTMC has consistently upheld its reputation by earning the President’s Distinguished Club status every year, the highest recognition in the Toastmasters fraternity This year was no exception, as the club once again achieved President’s Distinguished status, continuing the tradition since its inauguration.
This year, The club has already achieved the President’s Distinguished Club status, upholding the standard set since the charter of the club. Furthermore, the Smedley award, Talk Up award and the Duo Star Award are some of the awards the club has achieved. Not stopping there, two members have mananged to secure Triple Crown awards as well
ASTMC has also made a strong mark in speech contests, with a contestant representing the club in the Humorous Speech Contest at Division I and the same member achieving 2nd Runnerup in the Table Topics Contest of Division I, District 82 for the year 2024/2025.
Beyond awards and competitions, the club has fostered a spirit of collaboration and growth by hosting three joint meetings so far this year Moreover, it has welcomed more than a dozen visitors throughout its meetings, further strengthening its outreach and impact.
President’s Message
A YEAR OF ACCOLADES AND GROWTH
As the current president of the Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club, it is an honour to share the highlights from the second newsletter edition of this remarkable year. Together, we've achieved milestones that have brought immense pride and joy to our club.
This year has been one filled with accolades and growth. From winning prestigious awards such as the Smedley Award, Talk Up Award, and Duo Club Award, to being eligible for the coveted President’s Distinguished Club Award, our club has shone bright.
g membership base above 25 munity we have nurtured.
Our club also flourished with exciting collaborations, including joint meetings with the Saturday Circle Toastmasters Club, Panadura Toastmasters Club, and Innovative Minds Toastmasters Club. Adding more flair to our meetings, we embraced vibrant themes such as Christmas, Thaipongal, Valentine's Day, and Women's Day. The presence of visiting Toastmasters from various clubs frequently enriched our sessions, fostering an environment of shared learning and inspiration.
As the home club of our esteemed Area Director, TM Zaharine Hameen, we owe immense gratitude for her unwavering support and guidance, which have been instrumental in steering us toward excellence. Additionally, a special mention goes to our Past President, TM Rizmika Dahilan, whose invaluable experience and commitment continue to uphold the club's goals and standards.
Our club’s spirited and enthusiastic EXCO members and our teamwork have been the cornerstone of our success, making Aitken Spence Toastmasters a shining beacon of inspiration. I would also like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to TM Praneeth Vitharana for his impressive achievement as the 2nd Runner-Up in the Table Topics Contest at the Division Level.
Such accomplishments highlight the dedication and talent of our members.
To all those who took on the challenge of being a Toastmaster, I offer my best wishes as you continue this transformative journey to become better leaders, communicators, and inspirers. Let us celebrate this year's achievements and look ahead with the same passion and commitment that define our Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club.
TM Supun Jayawardane President
Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club 2024/2025
Editor’s Message
AN OPPORTUNITY FOR TRANSCENDENCE
For anyone who knows about being the Vice President Public Relations (VPPR) in a Toastmasters club, you know it is a job that requires working with deadlines, having exceptional attention to detail, being creative, and staying updated every single moment all while performing your usual club duties as well Taking up this role in my club while holding a full-time position at Aitken Spence was actually a
o a rhythm with s in delegation, an bring to the
"After a year of unwavering dedication as VPPR, I realized that my work has the power to inspire and connect with people on a deeper level, making it one of the most fulfilling experiences one can ask for."
ortunity to learn a familiarize myself letely new to me. of our videos was p 5 Videos of the newsletter was 20 Newsletters of 2.
been instrumental essional growth, skills to excel in while uncovering y capabilities eading.
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VP Education’s Message
LEADERSHIP BEYOND RESPONSIBILITY
Leadership is often defined by roles, responsibilities, and tasks. But true leadership extends far beyond a title or a checklist it is about influence, impact, and inspiration. At Aitken Spence Toastmasters, we don’t just develop speakers; we cultivate leaders who embrace challenges, uplift others, and drive meaningful change.
This quarter has been a testament to the power of leadership beyond responsibility From insightful speeches to engaging table topics, each of you has demonstrated the courage to step forward, share your voice, and support one another’s growth. Whether mentoring a fellow member, taking on a new role, or simply offering words of encouragement, every effort strengthens our club and its vision.
“At Aitken Spence Toastmasters, we don’t just develop speakers; we cultivate leaders”
As we continue this journey, I encourage you to push boundaries, seek new learning opportunities, and lead with authenticity. Leadership is not just about what we do it’s about the legacy we leave behind Let’s keep inspiring, growing, and redefining leadership together Looking forward to another quarter of learning and transformation!
TM Thilini Edirisinghe Vice President - Education
Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club 2024/2025
Praneeth Vitharana
Wathsala Sanjeewani
AN ENCOUNTER WITH A HIGHFLIER!
As the Area Director of Area 1-4 for the year 2023/2024, a new baby I got to take care of was the Aitken Spence Toastmasters club. But little did I know that it had greater potential within, which even took me through a roller coaster ride. Understanding the club dynamics, and guiding a set of professionals who had been thriving in their career ladders pushed me out of my comfort zone.
Including the live wires of the club last year, TM Zaharine, TM Rizmika, TM Hasantha, TM Supun each member coming from different divisions in the organizations not only spread the voice across the divisions but successfully ended a difficult era of the club. The most hospitable ever, and the most cheerful ever, these toastmasters speaking their hearts out created the best kind of Thursdays Through every barrier they broke, new leaders were nurtured. I loved how they wholeheartedly offered their talents in various aspects, may it be toastmasters related or not, to others
“The A, B and C of this club’s secret of success as I see”
Adaptation - Eager to learn- Quickly bridged the technical knowledge gap
Building up - Correctly marketed how to use that dollar to color our lives
Commitment - Gave 100% to that leadership role once accepted
As another year is going to complete under a new leadership, together they have unlocked the opportunities to greater stages for their speakers and bigger titles for their leaders I believe now they are more equipped than ever to reach the whole of AITKEN SPENCE and let them feel the impact of communication and leadership
My inner self said to me, this club is definitely going to be a highflier And I said to them “You are stronger than you think, Trust me”. And at the end of the year it was well manifested when they achieved “Presidents Distinguished” status and even the Golden Club award after several years with above “A,B,C” s
And this urge is to the other highfliers at Aitken Spence, who still didn’t get to step on to this beautiful platform, “You are much stronger than you think, trust me!.
TM Chandula Jithmi Past Area Director
Area 4 | Division I District 82
Panadura Toastmasters Club with
The wonderful members of Panadura Toastmasters visited Aitken Spence Toastmasters to celebrate Christmas in style and wrap up the meetings for 2024 in true festive spirit.
The meeting was a blend of inspiring speeches, a dynamic Toastmaster of the Day, insightful evaluations, and a shared sense of enthusiasm, joy, and creativity. Both clubs were privileged to have Club Growth Director, DTM Bhathiya Hettiarachchi, graced the occasion with his presence and add value to this one-of-a-kind gathering an event that will remain a cherished memory in the hearts and minds of members from both clubs. “A Toastmasters Meeting should have three things........ Leaning, Laughter and Creativity. This meeting is a perfect combination of all three.....”
- DTM Bhathiya Hettiarachchi -
R E A C H I N G O U T T O T H E
C O M M U N I T Y
Let the world know
As an organization with more than 100 subsidiaries, we have a lot of potential members within our organization. Even though most of them have heard of Toastmasters, they do not what it is all about and what impact can it bring to their lives
The lunch room of Aitken Spence Tower 2 is filled with life at lunchtime when employees from all tiers of the hierarchy come to enjoy a well-earned lunch break and engage in friendly conversations over their midday meal
This year, on the 24th of December 2025, we organized our let the world know event to showcase what Toastmasters is all about to our world, which is the corporate society at Aitken Spence PLC
A lot of people were interested to see what toastmasters was all about. To build up the hype, there was a presistant flyer campaign conducted throughout the company official communication channels and more than 50 people signed up to comevisit the club and see what it was all about Senior members and new members alike contributed time for this and at the end of the day, we had a very successful Let The World Know event under our belt!
TIPS FOR REACHING EXCELLENCE
Given that Toastmasters provides a positive learning environment, we thought of compiling a list of best practices and tips that can help to make a difference.
Assign specific exco members to train potential new members for specific roles. For example, VP Membership handling the timer and Ah counter mentoring would give them a chance to talk to a lot of potential new members because those are the roles handled by the new members when the join the meetings as guests. For advanced roles like grammarian and General evaluator could be handled by the President, VP Education or senior members.
Do not stop by getting just one evaluation from just one evaluator.
After doing a speech, meet some other members and ask for an evaluation for the speech you just did. Anyone would be happy to give feedback and more feedback means better room for improvement. If you are contesting, inofrm a few members to evaluate you ahead of time and get their feedback later.
Visit other clubs and volunteer your time
Visiting other Toastmasters clubs is a great way to make new connections and to experience a meeting in a different perspective. Collaborate with them in their SpeechCrafters or YLPs. Doing this will open up a huge number of opportunities for your growth in a number of avenues.
TMOD is the ultimate time keeper
Most of us forget that the TMOD has a far more crucial role in a meeting other than driving the meeting. The TMOD should be keeping track of the time and proceedings, and can decide to shorten or omit items from the agenda; and entertainment item or a few table topics so that the meeting runs on time.
Quality and Quantity of speeches
If members are eagerly volunteering for speeches, that is always a good thing. However, it is also important to keep track of the quality fo their speeches too. The VP Education can plan get feedback from speakers on their planned educational goals and align that with the club succession plan so that speakers can deliver well researched and prepared speeches as well as completing the club educational goals.
Technology
is a virtue
Use technology to automate repetitive tasks in a Toastmasters environment. One of the prime examples is that recording frequent issues for new members like how to complete a project in pathways, how to find an evaluation resource, how to adhere to Brand guidelines, etc and when someone has trouble in such cases, sharing the recordings. This will save time and make things much more efficient and effective.
FROM WALLFLOWER TO CONFIDENT LEADER: MY TOASTMASTERS JOURNEY
There was a time when the mere thought of speaking in front of a group would send shivers down my spine I was the quiet observer in meetings, the person who hesitated to voice opinions, and someone who would rather blend into the background than stand in the spotlight That all changed when I joined Toastmasters.
“SPEAKING IS NOT ABOUT PERFECTION, IT’S ABOUT CONNECTION”
Breaking Out of My Shell
We were just coming out of the pandemic, when I saw the flyer inviting to join Aitken Spence TMC It was a fresh change to the dull repetition of routine of working from home. My first meeting was online. Since then, I have never been offline from Toastmasters. While listening to the inspiring toastmasters in our club, I was continuously pushed to go up and do it That sense of support gave me the courage to return the following week I faced my first challenge – the ‘Ice Breaker’ speech It was nerve-wracking, but as I spoke about myself, I felt an unexpected connection with my audience Their smiles and nods made me realize that speaking wasn’t about perfection, it was about connection. I. With each speech I delivered, my confidence grew. I learned to organize my thoughts, use vocal variety, and incorporate body language effectively Evaluations and feedback from our fellow toastmasters were encouraging and positive
“I FOUND MY VOICE NOT JUST IN SPEECHES BUT ALSO IN DECISION-MAKING AND TEAM COLLABORATION”
Leadership Transformation
Beyond public speaking, Toastmasters introduced me to leadership I took on small roles, such as a timer and grammarian, before progressing to larger responsibilities like Toastmaster of the Day, Exco member and eventually the Club President These experiences honed my ability to lead meetings, mentor others and handle unexpected challenges with grace. I found my voice not just in speeches boration. From an onlooker from sidelines, I went on to yond
tended far beyond the club. In my professional life, I arted leading discussions, delivering impactful with industry professionals The transformation was rsations and motivated my team
A Lifelong Journey
Toastmasters didn’t just teach me how to speak it taught me how to lead. The journey from a hesitant wallflower to a confident leader was not overnight, but it was worth every step Today, I encourage others who fear to take that first step With practice, support, and determination, transformation is possible for anyone. Best thing about being an Aitken Spence Toastmaster is that you have abundant opportunities to excel yourself Afterall, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink" If you’re standing on the sidelines, unsure whether you belong in the spotlight, I urge you to step forward Toastmasters might just be the catalyst that unlocks your potential, as it did for me.
TM RIZMIKA DAHILAN PAST PRESIDENT OF AITKEN
SPENCE TMC
THOUGHTS OF OUR NEW MEMBERS
Joining Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club was a decision I made after attending as a guest a few weeks ago. I was impressed by the supportive and engaging environment where people of all skill levels are encouraged to grow I decided to become a member because I wanted to enhance my public speaking, communication and leadership abilities in a supportive and engaging environment.
Toastmasters provides a fantastic platform to practice speaking in front of an audience, receive valuable feedback, and build confidence The benefits include personal growth, better networking opportunities, and gaining skills that will not only help in professional settings but in all aspects of life.
Joining the Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club has been a rewarding experience for me as I look to enhance my public speaking and leadership skills. I first heard about the toastmasters club through company emails The club provides a nurturing environment where I can confidently express myself, receive constructive feedback, and develop my communication abilities. Being part of this community not only helps build self-confidence but also fosters personal growth through regular practice and peer support It's a fantastic opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with professionals from various backgrounds.
Joining the Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club has been a great experience. It is a friendly and supportive place to improve public speaking and leadership skills The members are welcoming, and their feedback helps me grow Each session is a chance to learn and gain confidence. I enjoy the positive atmosphere and the opportunity to develop my communication skills It’s a great platform for self-improvement, and I look forward to learning more and becoming a better speaker with my fellow members.
Joining Aitken Spence Toastmasters has been an inspiring journey in enhancing my public speaking and leadership skills The supportive environment, constructive feedback, and engaging sessions have boosted my confidence and communication abilities. It’s a great platform for personal growth, learning, and networking with professionals from diverse backgrounds Together, we grow, lead, and inspire!
TM Sanara Alahakoon
TM Kaushani Nirupadee
TM Dhananjaya Wijegunawardhana
TM Sachin Liyanage
DivisionConference
“IGNITEGROWTH”
Any competition above a Toastmasters Club competition level has something interesting and challenging about the contestants All of them are already winners In a division conference, all contestants are already two-time winners in their respective clubs and areas making it a battle of winners The best the clubs and the areas have to offer. And to make the intensity somewhat more fierce, only one person elevates to the next level
The beauty of this contest is that most of the people who come to the conference are not contestants. The majority of the participants are people who come there to support their fellow club members, contest officials and guests Toastmasters come to Division conferences to witness the best of the best in their element doing great speeches and how these contestants use their wit and wisdom to conquer the impromptu speaking challenge
TM Praneeth Vitharana Represented the club in the Table Topics Contest and went head to head with seasoned contestants for the win It was his first time contesting in a TT contest in which led to him being in the Division stage The topic was “Climb, but look down” and he managed to secure the Second Runnerup position among the best of Division I.
We go to Division conferences not merely to compete. But to learn, grow and network with the greatest and the most resilient members of our fraternity. It is not at all about winning or losing, it is all about making an impact!
Article by: TM Praneeth Vitharana, VPPR Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club
Voyages of A Travelling Toastmaster
Engaging in Toastmasters activities can mean different things to different members of this thriving, collaborative community. For me, one of the most prominent and enlightening ways to do that was by visiting other clubs and collaborating in various activities they conduct throughout the Toastmasters year
During this year, I made it my mission to visit as many clubs as I could and support, assist, and collaborate with their activities to the best of my ability. What I experienced and learned was extraordinary, and I think each and every Toastmaster, whether new or seasoned, should visit clubs outside their own to see what the community has to offer.
I had the honor of not only visiting Serendib Toastmasters Club, but also helping out with their YLPs on a regular basis. The lovely people at this club will always hold a special place in my heart as the first-ever club I visited outside my own. Then, I had the pleasure of meeting the energetic gentlemen at Awakening Toastmasters Club, who took the concept of spirited meetings to a new level. Visiting Startup Colombo Toastmasters Club was a unique experience because I had met and got to know most of them as I helped out with their YLPs a lot before even attending their meeting for the first time An accidental happenstance allowed me to visit the University of Colombo Toastmasters’ Christmas meeting, where I had an unforgettable time with this amazing club full of smart, dedicated members Going to Saturday Circle Toastmasters, who had joined us in a wonderful joint meeting led me to meet the wonderful people at Central Colombo Toastmasters, who later invited me to be an evaluator at their incredible speech marathon.
All the people I met were different in demographics, culture, profession, walk of life, and many other aspects, but all of them were united and single-minded when it came to bearing the ‘TM’ title
“The amazing people I met and the interactions I had were invaluable, and I hardly think that a similar experience can ever be had in any other setting”
I learned that each club, regardless of whether it is a community club or a corporate club, has its own strengths and weaknesses. However, all of them have a lot to offer in their own right Each of them taught me a new lesson or more regarding all aspects of being a Toastmaster and in terms of being an effective communicator and leader. They shared stories of their victories and struggles, giving me a perspective that can only be described as an otherworldly interaction because I was experiencing things both internally and externally at the same time. I was a member of my own club, but I was also gaining insights from members of other clubs.
Just make time in your busy schedule to visit another Toastmasters Club every once in a while and witness the vibrancy and the change of perspective the community can bring into your life The networking you gain will be an added bonus After all, it is the sense of community and collaboration that makes it a privilege to be a part of this international phenomenon Toastmasters International.
Thoughts of Visitors who graced our meetings
During my visit to Aitken Spence Toastmasters, I saw a club full of enthusiastic members eager to learn and grow their communication skills! Loved the creative MOT session led by TM Zaharinie and the meticulous meeting prep This club is in great hands – and I'm super excited to see where they go from here!
TM Dulaj Prabhasaha | President - University of Colombo TMC
As I truly believe, Toastmastering is not only for development but also for making friends in different environments. The friendly, welcoming atmosphere throughout the meeting at Aitken Spence made me happy, and the enthusiastic members who took up the challenge of running a corporate club despite their busy working schedules inspired me to give my fullest support to the future Toastmasters in the country.
The Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club exemplifies excellence, driven by members with a profound passion for communication and leadership Panadura Toastmasters was honored to collaborate in a remarkable themed meeting, conducted purely out of enthusiasm The warm welcome from Aitken Spence Toastmasters reaffirmed the strong and enduring bond between our clubs, fostering growth and camaraderie.
From the minute I entered the meeting room, it was filled with positive energy and ethusiam which was clearly visible Throughout the meeting the corperate dynamics were shown starting from the round robin session to the speeches and evaluations. Not only their they engage with the members physically, they go to the extent of digital space to make the members who are not able to join be part of the Aiken Spence Toastmasters family. The bond which I witnessed from each member to not back down instead help to their maximum capacity is what truely makes them unique I quite enjoyed my time there due to their positive attitude and engagement. Wishing Aitken Spence Toastmasters Club all the best in their future endevours!
Sachira
TM Malindu Batheegama | President - Panadura TMC
TM Don Dushmantha | President - HNB TMC
TM
Edirisinghe | Vice President Education - Rajagiriya TMC
TM Sachira
TM Malindu
TM Dushmantha
TM Dulaj
Flyer Parade
M e m o r y L a n e M e m o r y L a n e M e m o r y L a n e
“We learn best in moments of enjoyment.”
“The first result of speech training is selfdiscovery.”
“While most of us may have entered Toastmasters to learn to make speeches, that benefit is but the beginning of the good which may come to us and the good which we may do for mankind”
“Understanding comes through communication, and through communication we find the way to peace.”
Quotes from Dr.Ralph C. Smedley
“The past prepares us to meet the challenges of the future.”
“Toastmasters is based on belief in the individual. … Many organizations ask the individual to subordinate himself to the group. Ours is the only organization I know that is dedicated to the individual”
“Your Toastmasters club is your laboratory in which to try experiments in better communication.”he benefit.”
“Learning to give a speech is important, but almost equally so is learning to listen critically, analytically, and then to give the speaker the benefit.”