Welcome to the latest edition of the HSBC GSC Toastmasters Club newsletter! This term, we continue to embrace our theme, “Empowering Leaders in Corporate world”, a principle that resonates deeply within our club Whether you’re taking your first step into public speaking or refining advanced leadership skills, Toastmasters provides a platform for continuous growth, learning, and transformation
Reflecting on our journey, we h witnessed members overcome fears, bu confidence, and take on challenges t once seemed daunting. The power structured practice, constructive feedba and a supportive community has helped shape not just better speakers, but a stronger leaders From captivat speeches to thought-provoking evaluatio from teamwork in organizing events to camaraderie built along the w Toastmasters is more than just a club it launchpad for personal and professio success.
In this edition, we bring you inspir stories, key highlights from our rec meetings and events, and practical insig to enhance your communication a leadership skills. Whether you are seasoned member or someone consider taking that first step, we hope these pa ignite your enthusiasm to grow and exce
A heartfelt thank you to our dedica members, mentors, and leaders who make this journey so rewarding. Let’s continue to challenge ourselves, support each other, and make an impact one speech, one meeting, and one moment at a time
Happy reading!
TM HIMAHANSANEE SAMARAKKODY Vice President Public Relations 2024/25
PRESIDENT MESSAGE
Dear All
TM HIRUNI JAYASINGHE
President - 2024/25
finds you well and lies ahead! With just in the year, I am o announce that we met all our club’s mbership goals. As a d the prestigious title inguished Club the ognition a club can awarded to clubs that ip requirements and out of ten goals. I am have accomplished all chievement, we are on recognised with club oming Ovation 2025 This milestone would ossible without the and teamwork of our and every single club mitment is truly what ve, and I am deeply u
e welcomed 13 new g our vibrant club e hosted remarkable pactful initiatives, and opportunities with plans ahead Whether member or new to the to get involved, share ke the most of the together.
n just a community it upportive, and nonhere we grow, learn from our mistakes, and continuously refine our skills It is a place where confidence is built, friendships are formed, and lasting memories are made. Let’s continue to support one another and make this final term of the year truly unforgettable!
HSBC GSC HSBC GSC
TOASTMASTERS TOASTMASTERS
HSBC GSC Toastmasters Club, a proud affiliate of Toastmasters International, has been shaping confident speakers and leaders since its charter on March 1, 2016
Identified as Club 05231508, we thrive in Area 1, Division D of the dynamic District 82
Toastmasters International Mission
We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders
Toastmasters International is a globally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals to become confident communicators and effective leaders. Established in 1924, it has grown into a vast network of over 300,000 members in 15,800+ clubs across 149 countries.
We build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence
Club Mission District 82 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.
Toastmasters International Envisioned Future
To be the first-choice provider of dynamic, high-value, experiential communication and leadership skills development.
Core Values
Integrity | Respect | Service | Excellence
At the heart of Toastmasters is a structured yet flexible learning experience that helps individuals enhance their public speaking, leadership, and interpersonal skills through hands-on practice and constructive feedback. The program is designed to cater to people from all backgrounds whether you're a seasoned professional, an aspiring leader, or someone looking to overcome the fear of public speaking, Toastmasters provides a supportive and encouraging environment to help you grow
Each club operates on a meetingbased system where members take on various speaking and leadership roles, participate in engaging speech projects, and receive valuable mentorship The Pathways learning program further personalizes the journey, allowing members to develop skills relevant to their personal and professional goals
More than just a speaking club, Toastmasters is a transformative experience that builds confidence, fosters collaboration, and equips individuals with the tools to succeed in any setting
Join the movement and discover how Toastmasters can help you “Empower, Inspire, and Lead”.
HSBC GSC TMC
In the fast-paced world of business, effective communication and leadership are not just valuable skills they are essential. HSBC Global Service Center Toastmasters Club has consistently demonstrated excellence, proving that professional growth and personal transformation go hand in hand. As part of a global brand, this club is more than just a local initiative; it represents HSBC’s commitment to developing confident speakers and strong leaders worldwide
Toastmasters International, a 100-year-old organization, is dedicated to empowering individuals through structured yet dynamic learning experiences It is not just a program to refine communication and leadership it is a space where individuals evolve into the best versions of themselves. Through engaging speeches, constructive feedback, and hands-on leadership roles, members embark on a journey of self-discovery and continuous improvement.
Dr Ralph C Smedley, the visionary founder of Toastmasters, once said, “We learn best in moments of enjoyment ” This philosophy lies at the heart of every Toastmasters club, including HSBC GSC Toastmasters. Leadership and communication are not just skills to be mastered; they are experiences to be lived, enjoyed, and refined through practice
The beauty of Toastmasters is that you don’t have to start as a leader you just need the willingness to learn True leaders are not born; they are shaped through
challenges, perseverance, and the courage to step out of their comfort zones HSBC Global Service Center Toastmasters Club embodies this transformation, offering a unique platform where professionals can test, refine, and elevate their leadership skills.
Beyond communication and leadership, Toastmasters builds individuals as a whole. It fosters confidence, resilience, and the ability to inspire and uplift others Every meeting is an opportunity to grow, every speech a chance to inspire, and every role a step toward leadership
As HSBC Global Service Center Toastmasters Club continues to thrive, its impact extends beyond its meetings— shaping workplaces, strengthening communities, and transforming lives The journey ahead is filled with possibilities, and the best is yet to come.
Keep growing, keep inspiring, and keep leading!
DTM GANGA FERNANDO
The Competitive Edge for Corporate Professionals
In today’s fast-paced corporate world, technical skills alone are not enough to stand out. Whether you’re leading a meeting, pitching an idea, or managing a team, your ability to communicate with confidence, think critically, and lead effectively can set you apart This is where Toastmasters becomes a game-changer for professionals.
Enhancing Executive Presence – In any corporate setting, how you present yourself matters. Toastmasters helps professionals refine their speech structure, body language, and vocal variety, ensuring they command attention and deliver messages with impact
Mastering Impromptu Speaking – In meetings, you’re often asked for your opinion on the spot Table Topics trains you to think quickly and respond with clarity, a crucial skill for business discussions, negotiations, and decisionmaking.
Delivering Powerful Presentations –
Whether it’s a boardroom presentation or a client pitch, Toastmasters equips you with the ability to engage your audience, simplify complex ideas, and deliver with confidence key skills for career growth.
Becoming an Influential Leader –Leadership is not about authority; it’s about influence Through club roles, evaluations, and mentorship, Toastmasters provides a safe space to develop leadership skills, allowing professionals to manage teams, inspire action, and drive results more effectively.
Turning Feedback into Growth –Constructive feedback is essential for improvement. Toastmasters teaches professionals how to give and receive feedback effectively, fostering a workplace culture of continuous learning and development
Standing Out in Your Career – The best opportunities often go to those who can communicate their ideas persuasively Whether it’s a promotion, a leadership role, or a client deal, strong communication skills give you the competitive edge you need
Incorporating Toastmasters into a corporate environment doesn’t just build better speakers it builds confident, adaptable, and impactful leaders And in the business world, that’s what makes the difference
DTM NIROSHAN NADARAJAH
PROGRAM QUALITY DIRECTOR 2024/25
In the journey from academia to the professional arena, individuals often realize that while personal effort and determination spark initial success, true achievement in the corporate world blooms through collaboration and effective communication Navigating a landscape bustling with diverse stakeholders, including customers, peers, subordinates, and superiors, requires a rich tapestry of communication skills
To cultivate a culture of open dialogue, organizations must encourage employees to share their insights assertively Many companies grapple with this cultural evolution due to employees' hesitance rooted in inadequate communication skills and confidence
This gap not only hampers decisionmaking and creativity but can stifle teamwork and workplace cohesion. When communication falters, employees may withdraw their valuable contributions from crucial discussions, potentially limiting the organization’s innovation and growth Moreover, such barriers may cause internal disputes and customer dissatisfaction, further impacting business success
Addressing these challenges calls for innovative solutions that foster both confidence and competence Traditional training methods, often limited to passive consumption of materials or periodic workshops, frequently fail to instigate lasting transformation
Toastmasters offers a structured and nurturing environment where employees can hone their communication skills Through regular meetings and leadership exercises, participants develop public speaking skills and build confidence They transform to become better
communicators and leaders through consistent practice and constructive feedback.
In today’s competitive landscape, investing in a Toastmasters program transcends mere skill enhancement It is a strategic investment in creating a thriving organization that prioritizes unlocking the true potential of its employees I am certain, embracing Toastmasters as a strategic partner will propel HDPL towards unparalleled heights of achievement and success !
CLUB GROWTH DIRECTOR 2024-2025
E m p o w e r i n g C o m m u n i c a t i o n t h r o u g h T o a s t m a s t e r s
TM BHATHIYA HETTIARACHCHI
My dear Members of HSBC GSC Toastmasters Club,
As the Division Director for Division D, District 82 Toastmasters International, it is my pleasure to highlight the outstanding achievements and contributions of the HSBC GSC Toastmasters Club in this year’s newsletter This club has truly exemplified the core values of Toastmasters by not only fostering personal growth among its members but also positively impacting the broader community
At HSBC GSC Toastmasters, the focus has always been on helping members refine their communication and leadership skills, essential tools for success in any corporate environment. Through regular meetings, role-playing, and constructive feedback, members have gained confidence in delivering presentations, leading teams, and engaging in high-level professional interactions The skills developed within this club extend beyond the Toastmasters meetings and have a lasting impact on the professional lives of the members, making them more effective leaders and communicators within their organization.
I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to TM Hiruni Jayasinghe, the Club President, and the entire Executive Committee for their tireless dedication throughout the year Their leadership and hard work have played a pivotal role in ensuring the continued growth and success of the club. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in every meeting and every event organized, setting a standard that others strive to emulate.
One of the standout qualities of HSBC GSC Toastmasters is their unwavering support for other clubs within our division and beyond. They have shown an exceptional willingness to collaborate, attend area, division, and district events, and share knowledge with others. Their presence at these events in large numbers demonstrates a commitment not only to their own D I V I S I O N D I R E C T O R D I V I S I O N D
club's growth but also to the growth of Toastmasters as a whole. Their collaborative spirit helps create a stronger Toastmasters community, where members and clubs can learn and grow together.
The HSBC GSC Toastmasters Club has also made a remarkable impact on the community by executing Youth Leadership Programs By helping young individuals build their confidence and communication skills, the club has contributed significantly to the development of future leaders Their dedication to empowering the next generation is truly commendable, and I am proud of the role they have played in shaping these young lives
In closing, I want to congratulate the HSBC GSC Toastmasters Club on an incredibly successful year. Your commitment to personal development, community service, and support for other Toastmasters clubs is truly inspiring. I look forward to the continued success of the club in the upcoming months and wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Y A S H O D A R A
Club has truly exemplified the core values of Toastmasters by not only fostering personal growth among its members but also positively impacting the broader community H e m a c h a n d r a
We have seen and experienced the opportunities that qualifications like a degree, postgraduate studies, or a doctorate can bring to our lives But society or even individuals rarely emphasizes the incredible impact that enhancing our communication skills can have on our personal and professional growth.
As we pursued these qualifications, little attention was given to another vital element crucial for our selfgrowth
If we had understood this in the early stages of our lives, we wouldn’t have focused solely on our academic qualifications, we would have taken action to develop this crucial skill: communication You may have thought about the importance of this skill, but perhaps you haven’t yet realized how much its absence is limiting your growth and potential
Think of any superior you admire for their strong leadership Do you know their academic qualifications? You may or may not , but what truly stands out is how they’ve made you feel It’s the motivation and inspiration they’ve given you that pushes you to go the extra mile and give your best to your organization
The communication skills of great leaders may come naturally, or they may have developed them over time Either way, what leaves a lasting impact is the way their words and actions inspire and influence those around them, and that’s what you remember most about your superiors.
How you make others feel and how
you inspire your team to go the extra mile, that’s what truly defines your leadership It’s not your qualifications, but your ability to motivate, uplift, and create a sense of purpose.
This ability to inspire through communication and connection is at the very core of what we learn in Toastmasters
A commonality in the context of public speaking, but this natural phobia that almost all humans have is something that can be curtailed for a better version of self-confidence. But you need to assess a self-reflection as to whether you are in fear of the audience or fear of selfconfidence Below are a few tips to strengthen the stage presentation for public speaking:
1. Try different stage fear killing techniques
If you are someone who loves singing to karaoke or dancing, practice this everyday with the thought that you are doing this in front of a crowd (in front of a mirror), this will boost and bring out the energy with the right level of confidence needed to kill the fear of performing on stage
2. Practice body language postures
With the expressions and emotions flowing with the action verbs that you utter, make sure that such actions fill the content, once your body goes in line with the same, you will have your focus on the story on your mind that eventually make you stage fear free without you even realizing
3. Visualize success
When you visualize success and positive achievement, it gives you a mental affirmation of a higher self confidence and trust to perform, hence to destroy fear is to subsidize by positivity
Therefore, understanding whether your fear is actually with self-confidence or whether it’s the audience which is actually impacting is important to set objectives accordingly to build up a powerful mindset in delivering a presentation with the right body language. S T A G E F R I G H T S T A G E F R I G H T
THE TOASTMASTERS THE TOASTMASTERS THE TOASTMASTERS TOOLKIT TOOLKIT TOOLKIT
As an ambivert, I always enjoyed connecting with people, but stage fear held me back from speaking up in public That changed when I joined HSBC GSC Toastmasters. The supportive environment and regular practice helped me break through my fears I went from feeling nervous during small speeches to confidently addressing large audiences.
Toastmasters didn’t just improve my speaking skills; it unlocked new abilities that helped me grow in my job role It sharpened my leadership skills, enhanced my confidence, and made me more comfortable guiding others. These skills have been invaluable in my role of internal mentor in my process, especially when being a mentor for staff and helping them navigate challenges.
Being the Secretary of the club also taught me organization, teamwork, and the importance of lifting others up. Toastmasters transformed me into someone ready to embrace new opportunities, both on stage and in my career and for that, I’ll always be grateful.
Here are some valuable techniques that helped me break through the barriers in my public speaking journey.
The "Power Pause" Technique – Reduce filler words and use short pauses to sound more confident.
Storytelling for Impact – Use real-life examples to make your message memorable and engaging.
Active Listening for Stronger Conversations –Focus on the speaker, acknowledge key points, and respond thoughtfully.
Think on Your Feet: The 3-Step Formula –Structure quick responses using PREP (Point, Reason, Example, Point).
The "Mirror & Mentor" Method for Growth –Record yourself to spot improvements and seek mentor feedback
T M N u z k i A h a m e d
W I T H I M PAC T
In today’s fast-paced corporate world, effective communication and leadership skills are key to career growth As someone who is always eager to upskill and excel in my career, I joined Toastmasters International with the goal of enhancing my public speaking and leadership abilities.
Little did I know, this decision would completely transform my confidence and communication style, opening doors to incredible opportunities within the organization
Through structured pathway projects and regular speaking sessions, I gradually began to refine my communication skills and build confidence on stage Each speech, each evaluation, and every role I took up helped me improve my presentation style and handle challenging situations with ease The supportive and encouraging environment gave me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone and take on bigger responsibilities within the organization.
What truly made an impact was the realworld exposure I gained I was given the opportunity to host multiple corporate events, something I never imagined myself doing before I am also grateful for the opportunity to meet and connect with individuals from various career band levels and backgrounds, from
junior executives to senior management and industry leaders This diverse networking experience has been instrumental in expanding my professional connections, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations within the corporate world.
Today, I can confidently say that Toastmasters has played a pivotal role in shaping my career and personal growth If you're someone looking to enhance your communication skills, build confidence, and grow as a leader, Toastmasters is the platform that can truly unlock your potential and accelerate your career growth.
B e y o n d t h e O r d i n a r y Y o u B e y o n d t h e O r d i n a r y Y o u
Public speaking is a skill that can transform not just the speaker but also the audience. Whether you are speaking to a small crowd or a large gathering, your voice to speak can leave a lasting impression To become the best speaker you can be, you must rise above the standard and master the art of preparation, planning, and presentation
Preparing for Your Speech
The basics of an effective speech starts with preparation. When you get onto the stage, you must establish your objectives in clear terms Ask yourself: What do I want to achieve from this speech? To set yourself up for success, consider establishing three general goals:
Make them know who you are
Give them a reason to hear you out.
Give them a structure they can easily follow
An effective title of a speech is essential it must be interesting and challenging enough to immediately attract the attention of the audience Furthermore, the incorporation of strong words and great quotations may add depth to your message. However, in drawing inspiration from outside sources, don’t forget that your speech must be unique and uniquely yours
Organisation is equally crucial A well-structured speech proceeds logically from one idea to the next, and thus it is easier for the audience to hear and remember. Research your topic thoroughly, structure your main points, and anticipate some of the questions your audience will have
Organising Your Speech
A well-structured speech has three components: the beginning, middle, and end. All three are essential to sustaining clarity and effectiveness
Beginning – Engage the audience with a compelling opening statement, a query, or a personal experience Set the tone and establish credibility right from the start.
Middle – Present your key ideas in a logical sequence. Use definite transitions to maintain flow and incorporate quotes or strong assertions to reinforce your message
Conclusion – Recap your key points and conclude on a strong note A link back to the introduction has a fullcircle impact that resonates with your audience.
Relevance to the audience is also crucial Make your speech interested in the issues and experiences of your audience. Additionally, time is an issue ensure that your speech is short but impactful within the time allowed
Giving Your Speech
The way you deliver your speech is as important as the message. How you utilise the speaking area can make your presentation livelier and engaging Project confidence, make eye contact, and utilise correct gestures to emphasise the key points.
Your body posture and attire also play an important role in how your message is interpreted. Wearing fitting attire and maintaining confident body language can boost your credibility Also, control of vocal variance controlling your volume, tone, and rate of speech makes your speech richer and captures the interest of the audience
Pronunciation and delivery also matter. Talk purposefully and understandably, and avoid using filler words that weaken your message Most of all, show enthusiasm! Your enthusiasm and self- assurance will inspire and interest your audience.
Finally, practice makes perfect Rehearse your speech 20 times or more before delivering it. That would enable you to refine your content, practice your delivery, and attain a smooth confident presentation
In order to be a good public speaker, one must put in effort, prepare extensively, and rehearse With clear goals in mind, an organised speech, and confidence in delivery, you can break away from the average you and unleash your potential Approach each speaking opportunity as a learning, connecting, and motivating experience. Best of luck with speaking!
TM HIRUNI JAYASINGHE
I walked into my first Toastmasters meeting feeling uncertain, but the warm welcome from the HSBC Toastmasters team instantly put me at ease As the meeting unfolded, I realized Toastmasters is more than just a platform for improving public speaking — it’s a space that nurtures confidence, leadership, and personal growth Through engaging speeches, constructive feedback, and a supportive community, I discovered my potential and gained skills that extend beyond the stage This journey has been transformative, and I truly believe Toastmasters offers a golden opportunity for anyone looking to develop their communication and leadership abilities It’s an experience worth embracing!
Toastmasters has been an amazing experience, even in just my first two meetings! The warm welcome and supportive environment made me feel comfortable right away, and that actually motivated me to find time somehow to attend the meetings Each session provides a great mix of learning, fun, and encouragement, helping me gradually improve my confidence and speech skills The feedback is constructive and motivating, making it easier to grow I love the opportunity to connect with inspiring people who share a passion for selfimprovement. I’m excited to continue this journey, refine my communication skills, and discover my full potential with Toastmasters! Let’shear from
Attending the HSBC GSC Toastmasters meeting as a guest was an enriching experience. The club exuded a warm and welcoming vibe, making me feel at ease from the moment I walked in. The meeting was exceptionally well-organized, with a clear structure that flowed seamlessly from one segment to the next The members were supportive and encouraging, creating a safe space for everyone to practice and grow their public speaking skills. It was inspiring to witness such camaraderie and dedication to selfimprovement I left feeling motivated and eager to return
Thank you for the wonderful experience!
TM Sithmini Sirithunga
TM Shrinivasan
TM Nilupuli Gunawardena
TMShyndavi
TMNathesh
TM Pubuduni
CONTEST WINNERS
INTERNATIONAL SPEECH CONTEST
Winner - Theshika Wellappili
1st Runner Up - Siranka Lanarole
2nd Runner Up - Shyndavi Kumar
TABLE TOPICS
SPEECH CONTEST
INTERNATIONAL SPEECH CONTEST
2nd Runner Up - Theshika Wellappili
Winner-ShanukshanInpanathan
1stRunnerUp-ShyndaviKumar
2ndRunnerUp-RandiniAmbagahawita
TABLE TOPICS
SPEECH CONTEST
CLUB ACHIEVEMENTS
2018/2019 - Golden Club Award
2ndRunnerUp-ShanukshanInpanathan
2020/2021 - Golden Club Award
2021/2022 - Quality Club Award and Home Club of the Area Director
2023/2024 - Quality Club Award and Home Club of the Area Director
President Distinguish Club for five consecutive years
BEYOND THE CLUB
PQD TEAM MEMBER - DIVISION D
ASSI. DIVISION DIRECTOR CGDIVISION I TM Randini Ambagahawita TM Siranka Lanarole
2nd & 4th Thursdays of each month
5.30PM -7.30PM
46thFloor - Auditorium at Mireka tower, Havelock City
