Startup Colombo TMC - Startup Spark - Term 1

NEWSLETTEROFSTARTUPCOLOMBOTOASTMASTERS STARTUP SPARK

POWER OF PAUSE

BY TOASTMASTER SUMALI WIJESINGHE

STARTUP INFORMATION centre

WHO WE ARE

Startup Colombo Toastmasters is a club for fun-loving, enthusiastic risk-takers who enjoy the thrill of following their passion. We are a community of startup founders and professionals in the corporate who aims to develop leadership and public speaking skills through the Toastmasters Program. Our Club was Chartered in 2019 and was able to achieve the President's Distinguished status in the charter year itself! This is the first chapter of our story towards making remarkable progress

WHERE ARE WE MEETING

All our meetings are happening at Hatch Works,

Google Maps

https://maps.app.goo.gl/AfsXc4W mA2hr3RDL9

HOW TO BECOME A MEMBER

You can join one of our club meetings as a guest free of charge. You can join 2 meetings like that Then you can decide to join our club If you want more time, you can join few more meetings with a charge of Rs 500/= per meeting

WHOM CAN JOIN AS MEMBERS

Anyone above 18 years old who is passionate on public speaking and leadership can join our club

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.

HOW FREQUENTLY ARE WE MEETING

We are meeting every 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of a month

WHEN ARE WE MEETING

All our meeting starts at 6.30 pm.

PRESIDENT’S message

"ChartingNew Horizons:AToast toOurJourney”

DearEsteemedToastmasters,

AsIreflectonthejourneyofthepast months,itbringsmeimmensejoy and pride to present to you the November edition of our Annual NewsletterOurvoyagesincethestart ofthistermonJuly1sthasbeen nothingshortofextraordinary,filled withmilestones,camaraderie,anda commitmenttoexcellence

Fromtheinceptionofourterm,we embarked on uncharted waters, organizing the first-ever offline Executive Committee Installation ceremonya testament to our resilienceanddeterminationtofoster connectionsbeyondthedigitalrealm Inthespiritofcontinuouslearning andcamaraderie,weconducted10 educationalmeetings,eachbrimming withfunandenlightenment Ourexecutivecommittee,ablendof fresh perspectives and unwavering commitment,hasbeenthebackbone ofoursuccess.DedicationofourVicePresident-Education, Toastmaster Hansini, propelled us towards achievingourEducationalDCPgoals

Toastmaster

Rashmi Wickramaratne

Her passion for inspiring and pushing our members to reach their educational zenith is truly commendable

Toastmaster Keshalya, our VicePresident Membership, set the club ablaze with her welcoming spirit, ensuring that every guest felt valued and connected Thanks to her efforts, our club now stands proud with 24 strong members a testament to the vibrant community we've built

The magnanimous support of Toastmaster Chathura, our VicePresident Public Relations, has elevated our club's profile to new heights His tireless efforts in public relations have not only attracted visitors from various clubs but also resulted in the highest participation at a club meeting since 2019.Toastmaster Sumali, our Treasurer, has been the financial maestro, ensuring the health and prosperity of our club Her diligent work behind the scenes ensures that our club's financial foundation remains robust

Our Secretary, Toastmaster Lahiruni, is the glue that binds our team together. Her meticulous record-keeping and infectious laughter have added a vibrant and cohesive element to our club. The dynamic force that keeps our meetings running like clockwork the youngest and most active member of our team, our Sergeant at Arms, who arrives early, ensures smooth proceedings, and leaves the venue spick and span

Our journey would not have been possible without the guidance of two outstanding past Presidents, Toastmaster Manura and Toastmaster Ashok, whose commitment and hard work continue to inspire us Whenever we are faced with challenges, they are never hesitant to get themselves knee-deep in responsibilities, again and again Our amazing members have amazing levels of commitment and participation, both within and beyond the club, Their active participation has transformed our club into a fellowship of "Friends Helping Friends."

Division D is such a special community, I must mention the unwavering support by Area D2 Torrington, KDU, SyscoLabs and ItelaSoft TMC specially during the contest seasons. TM Raveen, our Division Director and TM Shani, our Area Director were always their to help us, even at the 11th hour

AREA DIRECTOR’S message

Toastmaster Shani Gunasekara

Startup Colombo Toastmasters Club has always supported District 82 to execute its Vision with a plan and also with lots of fun.

As the club started off with a great foundation with many experienced mentors, the club still functions on those principles set by the Toastmasters who were there from the inception of the club TM Ashok, the charter Vice PresidentMembership actively participates in all club activities and guides these toastmasters to do unique activities

The club over the years has been conducting very interesting and educational meetings. Recently they revamped their “My Startup Storÿ” segment by bringing in startup owners to elaborate their stories and add value to this club.

Startup Colombo Toastmasters are very close to me as they always support me no matter what I have and wherever I am. A call is what matters, and they come to help and support you I am always thankful to TM Rashmi, TM Hansini, and their exco for supporting each other at all times, planning everything in detail, and making my life easier

In the past 6 months, under the leadership of TM Rashmi, the club has engaged in Toastmasters Events outside of the club such as the Division Conference. In fact,

I was really happy to see that being a Startup Business focused club, Thyaga (Online Gifts & Vouchers) and EverHealthy (Himalayan Pink Salt Retail), both companies founded and run by the members of the Club were present as sponsors at the Mid-Year Division Conference.

The Club also has had many internal events that were both educational and fun in nature I can see that it is this combination of education and fun that will bring Start-up Colombo Toastmasters to its goals in a natural and consistent manner.

As their Area Director I shall always support their endeavors and as a Toastmaster I shall always passionately look forward to what they do next!

Toastmaster Raveen Lankanatha

DIVISION DIRECTOR’S message

Dear Innovators of the Startup Toastmasters Club,

I extend my warmest greetings to the enterprising individuals who power the Startup Toastmasters Club!

Assembled with the energy of entrepreneurship and the passion for growth, your club stands as a beacon of innovation and dynamism Comprising the entrepreneurial minds of the community, the Startup Toastmasters Club embodies the essence of determination and vision

Your club, a rising star in our district, holds immense potential. Each member contributes a piece to the mosaic of possibilities and aspirations, paving the way for a collective journey toward excellence.

It's inspiring to witness how some of our members from the Startup Toastmasters Club have excelled in their division roles, showcasing exceptional dedication and skill

Their performance serves as a testament to the club's commitment to fostering leadership and excellence

Entrepreneurs within this club share a common vision nurturing ideas, refining skills, and fostering an environment where innovation and leadership are cultivated This shared

as a beacon, guiding members towa their personal and profession zeniths May each meeting be canvas for ideation, a platform learning, and a space whe aspirations take root and blossom.

As the club navigates its upwa trajectory, embrace every opportun for growth, collaboration, and empowerment. Let this club be a nurturing ground for the entrepreneurial spirit, where talents are honed, connections are forged, and ambitions take flight.

The potential within this club is boundless a catalyst for igniting new ideas, fostering leadership, and steering members toward transformative accomplishments

I am eager to witness the remarkable journey of the Startup Toastmasters Club and the collective success that awaits each entrepreneur within this inspiring community.

Here's to an exciting chapter filled with groundbreaking innovations, shared victories, and the realization of entrepreneurial dreams!

CATCH UP! What happened

English Vinglish - 106th Educational Meeting

A meeting where we dissected the challenges of learning a second language and becoming a competent public speaker in the International Language Kudos to TM Kanchan, Toastmaster of the Day

Club Officer Installation

The first ever offline Officer Installation of the Club set the momentum for rest of the Toastmasters Year It was also the special occasion the Club’s New Member Installation was also successfully conducted Toastmaster Ashok Sivalingam installed the New Members and their mentors were Introduced Toastmaster Shani Gunasekare, Madam Area Director conducted the New Club Officer Installation Ceremony.

Salt Worth its Salt - 107th Educational Meeting

A creative and amusing meeting we dug deep in to the mines of Salt! and TM Chathura being the guide. A wonderful meeting with lot of vistors plus Club dinner

Decision Making - 108th Educational Meeting

Good decisions were made after that Meeting As it was the meeting we started experimenting on new and engaging ways to conduct the Table Topics Session As always Toastmaster Manura lead the way as the Toastmaster of the Day

ROFL - 109th Educational Meeting

Arguably the most happening toastmasters meeting of the term, TM Kaushalya as the TMOD. It was an open house event graced by DTM Farhaz Faruk

Connect - 110th Educational Meeting

We “Startupians” always love to reach out above and beyond.. In this case, we made a Trip out of it. After having a wonderful Sleepover in chilly hills of Kandy, next day we had a unique joint meeting with the young and vibrant Central Link Toastmasters Club, Kandy

Unleash Yourself - 111th Educational Meeting

An Informative meeting for the Startup Community . Toastmaster and esteemed Entrepreneur Alagan Mahalingam shared his inspiring Startup Journey with us followed by TM Niroshan walked us through the 7 habits of Highly Effective People.

Child in you - 112th Educational Meeting

“Keep your inner Child in a coma, a vegetable enough to behave like a adult, yet alive enough to use your Child-like wonder when life beats you down” A meeting plus dinner which we unleashed our inner child

Books - 113th Educational Meeting

Toastmaster Lahiruni delved deeply in to the world of books

Startup - 114th Educational Meeting

A meeting all about startups! Toastmaster Miuli made sure we know what we does the best

Halloween - 115th Educational Meeting

A TM Club Calendar is incomplete without a Haloweens themed meeting. And Toastmaster Keshalya put together a spooky Meeting plus Dinner for the Club.

Power of Gratitude - 116th Educational Meeting

The meeting which everybody was grateful to have Toastmaster Sumali helped the Audience realize the beauty and power of showing gratitude to the humans in our lives.

Day outing to Villa 198

A much needed outing for the burnt out soulsIt was a brief but amazing day which we got to discover little bit about each and everybody. And special thanks to Hansini and Kanishka for being referee at the lawless Water-Polo game.

UPCOMING EVENTS

117th Educational Meeting

06 th December

118th Educational Meeting

20 th December

CONTEST winners

Humorous Speech

Kaushalya De Silva

Contest Chair - Area D2

Contest Chair - Area D2 Toastmaster

Hansini Liyanage

2nd RUNNER-UP Toastmaster

TRANSFORMACIÓN

Toastmaster Lahiruni Ekanayake

FROM THE COURTROOM TO THE CATWALK: A LAWYER’S JOURNEY OF CONFIDENCE, OVERCOMING ANXIETY, AND TOASTMASTERS TRIUMPH

You would never expect a lawyer to have anxiety issues on public speaking right? Sadly, I was no stranger to the challenges of public speaking and self-doubt. However, life has been a rollercoaster ride since the day I decided to become a member of Startup Colombo Toastmasters Club

Joining the Toastmasters community proved to be a pivotal decision The nurturing and supportive environment of the club provided me with a platform to confront and conquer my anxiety. The structured yet friendly atmosphere allowed me to gradually shed my inhibitions and find my voice.

It wasn’t long before I became the secretary of the club for the year 2023/2024. Being Executive Comm the best learning not only in term but also, in term skills in leadershi

My Toastmasters various mileston stands out for m contest This vic opportunity to co in the Humo Evaluation Cont was a testament power of Toastm confidence communication my Toastmaste rewarding is the within the club.

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Fashion for Freedom 2023. Learning to walk on the ramp has been a rewarding experience that helped me build my confidence and the supportive environment for startups at my club has been rely inspiring in terms of guiding me to engage in modelling as a freelancer

The experience on the modeling ramp, once an exercise in testing my confidence, now stands as a symbol of my triumph over anxiety and self-doubt. Not only that, along with the support of my club, it has now amounted to an opportunity beyond a one-time venture. In fact, my venture from the courtroom to the catwalk, has been a journey of profound selfdiscovery Toastmasters, with its empowering ethos, has been a blessing in disguise.

I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the profound impact my club has had on my personal and professional journey Joining this vibrant community has been instrumental in equipping me with the essential skills and confidence needed to articulate my thoughts and ideas effectively

The supportive and constructive environment has not only enhanced my public speaking abilities but has also cultivated a sense of camaraderie and encouragement among the members

The invaluable feedback and guidance received during meetings have played a pivotal role in refining my communication style, enabling me to ssional scenarios on the past year, the Toastmasters spensable ally in and professional me to inch closer y dreams

your head when all and blaming it on yourself when all allowance for their not be tired by t, don't deal in n't give way to o good, nor talk

TRANSFORMACIÓN

Toastmaster Sumali Wijesinghe

CULTIVATING GRATITUDE: A JOURNEY OF SELF-APPRECIATION AND CONNECTION

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook our achievements and the people who have played pivotal roles in our journey Taking a moment to express gratitude, not only towards others but also towards ourselves, can be a powerful and transformative practice. Here are some thoughtful ways to cultivate gratitude in your life and revel in the joy of acknowledging your achievements.

1. Celebrate Yourself

In the rush of life, we often forget to pat ourselves on the back for the milestones we achieve. One effective way to show gratitude towards yourself is by celebrating your achievements Whether it’s buying something you’ve had your eye on, adorning yourself with meaningful orn me acts you look pro and 2. Par Our in mo the you how Con gift If y effo sho go app

3. Share Thank You Notes

Gratitude extends beyond familial ties. Take the time to acknowledge and appreciate the people you admire and who have impacted your life positively Write heartfelt thank-you notes to express your gratitude. It could be a mentor, a friend, or someone who has inspired you The act of expressing appreciation not only brightens their day but also reinforces positive connections in your life

4. Practice Gratitude Journaling

One of the most effective ways to foster gratitude is by maintaining a gratitude journal Set aside a few minutes each day to jot down things you're thankful for Reflect on both small and significant moments. It could be as simple as a warm cup of coffee in the morning or a

Benefits of Practicing Gratitude

1. Improved Mental Health: Gratitude has been linked to increased feelings of happiness and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety

2. Enhanced Relationships: Expressing gratitude strengthens interpersonal relationships by fostering a positive and appreciative environment

3. Better Physical Health: Studies suggest that practicing gratitude is associated with better physical health, including improved sleep and lower stress levels

4. Increased Resilience: Grateful individuals tend to be more resilient in the face of challenges, as they focus on the positive aspects of life

In conclusion, cultivating gratitude is a multifaceted practice that not only involves appreciating oneself but also extends to acknowledging the

TRANSFORMACIÓN

Toastmaster Keshalya Jayapalraj

EMBRACING CONFIDENCE: MY JOURNEY FROM GLOSSOPHOBIA TO TOASTMASTERS TRIUMPH

During my school years, I was always the enthusiastic, outgoing extrovert –so much so that my parents friends affectionately dubbed me a chatterbox However, one day in grade 3, I faced a turning point

Asked to do a reading in front of my classmates, I suddenly found myself unable to utter a single word It felt like a lump lodged in my throat and I began to st class erupted in la deeply shaken Fro vowed never to others, avoiding s competitions tha embraced

I convinced mys talking was not my towards being a passed – five years left school in 2013 the corporate among the larger s

However, my lack of confidence led to frequent stammering, necessitating extensive practice sessions. My fear of public speaking escalated, and I found myself mentally burdened Sleepless nights were spent contemplating my career and how to overcome this fear. Through research, I discovered the term “glossophobia” a common phobia characterized by an intense fear of public speaking, encompassing symptoms like a dry throat, anxiety, and an elevated heartbeat

MAGIC WORDS OF TOASTMASTERS

Despite trying various techniques, such as speech therapy and breathing exercises, none proved effective, given my constraints as a junior HR professional. Seven years passed, and I continued to climb the career ladder, completing an MBA in strategic management Transitioning to a midsenior management position in an IT company,

I reached a turning point when a friend with excellent communication skills introduced me to the magic words TOASTMASTERS.

HOW I OVERCOME “GLASSOPHOBIA”

Pursuing a career management, I so made a sign Witnessing others audiences in mee and events spark with public speakin the profound communication co role, I faced situati conduct employee deliver presentatio However, my lack o frequent stamme extensive practice public speaking es myself mentally bu

Enter Startup Colombo Toastmasters Club, my first Toastmasters experience From the first meeting, I appreciated the supportive atmosphere and the club's nature They understood my struggles and provided the ideal platform to overcome glossophobia. I vividly recall my initial attempts during a roundrobin session, where I stuttered and stammered Yet, slowly but surely, I began to break the ice, gain control over my fear, and blossom. Now, almost 1 5 years into my Toastmasters journey, I haven't fully conquered my fear of public speaking. However, I've made significant progress, surpassing the 60% mark It's incredible to reflect on how an individual like me transformed into a recognized speaker and table topics participant Toastmasters has played a pivotal role in shaping the confident person I am today, and I anticipate it propelling me to heights I couldn't have imagined Joining Startup Colombo Toastmasters remains one of the best decisions I've made, and I look forward to the continued growth this journey promises

Written by Toastmaster

TRANSFORMACIÓN

Toastmaster Seneth Fonseka

STEPPING IN TO THE REALM OF PERSONAL GROWTH

Every journey begins with a single step, and in the realm of personal growth and self-improvement, my path led me to the doors of Toastmasters As I reflect on my journey thus far, I find myself amazed by the transformative power this community possesses.

Joining Toastmasters was not just a decision; it was an investment in my own development. Initially, stepping into that first meeting was nervewracking The room buzzed with energy, diverse individuals united by a common goal – to become better communicators and leaders. Little did I know, this community would soon become an integral part of my life

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE PLATFORM TOASTMASTERS PROVIDES

The platform that Toastmasters provides is unparalleled. From delivering prepared speeches to impromptu talks at Table Topics, each meeting is an opportunity to hone our speaking prowess The constructive feedback and encouragement from fellow members foster an environment where growth is not just encouraged but celebrated

However, my journey isn’t just about improving public speaking; it's about unlocking a world of possibilities The leadership roles available within Toastmasters offer a chance to develop skills beyond the podium Serving as a club officer, taking charge of meetings, and guiding fellow members has been a rewarding experience that transcends the boundaries of the clubroom But beyond the technical skills and speaking finesse, what truly sets Toastmasters apart is the sense of community

The camaraderie and support from fellow Toastmasters create a nurturing environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Looking ahead, my journey with Toastmasters is an ongoing adventure I eagerly anticipate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead – from progressing through Pathways to mentoring new members Each step fuels my enthusiasm to push boundaries, surpass limitations, and reach new heights

Toastmasters isn’t just an organization; it's a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment It’s about embracing challenges, celebrating victories, and learning from every experience.

As I continue on this path, I invite you all to embark on your own Toastmasters journey. Embrace the process, relish the progress, and savor the camaraderie. Together, let’s continue to inspire and be inspired by the transformative power of Toastmasters.

Embarking on my journey as a newly joined member of Toastmasters has been nothing short of transformative In just a short span, I have witnessed a remarkable evolution in my communication skills and overall confidence

The welcoming atmosphere of the club, coupled with the constructive feedback from fellow members, has been instrumental in breaking down the barriers of public speaking anxiety. Each meeting is a stepping stone, allowing me to explore diverse speaking styles, engage in impromptu speeches, and take on leadership roles.

The supportive community at Toastmasters has not only helped me conquer my initial apprehensions but has also provided a platform for personal growth and skill enhancement

As I continue this enriching experience, I am eager to unlock new levels of proficiency, grateful for the nurturing environment that Toastmasters provides for aspiring communicators like myself

Written by Toastmaster Seneth Fonseka

TÊTE-À-TÊTE

Toastmaster Kanchana Priyankatha

Co Founder of KReader

Q: What inspired you to become an entrepreneur?

When I was a kid, I always dreamed of becoming a writer In 2012, I took the first step towards realizing that dream by writing my first book. To publish my work, we established our own publication house, KBOOKS As we encountered challenges related to book selling, we decided to address these issues head-on, leading to the establishment of KBOOKS.LK, an online bookstore, in 2017 Subsequently, recognizing additional challenges faced by readers, writers, and publishers, we introduced KReader in 2023 as a solution I attribute my journey as an entrepreneur to the passion I had for writing It was this initial desire to be a writer that inspired me to take on the challenges and establish myself as an entrepreneur today.

launched KBOOKS, an online bookstore where anyone can order and have books delivered to their doorstep Subsequently, we faced another issue – inflation The prices of physical books became unaffordable, leading to many out-of-print books remaining unprinted. Even online bookstores couldn't fully solve the problems for readers urgently in need of books, especially rare ones. This led to the introduction of KReader, a comprehensive digital reading platform offering both ebooks and audiobooks.

Q: What are the key milestones and achievements in your entrepreneurial journey?

Q: What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?

The main challenges were the pandemic and the economic crisis, both of which brought hundreds of sub-challenges. If you don't have to face challenges, and if you have no risk in what you do, then you are not an entrepreneur Every time I encounter a challenge, I believe it has come to me because I am the best person to introduce the solution I enjoy each and every moment of working as an entrepreneur.

Q: How do you integrate leadership and communication skills developed in Toastmasters into your business?

Q: Can you briefly describe your business or entrepreneurial venture?

As I mentioned earlier, we initially established the publishing house just to publish my own books However, I soon realized that merely publishing one's own books doesn't make you a publisher A publisher's role carries more responsibility and duty; they are accountable for introducing other worthy books to readers. With this in mind, we expanded our scope to publish books by other writers The next significant concern was distribution. We aimed to have our publications available not only in our country but worldwide This challenge is likely shared by many other publishers and writers. Readers also encounter similar difficulties in finding specific books in physical bookshops, given their limited space To address these challenges, we

We have successfully published over 70 books, with approximately 30 of them receiving various literary awards and making it to shortlists. Additionally, KReader has been recognized with nota achievements It won the Gold Aw for Technopreneurship Excelle Awards 2023 in the Best Softw Application category Moreo KReader secured the second plac the She Loves Tech local competi and earned a position in the top 1 the Spiralation cohort Notably, it achieved a place in the top 5 of Stanford Seed Park Programme in same year.

Q: How has Toastmasters contributed to your entrepreneurial success?

Toastmasters is all about growing together and enhancing both your communication and leadership skills. Each time I attend a Toastmasters club meeting, I find there are always new things to learn The individuals I meet contribute significantly to my success.

Whatever new things I learn at Toastmasters, I experiment with and integrate them into our businesses. It's quite fun and novel, and it has positively affected my journey

Q: Can you explain how skills honed in Toastmasters, such as public speaking and leadership, have been applied in your entrepreneurial endeavors?

It was at Toastmasters that I became convinced that public speaking is an art and learned how to integrate it with leadership skills Specifically, I learned to reflect on my speeches, the way I converse, and the moments where I can improve Consequently, I never hesitate to enhance myself or integrate new skills and qualities that upgrade the leader in me.

Q: How do you balance professional commitments with Toastmasters responsibilities? Answer these questions?

The Toastmasters club is like a family to me. When you are with your family, you always receive help whenever you need it That's the most beautiful thing in the Toastmasters family they are always there for you through thick and thin. That's truly valuable.

Interviewed by Toastmaster Keshalya jayapalraj

MY STARTUP STORY

special edition

Generation ALPHA

“Generation ALPHA” was born as a result of a dream I had when I was a 19-year-old teenager When me and my friends were studying for A/Ls, we realized that we are not really passionate about what we are studying It was not just us That was the story of the majority of students We do things that others ask us to do. What society expects us to do. But we ignore what our heart asks us to do We ignore what we are really passionate about or our purpose in life.

Inspired by the Rancho’s school in “3 idiots” film, I wanted to build a school where youngsters can create their own pathway At that age, I did not have a single clue about “Entrepreneurship” or “Start-ups”

But I stuck to my dream and worked as a volunteer teacher for nearly 1 year until I entered the university which in fact turned out to be an amazing experience

Fortunately, I got selected to Management and IT degree program in University of Kelaniya where, it provided a good industry exposure. That was the first time I heard the term “Entrepreneurship” When I was at the end of the 1 st year of my degree program, I started a T-shirt selling business named “Imperial designs ” First we started it with customized t-shirt printing, then pivoted to T-shirt reselling and later we started doing promotional t-shirts. This period was filled with ups and downs From taking the client order, manufacturing to delivery it has so l t t h

current skill level and future expectations. This is basically a project-based learning for them

We are more focusing on developing their emotional intelligence via developed people skills. While working in these projects they can develop their team working and leadership abilities, personal branding, developed communication skills and most importantly they can gain more industry exposure and network. This is like a sand box for them where they can do trial and errors and identify their pathway

The advantage in this model is, if you are going for a traditional training process you have to find a specific trainee segment Here in this model, whatever the background student has, whether you are a science student art student, an undergraduate, or working, whatever the background you have, they can join with us and create their own pathway.

At this stage, I felt I have a knack towards entrepreneurship and started to learn more about it Started to go for networking events. Then after my final exams at university I started Generation ALPHA back in 2021 mixing the dream I once had with my interest for entrepreneurship. In Generation ALPHA, people above age 16 can join with us as a member They will be enrolled in to a project analyzing their

They can have mentoring, industry network, can enroll to different courses offered by our partners for free and seek for part time job opportunities also

By 2023, we have a member base around 200 and more than 2000 community build around us. It has been a long journey But I am really glad that I chose to follow my pathway despite of all the difficulties I had to face.

Written by Toastmaster Miuli Kalubowila

MY STARTUP STORY

KAgroo

“KAgroo Exports and Plantations Pvt Ltd, a beacon of innovation and empowerment in the agricultural and natural products landscape of Sri Lanka. As a co-founder, I have been at the forefront of breaking barriers and opening new avenues for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and farmers to reach global markets with our novel business model

KAgroo has positioned itself as an agricultural producer aggregator, playing a pivotal role in bridging the gap between local producers and international markets. The company takes the products of SMEs and farmers and showcases them under its own branding, KAgroo with high end product packaging to meet the international market requirements and improving the quality aspects of the farmers and SME manufacturers This not only enhances the visibility of these products but also instills a sense of reliability and quality assurance associated with the KAgroo

The journey of KAgroo is not merely about eCommerce; it's about empowerment One remarkable initiative by KAgroo is the Women Empowerment Programme that has been making waves across Sri Lanka. Recognizing the pivotal role that women play in agriculture,

special edition

KAgroo has taken a proactive approach to uplift and empower household women through this initiative and are working with 25 famers currently which is expected to reach 100+ farmers by the end of 2024

The core of the Women Empowerment Programme revolves around providing Natural Vanilla planting materials to household women By distributing these materials, KAgroo not only supports the growth of vanilla, a valuable cash crop, but also empowers women to actively engage in agricultural activities. The extension services provided by KAgroo are an invaluable component of this program, offering guidance and expertise to ensure the success of vanilla cultivation.

What sets KAgroo apart is its commitment to the entire value chain. Unlike conventional approaches, KAgroo goes beyond just providing resources, it ensures a sustainable ecosystem by purchasing the harvest at market prices during the harvesting period

This approach not only guarantees a fair return for the hard work put in by these women but also creates a cycle of economic empowerment that benefits the entire community.

The impact of KAgroo’s Women Empowerment Programme is not limited to economic aspects alone. It is a catalyst for social change, breaking stereotypes and fostering a culture where women are recognized as formidable contributors to the agricultural sector. By providing a platform for women to actively participate in farming activities, KAgroo is dismantling barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.

KAgroo boasts a diverse product portfolio, featuring over 40 unique offerings that cater to a variety of needs With a robust selection of more than 100 Stock Keeping Units (SKUs), KAgroo ensures a comprehensive range of choices for its customers. This extensive product lineup is currently making waves in the global market, with successful sales and distribution spanning across 8 countries.

As KAgroo continues to expand its reach, it remains committed to delivering quality and innovation in every product it offers.

Written by Toastmaster Heshan Peiris

This approach not only guarantees a fair return for the hard work put in by these women but also creates a cycle of economic empowerment that benefits the entire community.

STARTUP EDUZONE

Unlock the power of pause

Hey, awesome readers! Ever thought about the magic that happens when you hit the pause button in a conversation? There's a unique power in the ability to wait be it a second, a minute, or even an hour Let's dive into why you should embrace the art of the pause, and trust me, it's more than just catching your breath

1. Let It Sink In

Taking a pause isn't just dead air; it's a strategic move. By giving your audience a moment to think, digest, and reflect on your words, you're creating a space for understanding. It's like hitting play on a thoughtprovoking track, and you want your audience to vibe with it

2. Get Your Game Plan

Pause for a cause! When you take a beat, you're not just buying time; you're investing in the quality of your conversation. It's your chance to map out your next move, ensuring that what comes next is on point and impactful

3. Reflect on Your Own Wisdom

This one's a game-changer. Pause not only for your audience but for yourself It's the secret sauce to avoid that "what did I just say?" moment Reflect, digest, and let it sink in. The power of the pause lies in the ability to be your own critic and refine your message on the fly

But Wait, There's More - Credibility Boost

Now, here's the bonus round. Ever wondered how silence can make you a more credible speaker? It's like cleaning up your verbal closet The absence of vocal clutter those 'Ah's, 'Um's, 'So's, 'But's, and you know,

the 'Noh' (looking at you, Sri Lankans) elevates your credibility game

Less Fillers, More Authority

Picture this: You're on stage, and instead of stumbling through filler words, you gracefully hit pause Suddenly, you're not just a speaker; you're a subject matter expert Your authority levels skyrocket, and the impact of your message? Through the roof.

So, to those skeptics asking, "How can the absence of speaking make you a credible speaker?" it's all about cutting the noise, unlocking the power of a pause, and letting your words resonate Embrace the silence, and let your credibility do the talking.

Now that you're armed with the knowledge of the mighty pause, it's time to put it into action! Here are a couple of tips to weave the power of a pause into your communication style:

1. "Perfect" Practice Makes Perfect

Start small. Whether it's a casual chat with friends, a work meeting or a toastmasters meeting, consciously incorporate intentional pauses Notice the impact it has on the conversation and your own clarity The more you practice, the more natural it becomes

2. Embrace the Dramatic Pause

Channel your inner actor and experiment with a well-timed dramatic pause. When making a key point or introducing a crucial idea, let the silence linger for a moment(a longer pause) It adds weight to your words and ensures your message lands with impact.

What is the perfect length of the long pause, feel the vibe of the audience as you are in the pause.

As soon as you feel the audience getting anxious, pause a fraction longer and end the pause with your "Big idea" Trust me it takes practice to pull this one off but when you get the hang of this, your speeches will never be the same ever again.

Time to Action

Ready to unleash the power of a pause? Challenge yourself this week to consciously incorporate pauses into your daily conversations. Whether it's during a presentation, your next pathways project, a debate, or just a regular chat, hit that pause button strategically and observe the difference

Remember, the silence between your words can speak volumes. Level up your communication game, boost your credibility, and leave a lasting impression

Are you up for the challenge? Hit pause and make your mark!

Written by Toastmaster Achintha Jayasekara

STARTUP ENTERTANO

A Polygamy of Communication, Leadership and Startups

Across

2. This usually is Razor-thin during first years of your Startup.

3 A figure of speech involving the comparison of one thing with another thing of a different kind, used to make a description more emphatic or vivid

5 a word or phrase that modifies or qualifies an adjective, verb, or other adverb or a word group, expressing a relation of place, time, circumstance, manner, cause, degree, etc.

7 How people's brain react to Advertising You know the word if you have witnessed Achintha's keynote.

8 pitch is a brief way of introducing yourself, getting across a key point or two, and making a connection with someone.

9. An experienced and trusted adviser. Being a one is an important part of being a toastmaster

10. A short sentence that people often quote, which gives advice or tells you something about life.

Down

1. Where Pink Salt is coming from

4 It's a new name for a PowerPoint presentation

6. Most Experienced Toastmasters say this is the heart of Toastmasters

YOU MAY SEE ME STRUGGLE, BUT YOU WON'T SEE ME FALL.

REGARDLESS IF I'M WEAK OR NOT, I'M GOING TO STAND TALL. EVERYONE SAYS LIFE IS EASY, BUT TRULY LIVING IT IS NOT. TIMES GET HARD, PEOPLE STRUGGLE

AND CONSTANTLY GET PUT ON THE SPOT. I'M GOING TO WEAR THE BIGGEST SMILE, EVEN THOUGH I WANT TO CRY. I'M GOING TO FIGHT TO LIVE, EVEN THOUGH I'M DESTINED TO DIE. AND EVEN THOUGH IT'S HARD AND I MAY STRUGGLE THROUGH IT ALL, YOU MAY SEE ME STRUGGLE... BUT YOU WILL NEVER SEE ME FALL.