The Central Point: Volume 4 | Issue 1

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL MISSION To empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL ENVISIONED FUTURE To be the first-choice provider of dynamic, high-value, experiential communication and leadership skills development”

DISTRICT 82 MISSION To build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence

THE CLUB MISSION We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth

OUR CORE VALUES I N T E G R I T Y

R E S P E C T

S E R V I C E

E X C E L L E N C E

TABLE OF CONTENT

01

Get to Know Us

02

Club President’s Message

03

Greeting from Area, Division and District Officers

05

Taboo Talks, Joint Meetings

06

Guest Column

07

Champions’ Corner

08

Achievements

11

Exordium 4.0

14

New Initiatives by CCTMC

15

Member’s Article

17

What’s Next?

JOIN OUR MEETINGS! CCTMC meets every other Sunday at 3:45 PM. Our regular meeting location for physical meetings is at the Academy of Finance, Kollupitiya.

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Are you anxious to advance your career?

Do you want to expand your network?

Are you eager to make productive use of your weekends?

Are you looking for a new community that will allow you to grow?

At Central Colombo Toastmasters Club, we’ll give you the training of a lifetime, a wealth of inspiration, and a cohort of supporters to travel with you, side by side. With mentors, evaluators, speech projects, leadership training, fellow members, and friends in your corner, your skills will be fine-tuned, cultivated, and enhanced beyond belief.

The origin of our club dates back to February 2021 when we officially chartered as a Toastmasters Club under the leadership of Arshad Nizam, DTM as our Charter President.

Our club now constitutes a mix of engineers,

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business executives, consultants, corporate professionals, lecturers, teachers, entrepreneurs, undergraduates, photographers, musicians and many more.

Despite our relatively short history, our members have already made an impact at all levels of Toastmasters, and we are proud to say that our members include speakers who have made it all the way to the District stage and also leaders who have been supporting not only our club, but the entirety of District 82 of Toastmasters International.

This Issue of the Central Point will take you through our triumphs over the past few months – We hope that with every page flipped, you discover the magic that we create and find yourself falling into place with Central Colombo Toastmasters Club.

A meeting at Central Colombo Toastmasters Club is the perfect concoction of learning, networking and fun. It's an ambience of welcoming smiles and words of warmth.

The club has fostered a beautiful culture of supporting one another, which has elevated the standards of the club while inspiring young blood.

It's always a pleasure to visit to CCTMC as they will always ensure you feel like you belong.

Gihan Samarawickrama Vice President Membership 2024/25 Smedley Toastmasters Club

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FROM THE PEN OF THE PRESIDENT

THE EXCO

I am delighted to pen these words for Volume 4, Issue 1 of the Central Point. Having been chartered as a Toastmasters club in February 2021, Central Colombo Toastmasters Club has become a safe haven for its members to practice being vulnerable on a stage – to let their true colours show and to allow themselves to be embraced wholly by their fellow members. As one of the charter members in 2021, I remember having a wholesome, comforting feeling about the club – and I am happy to note that that feeling still prevails.

President Nishedha Indraratne

Almost 4 years later, CCTMC is thriving in all facets. We’ve produced a District Finalist and District Second Runner-Up, we’ve produced the Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year, we’ve produced Division Winners, Division Directors, Area Directors and Distinguished Toastmasters; we’ve also chartered a Gavel Club and continue to nurture young talent through our continuous Speechcraft Programs.

+94 71 693 6096 msbenaragama123@gmail.com

CCTMC has become a club where members, guests and guest Toastmasters gather to create ordinary magic every single day. We’re proud to be a frequent stop for many Toastmasters from other clubs looking for a change of scenery and to practice their skills. It is through this exposure that we learn the art of speaking, stage crafting, evaluating and so much more.

CCTMC has become Crazy Connected – and no matter where you come from, we have something for you!

+94 77 784 6668 nk.indraratne@gmail.com

Vice President - Education Divya De Saram +94 70 581 8426 divyaadesaram@gmail.com

Vice President - Membership Methsara Benaragama

Vice President - Public Relations Janith Jinadasa +94 77 181 9846 janithsahanaka@gmail.com

Secretary Harshani Karunathilake +94 71 351 3351 karunathilakeharshani@gmail.com

Treasurer Mrinali Xavier +94 71 351 3351 xmrinali@gmail.com

Sergeant-at-Arms Roshan Ekanayaka +94 76 225 8713 ekanayaka.awrt@gmail.com

Immediate Past President Lakalya De Silva TM Nishedha Indraratne Club President Central Colombo TMC

+94 71 983 8971 lakalyadesilva@gmail.com

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GREETING FROM THE DISTRICT DIRECTOR Dear Esteemed Members of Central Colombo TMC, I am delighted to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the publication of your 1st newsletter for the Toastmasters Year 2024/25.

You have maintained an impressive presence within District 82 over the years that I am happy to observe is getting stronger as time goes by. To better yourself as a speaker is a challenge, and every member at Central Colombo TMC has not only embarked on this challenging journey but has also shown remarkable perseverance in continuing it.

By taking on various roles within the club. such as serving as a meeting facilitator or evaluator, members gain valuable experience in organization, teamwork, and decision-making.

The unique equation between leadership and communication within Toastmasters is evident.

Effective leaders must communicate clearly. inspire others, and foster collaboration. Conversely, strong communicators often emerge as natural leaders. capable of guiding teams and influencing positive change.

Such significant endeavours demand unwavering commitment from members and excellent leadership. The leadership exemplified by Nishedha and her team, and the dedication shown by all members of the club are truly commendable. It is through your collective efforts and steadfast determination that District 82 continues to thrive. You also achieved the Smedley Award this year, contributing to District 82 being recognised for having the highest number of Smedley Award winning clubs in Toastmasters International. Beyond that, I am sure that every member – new and existing – continues to provide their unique contributions to forming the ethos of your club.

Your passion for our clubs mission and your dedication to excellence are evident in the pages of this newsletter. In today’s fast-paced world. effective communication and leadership skills are invaluable assets. Toastmasters International, a renowned organization dedicated to improving public speaking and leadership abilities, continues to make a significant impact on its members worldwide.

Beyond refining public speaking abilities, Toastmasters fosters leadership development.

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While celebrating what makes CCTMC a great club, let us also look inward and commit ourselves once again to furthering the goals of the club and of the organization that we call home.

Congratulations to everyone involved in making this publication possible. Your hard work and dedication are truly appreciated.

Ganga Fernando, DTM District Director, District 82, Toastmasters International

CCTMC, A POWDER-KEG OF ENERGY! I am honoured to write a few words for Central Colombo Toastmasters Club. As a dynamic club in “Brilliant Division B”, you have continued to grow from strength to strength during this Toastmasters year.

I admire your verve in the face of challenge and your upbeat, positive attitude in the face of the individual and club-level goals that are left to conquer. Congratulations on achieving the Smedley Award during this year and on spreading your wings beyond the club. I see many CCTMC members everywhere I turn, and with this, I see a quality of camaraderie – of a willingness to learn and grow, and to help others grow along with you that sets you apart.

TM Clive C. James Division Director Division B

“You have continued to give back to the community through Speechcrafts and your club meetings are a powder-keg of energy. I am proud to say that CCTMC is a part of Division B “ At this time, I want to remind you of the importance of having a clear vision, of identifying your priorities, of planning and focusing your energy of members’ growth and development, and of maintaining consistency in your every action. May you continue to be a haven for your members and a conducive environment for members to be themselves, to experiment with their speaking styles and to discover what true support it. This newsletter is proof that you go above and beyond – and I, for one, am waiting to see what you all do next. Congratulations, and best of luck for the future!

TM Lakalya De Silva Area Director Area B1

SUPPORTIVE, FUN & ACCOMPLISHED I’m beyond thrilled to pen this message to Central Point as Area Director for B1. In just over three years, Central Colombo Toastmasters Club has not only made its mark within the fraternity but has truly created waves with its unyielding energy and the supportive environment it offers to all its members.

Being a part of this inspiring community has been an honor for me, and I’ve witnessed firsthand how our club fosters personal and professional growth. It’s a space where challenges are embraced, skills are honed, and success stories are created. I invite each of you to take full advantage of this club that does everything to the dot while having fun. Step outside your comfort zone in the comforts of CCTMC.Try new things and new ways of doing things - push the boundaries of what you think you’re

capable of and CCTMC will be your greatest cheerleader. Every seemingly insignificant step (like playing the role of ah-counter or attempting a table topic) will make incremental changes in your journey to becoming the greatest version of yourself. I’m incredibly proud of the culture that makes CCTMC supportive, fun, and accomplished, and I wish you incredible success!

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TA B O O TALKS!

On the 9th of June, 2024, CCTMC set out to do something radical – something that had been on then-President TM Lakalya de Silva’s mind for a long time – a Taboo Meeting!

On this day, all bets were off as our members and guest Toastmasters tackled those topics that Toastmasters often veer away from – politics, religion and sex. The catch – to maintain respect for all people while approaching these topics in a non-incendiary way. Safe to say, CCTMC met that target and then some. The meeting was graced by several notable individuals in the Toastmasters fraternity, include DTM Sitha Kathirgamanathan, DTM Piyakara Jayaratne, DTM Mafaz Ifharm, DTM Gadjen Suryakumar, TM Yashodhara Hemachandra, TM Shani Goonesekera, TM Milhana Anver and more.

Things did get controversial – but at every turn, the sensitivity of the audience was respected.

It took a lot of guts for our members to speak out about those taboo topics, but the way they were tackled taught us all a little bit about approaching sensitive topics with care. TMOD Nishedha took excellent control of the meeting, and several of our members played new roles for the first time and received high praise!

JOINT MEETINGS In our first joint meeting for the term, CCTMC joined hands with Smedley Toastmasters Club to conduct a meeting under the theme “Thanksgiving” and the meeting was nothing short of delicious! As the aroma of Lakalya’s homemade food wafted through the air, speakers and roleplayers dazzled the audience with their meticulously planned presentations. The Toastmaster of the Day Lakalya brought both clubs together with a toast that celebrated the legacy of Toastmasters and the union of our two clubs. We were pleasantly surprised to notice just how much both clubs had in common!

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In our second joint meeting for the term, CCTMC collaborated with Ralph Toastmasters Club to bring Halloween spirits (albeit a little late in the calendar year) to life! Each club showcased its talents with interesting speeches, great table topics and great approaches to their meeting roles and responsibilities! There were close to 40 people in attendance – and the TMOD Praveen Nanayakkara truly had the audience in a Halloween trance from beginning to end. The meeting was capped off with some delicious snacks and some red punch to keep the theme going.

GUEST COLUMN A TOASTMASTER’S GUIDE TO LIFE...

Life is like a rainbow – it’s a multi coloured, splendid thing in which the joy of sunshine and the tears of rainfall are reflected equally.

When we see the whole picture of the sky with a rainbow, we can appreciate its beauty.

Similarly, the real joy of life is not simply when everything goes our way, because no matter what we do, no matter what we gain, things will not always go our way. The only constant thing in this entire creation is change.

Everything changes. Our bodies are constantly changing; there’s birth and there’s death, there’s victory and there’s defeat.

We face success and failure, happiness and distress, pleasure and pain, we feel honour and we feel dishonour, we are healthy and we get sick with disease. All of this change proves that we cannot change the nature of our environment.

Accept the criticism, improve yourself, believe in yourself and do not deviate from your path. Some people will always try to stop you - you need to find the strength to get past them. People will always have opinions, and while you can always consider someone’s opinion, you lose your life if you let that opinion control you.

Most of the people make decisions of their life based upon what others will think of them. When we do anything just to please or prove others, we do not do it with joy.

Live your life guided by your thoughtful self.

Listen and learn from others but do not make decisions simply based on not being judged by others. Think about what is right for you and what makes you happy.

“It is your life. Do not let others stop you from living the you want.”

TM N. Jenani Secretary Yarl Paady Toastmasters Club

But - we can change our consciousness; we can find that foundation within ourselves and then build everything in our life on that foundation – a foundation of compassion rather than envy, arrogance and greed. When we have that compassion within our hearts it becomes the most powerful motivating force to excel in whatever we do because we have a higher purpose.

There are times in life when we do our best, but people still find fault with us. Their words or behaviour can be so distressing that we start to doubt ourselves and feel demotivated. We need remember that no matter how maligning the feedback might be, we shouldn’t let it stop us from moving forward.

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CHAMPIONS’ In conversation with TM Praveen Nanayakkara He’s often the life of the party, and he has come to personify the light-hearted yet passionate nature of a CCTMC meeting. He was this club’s charter Vice President Membership, Past President and the Past Area Director of Area B2. He has risen to the top of the Evaluations game in spectacular fashion – and at the Division B Evaluation Speech Contest held on the 10th of November, he emerged Champion.

What makes this champion speaker tick? We were on a mission to find out when we sat TM Praveen down for an interview.

Q: What inspired you to become a

Toastmaster?

I saw a toastmaster performing a contest speech at a club and I wanted to be that good at articulating myself. The way they had the words, the gestures, the movement to express themselves all figured out, truly inspired me.

I knew I wanted to be like that person – and hopefully, I’ve reached that point now.

Q: What were the thoughts running through

your head when you heard the announcement that you were set to take on the District Semi-Finals stage this year?

It was surreal. Many people might not believe it but I really didn’t expect it. The truth is evaluations were never my strength. But through this competition I realised that becoming a champion evaluator definitely sets in a discipline and builds a unique skillset that definitely comes in handy on your walk to becoming a champion speaker. And when I heard my name as winner I know I’m closer to becoming a champion speaker than I have ever been.

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CORNER

Q: You have taken up a plethora of leader-

ship positions within TI. What was your secret to balancing that and your corporate life while being a champion speaker-in-training?

Having an excellent support system. If you are taking leadership, you have to surround yourself with a team you trust and have your back.

If it’s competitive speaking, you need to surround yourself with folks who will support you and who will call you out when you are not doing right.

Your team is your secret tool.

Q: What were the biggest challenges you

faced on your journey to the being a competent evaluator?

Twofold: time management and an evaluator mindset. In the quest to give the best feedback, we forget that we can’t spend hours on an evaluation. But the time factor really helps you figure out the best points to share with a speaker.

The evaluator mindset is one where you forget competition and what you get out of it and really focus on your speaker. How can you share what is best for the speaker is a question that will really help you stay on track.

Q: What is your favorite

thing about CCTMC and how has CCTMC helped you?

Easy. The people. When I won First Runner Up at the Area B1 Contest this time, the amount of members who

Factors speakers should consider when preparing for a contest: • Preparation, preparation, preparation!

• Prepare yourself for not achieving what you set out to achieve.

• Prepare yourself for some hard truths about yourself as a speaker.

• Prepare your speech material to a point where it is second nature.

• Patience is very important. Competing is a process. Every step makes you wiser and very often you will have moments of realization that change who you are as a speaker.

• Try to go for a few judging opportunities before you start competing, to understand the judging process and ballots for each competition. This is still very underrated in my opinion.

• Trust the process because what doesn’t kill you can only make you stronger, and since I haven’t heard or seen any Toastmasters die on stage yet, safe to say that you can only get stronger with every mistake or misstep.

stepped up to assist me with my training and the love and support that the club showed me was overwhelming. When I walked onto the division stage, the aisles were filled with the cheers and encouragements of my club’s members. This is how CCTMC helped me. That support is what matters most.

Q: What would you say to our new members

who are looking forward to contesting soon?

You are in for a treat! Competing is an amazing opportunity for you to find out who you are as a speaker. It will push you past the limits you thought you had. And the more time you spend on stage, the more comfortable you become, and inadvertently, it will fuel up your confidence. Enjoy the process and always have the most possible fun.

Interviewed by: TM Sajani Jayathma.

Sajani is an author, undergraduate and researcher in the fields of psychology, law and environmental conservation.

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OUR BIG MOMENTS

Here are some of our biggest moments that made an impact.

CCTMC Wins the Smedley Award!

A Toastmasters club wins this award for adding 5 new, dual or reinstated members to its membership between the 1st of August and the 30th of September.

Certified Golden!

At Ovation 2024, CCTMC received the coveted Golden Club Award, which is given to clubs that manage to achieve President’s Distinguished status within a Toastmasters year. CCTMC is golden thanks to its dedicated members and leaders!

A District Finalist and Second Runner Up!

At Ovation 2024, CCTMC bore witness to one of its members rising up the ranks of speakers and making it all the way to the District 82 Finals of the International Speech Contest for 203/24! Our Champion Lakalya also took home the Second Runner-up Trophy at the District 82 Table Topics Speech Contest for 2023/24.

Another Feather in his Cap!

CCTMC’s very own DTM Kasun Ilangaratne was recognized at Ovation 2024 as the Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year, while serving as the head of the Digital Task Force for the event. He also took on his newest challenge – becoming Division Director of Division G for 2024/25!

A Division Champion in the House!

CCTMC’s evaluation powerhouse TM Praveen Nanayakkara walked away with the Division B Championship in Evaluation Speech on the 10th of November 2024. Weeks of hard work and practice paid off - and CCTMC will be right by Praveen’s side as he prepares for the District Semi Finals!

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A H . . . ....

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HOW TO MAKE USE OF AN AH COUNTER As a speaker, it’s easy to get lost in your words and overlook the crutch sounds or filler words that slip into your speech. Phrases like “um,”“ah,” and “you know” can subtly creep in without you realising, making your speech less polished and effective. That’s where the role of the Ah Counter becomes invaluable. This individual helps you track these sounds and provides vital feedback for improving your speaking habits.

When you’re actively speaking, you’re focused on delivering your message, not necessarily on how you sound. The Ah Counter, however, is an essential observer who catches those filler words that you may not notice. Their job is to stay alert and record every instance of a crutch word or sound, ensuring that your speech is as smooth and impactful as possible. This role requires full attention and concentration. It’s not easy, but it’s crucial for your development as a speaker.

you tend to use filler words, you can proactively work to eliminate them. Practicing mindfulness and pacing your speech can help, as can slowing down and thinking about your next point before speaking. With time and attention, you can reduce the frequency of these crutch words, improving both your delivery and overall communication skills.

Remember, the Ah Counter is not just there to highlight your mistakes—they are an essential tool for your growth. By working closely with them and using their feedback, you can take significant strides toward becoming a more effective and polished speaker. Keep tracking your progress and make every speech an opportunity to improve!

A H

To maximise the benefit of the Ah Counter’s observations, make it a point to ask them for detailed feedback on your speech. Keep track of their notes, and review how often you use filler sounds. With every speech you deliver, you can actively work on reducing your Ah Count. This consistent effort will result in improved clarity and confidence over time.

An effective way to further improve is to engage with the Ah Counter directly. You can ask them to pay special attention to areas where you’re most prone to using fillers—whether it’s at the beginning of your sentences, during pauses, or at the end. By identifying these patterns, you can target those specific areas for improvement in future speeches.

Once you become aware of where and when

And – if you’re ever playing the role, remember that what you do doesn’t just help you with improving your active listening skills, it also helps every single person who sets foot on that stage to polish their speaking skills!

TM Divya de Saram Vice President – Education 2024/25 Central Colombo Toastmasters Club

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EXORDIUM 4.0 The 4th Club Officer Installation Ceremony of the Central Colombo Toastmasters Club was held on Sunday, the 04th of August 2024, at the Tulip Hall, BMICH. The event was graced by the District Director of District 82 of Toastmasters International DTM Ganga Fernando as Chief Guest, and by Ms. Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson as Keynote Speaker and Guest of Honour. The event was also graced by DTM Srianthie Salgado, Past District Director, DTM Sitha Kathirgamanathan, Administration Manager D82, TM Vaugn Ernst, Finance Manager D82, DTM Tharaka Amarasena, Chief Judge D82, TM Clive C James, Division Director, Division B (who also served as Inducting Officer), TM Lakalya de Silva, Immediate Past President of CCTMC and current Area Director for Area B1 (who also served as Installing Officer) and many more Toastmasters from other clubs.

The ceremony commenced with the vibrant voices of our MCs – TM Praveen Nanayyakara and TM Sajani Jayathma. Following the traditional lighting of the oil lamp by several dignitaries and the singing of the national anthem, the show truly kicked off with the Incoming Secretary TM Harshani Karunathilake’s welcome address. Soon after, the audience was

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taken back in time through the magnificent year that the Central Colombo Toastmasters Club experienced in 2023/2024, thanks to a video recap that generated some laughs, some nostalgic sighs and many reminiscent smiles.

The Outgoing President of the club TM Lakalya de Silva kicked off the next segment for the evening with a speech littered with anecdotes and with heartfelt appreciations for her Executive Committee members and to the dignitaries and members of District 82 of Toastmasters International. TM Clive James took the stage soon after to conduct the New Member Induction Ceremony; eight new Toastmasters were officiated into the organisation in grand style, thanks to TM Clive James’ encouraging demeanour and humour. Our Keynote Speaker Kasturi Chellaraja Wilson capped off the first half of the event with a speech that highlight-

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CCTMC’S INSTALLATION CEREMONY ed what leadership skills truly are, and what transforms individuals into great achievers; she emphasised the importance of being comfortable in your own skin and of being hardworking and passionate.

The second half of the event was ushered in with an entertainment item that was performed

by CCTMC’s very own, very musical members.

A guitar was played, a keyboard was struck and songs were sung by both the performers and the audience. District 82’s Club Growth Director DTM Ganga Fernando followed with a speech that highlighted Toastmaster International’s principles and shared an original poem as guidance for the Incoming President. After DTM Ganga’s wise words, Area Director of Area B1 TM Lakalya de Silva took over proceedings as the Installing Officer of the incoming Executive Committee of CCTMC. She conducted the installation ceremony with style and grace, even leaving room for a laugh or two as she introduced each ExCo member.

who declared her vision to make the club “crazy connected” to the District in her year as President. Next, the Awards Chairperson TM Dighayu Jayawardene felicitated every member of the club who had completed Levels in the Pathways Education Program during the past Toastmasters year, those who had earned themselves special awards and the outgoing Exco. Finally, the Installation Chairperson TM Imesha Dissanayake – whose hard work and dedication towards making Exordium 4.0 a success, carried the event forward – addressed the gathering in her vote of thanks, highlighting the efforts of her team in making the event a success. The evening officially ended with refreshments and fellowship.

By TM Zainab Niyas , Central Colombo TMC

The ceremony was followed by an address by the new President, TM Nishedha Indraratne, who paid tribute to the leaders of CCTMC who made the club what it is today, and

Let’s get musical.

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MEET OUR LATEST ADDITIONS TM ABIYLACKSHMANA Manager - Strategic Partnerships (AsiaPacificInstitute of DigitalMarketing)

TM AMRITHA Assistant Manager - Sustainability (Hirdaramani International Exports)

TM DEEPSHIKA Digital Media Account Manager (IKON Marketing)

TM DILIBAN Product Manager (Technomedics International Pvt Ltd)

TM HARITHA Junio Business Analyst (LB Finance IT)

TM KYU THIN CHO Project Officer (UN-Habitat, Myanmar)

TM NADIL Chemistry Undergraduate (University of Kelaniya)

TM PATALI Executive - Bulk Merchandiser (Linea Aqua)

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NEW INITIATIVES BY CCTMC

INCEPTUM The purpose of interpersonal communication webinars is to enhance members’ skills in effectively exchanging information, ideas, and emotions with others. These webinars are designed to improve communication and to address various aspects of interpersonal interactions in personal and professional contexts.

MEMBERS IN THE LIMELIGHT Showcasing the journey of a successful Toastmasters, to inspire members to strive for excellence in their public speaking, leadership, and personal growth. This initiative is also aim to honor the achievements of the individual, reinforcing the value of hard work and dedication within the Toastmasters program.

MENTORSHIP BOOTCAMP A mentorship bootcamp is a dynamic approach that accelerates learning and fosters the personal and professional growth of the members, guided by experienced mentors. It is designed to provide structured and intensive learning experiences, primarily focusing on the development of skills for navigating challenges and building confidence for the members.

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WORDS FROM A NEWBIE: When I joined CCTMC in March 2024, I had no idea how transformative the next few months would be. Public speaking was a skill I admired from afar, but it felt like an unreachable goal for someone like me—someone filled with selfdoubt and nervous energy. Amidst this uncertainty, something deep inside me, kept whispering that I had stories worth telling, ideas worth sharing, and a leader within me waiting to shine.

After facing a series of challenges in my workplace, I finally listened to that inner voice and decided to give the speaker within me a chance.

Without fully understanding the depths and heights of Toastmasters, I took the leap into this incredible community. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned on this journey is that true growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone and embrace the opportunities that challenge you.

In my club, I found my pack. It became my fresh soil, where the flower of my inner leader began to bloom, and my comfort zone, where the supportive eyes in front of me reassured me that I truly belonged on the stage.

For me, one of the most significant catalysts for growth was attending out-of-club events, particularly Speechcraft sessions. I had the privilege of participating in the APIDM Speechcraft program early in my Toastmasters journey, and it was nothing short of a breakthrough moment. Standing in front of a room full of new faces was terrifying at first and, at times, left me speechless.

I’ve come to realize that growth in Toastmasters doesn’t happen in isolation. While club meetings are essential, true transformation begins when you step outside and engage with the broader Toastmasters community. The more

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MY TOASTMASTERS JOURNEY you connect with diverse audiences, the more you refine your skills. Each out-of-club event becomes a new opportunity to challenge yourself, overcome fears, and push the boundaries of what you thought was possible.

As I reflect on my journey, I see a remarkable transformation. I’ve gone from someone who could barely stand in front of an audience to someone who now speaks with growing confidence and pride. More importantly, I’ve begun to see my own worth—not just as a speaker but as an individual. Every role I’ve taken on, every out-of-club event I’ve attended, and every speech I’ve delivered has contributed to building a version of myself that I’m proud of.

For anyone embarking on their own Toastmasters journey, my advice is simple: embrace every opportunity to step outside your comfort zone. Attend Speechcraft sessions, join joint meetings, and participate in contests.

Growth happens when you challenge yourself, and it accelerates when you engage with the wider community. Lean on the support system around you, because Toastmasters is not just about personal development—it’s about growing together.

Toastmasters has shown me that growth is a journey, not a destination. And for me, the journey has only just begun. As Amelia Earheart once famously said ‘’ Let your fear guide you.

It will take you to places where you’ve stored your courage’’.

TM Harshani Karunathilake Club Secretary 2024/25

MORE MOMENTS

Here are some more of our moments that made an impact.

District Quiz Second Runner-up!

Among The Top Flyers of the Month July!

IF YOU’RE STILL HERE, YOU’RE OFFICIALLY OUR FAVORITE READER!

THANK YOU!

I am thrilled to present this semi-annual newsletter, which is the culmination of weeks of collaboration, creativity, and dedication from the members of the Central Colombo Toastmasters Club.

This newsletter is more than just a collection of articles and photos —it’s a reflection of the passion, hard work, and growth that each of you brings to the club. From our seasoned speakers to those just beginning their Toastmasters journey, every contribution helps shape the vibrant community we’ve built together.

Whether it’s through insightful speeches, inspiring leadership, or our ongoing support of one another, this newsletter showcases how we consistently dazzle the Toastmasters stage with our collective talent.

TM Janith Jinadasa Editor, The Central Point

Every section has been carefully crafted with you in mind—our members, who continue to push boundaries and grow with every meeting.

Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence, and I hope this edition inspires you as much as the journey has inspired all of us.

Here’s to even greater achievements in the future!

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WHAT’S NEXT? CCTMC CALENDER DATES TO REMEMBER! 1st DEC

Educational Meeting

8th DEC

Mentors’ Meetup

15th DEC

Christmas Themed Open House Meeting

20th DEC

District 82 Christmas Party

THE CENTRAL POINT TEAM JANITH JINADASA (EDITOR) KYU THIN CHO (CO-EDITOR) NISHEDHA INDRARATNE SAJANI JAYATHMA

THE CENTRAL POINT VO LUME 4, ISSUE 1