Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that builds confidence and teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs
TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL MISSION
We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.
DISTRICT MISSION
We build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence
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.
TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL CORE VALUES
Meeting Times: 2nd, & 4th Tuesdays of each month, 5:30 pm onwards
C O N T E N T S T A B L E O F 3 4 6 7 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
MEET THE EXCO EDITOR’S MESSAGE
MESSAGE FROM THE CLUB PRESIDENT
DTM LAKMALI RANATHUNGA
UNLOCKING LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL
TM SAMAN WALISINGHE
A 20 HOUR SPEECH MARATHON!
DTM ELIZA YULIANA
TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL TURNS 100
TM HANSANI KULARATNE
A SPOOKTACULAR EVENING
TM MADHURI KANNANGARA
YOU PLUS ONE
TM THILINA RANATHUNGA
MULTIVERSE
TM THILINA RANATHUNGA
THE LOGICAL LEAP
TM DULINA HERATH
THE ULTIMATE MEASURE OF A GREAT SPEECH
TM FARWEEZ IMAMUDEEN
ACHIEVEMENTS & EVENTS
SHINING NEWBIES
TM HASANTHI GAMAGE & DULHARI SENANAYAKE
DID YOU KNOW?
MEET THEEXCO
Public Relations
TM Hansani Kularatne
DTM Lakmali Ranathunga
Immediate Past
President
TM Amila Mathararachchi
Education
TM Methsiri Herath
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
TM Hansani Kularatne
CO-EDITOR
TM Thilina Ranathunga
Welcome to our newsletter, SPEAKSPIRE where speech meets inspiration. Toastmasters are on a journey venturing through all aspects of communication, public speaking, and leadership, the trifecta for personal growth Thus these pages are put together to elevate, educate, and entertain our dearest readers Whether you are a Toastmaster or an enthusiast, our hope is that these pages will be a gentle nudge, a warm embrace, encouraging you to take that next bold step towards becoming the best version of yourself
MESSAGE FROM THE CLUB PRESIDENT
It is a great pleasure, privilege, and indeed a great responsibility to serve as the President of Kandy Toastmasters Club in this centennial year of Toastmasters International. Kandy Toastmasters Club is a prestigious club that was started in 2006 as the first out-station club of District 82 It's a mature club of 18 years I joined the club as a speech crafter in 2008 and I am proud to say that I have 16 years of experience in the club.
Kandy Toastmasters Club has produced many eminent communicators and leaders, including three Distinguished Toastmasters (DTM): DTM Noorul Munawwara, DTM Jayalath Edirisinghe, and DTM Lakmali Ranatunga Not only that, Kandy Toastmasters Club has produced a District Director as well She is none other than DTM Noorul Munawwara, a charter member of Kandy
Currently, the club has 22 members, all of whom are very enthusiastic and actively completing educational projects in the Pathways programs according to their requirements. Every club member has a mentor, and all mentors take care of their mentees very well. We have a very friendly environment in the club, and everyone helps each other in every aspect The executive committee performs their duties to the fullest All seven club officers participated in officer training and know their responsibilities very well.
It is always challenging to be the President of the club. There are many tasks to complete throughout the year, including planning, implementing, documenting, and monitoring, while considering deadlines. However, I am very comfortable completing all required tasks because I have a very supportive executive committee and very generous club members
By DTM Lakmali Ranathunga
TM Sarath Gamini
The Charter President of Kandy Toastmasters club
An Engineer by profession Retired Engineer at the Water Board
DTM Jayalath Edirisinghe
An Engineer by profession
Working as a senior lecturer in the University of Peredeniya Served as a club
TM M.R. Ranatunga
An Engineer by profession
Retired General Manager in Ceylon Electricity Board
TM Ranjith Dissanayake
An Engineer by profession
Served as a club officer for 03 times
TM Indika Abeysooriyarachchi
The General Manager of ACBT Campus Kandy Branch
Served as a club officer for 01 times
TM Shanthini Shanmugaraja
Served as a club officer for 03 times
TM Sali Ziabudeen
An Engineer by profession
Served as a club officer for 03 times
TM Farweez Immamudeen
A Speech Academy Director by profession
Served as a club officer for 03 times
TM Jayalath Edirisinghe
An Engineer by profession
Working as a senior lecturer in the University of Peredeniya
Served as a club officer for 06 times
TM Amila Mathararachchi
An English teacher
Served as a club officer for 02 times
DTM Noorul Munawwara
An Engineer by profession
Retired Additional General Manager in Ceylon Electricity Board
TM Sarath Thilakaratne
An Engineer by profession
Served as a club officer for 04 times
TM Jayampathy Dissanayake
A Medical Doctor by profession
Working as a senior Lecturer at the University of Peradeniya
TM Nandana Ranatunga
An Engineer by profession
Served as a club officer for 04 times
TM Fuzmil Thoufic
Professional in Education sector Working as the Chairman Westwood International
Served as a club officer for 03 times
DTM Lakmali Ranatunga
A Veterinary Surgeon by profession Consultant for ISO Quality Standards
Served as a club officer for 09 times
TM Methsiri Herath
A Medical Doctor by profession
Served as a club officer for 03 times
TM Chandra Herath
A Dental Surgeon by profession
Served as a club officer for 02 times
TM Kamala Rasheed
A Social worker by profession
Served as a club officer for 02 times
DTM Lakmali Ranatunga
A Veterinary Surgeon by profession Consultant for ISO Quality Standards
Served as a club officer for 10 times
THE TOASTMASTERS JOURNEY
By TM Saman Walisinghe Division Director Division J
As the Division Director of Division J, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible opportunities for growth that Toastmasters leadership roles provide. Leadership in Toastmasters is not just about holding a title, it’s about developing the skills that prepare us for success both within and outside of the organization.
One of the most valuable aspects of Toastmasters leadership is the chance to cultivate communication and decision making skills in real world situations Whether serving as a club officer or taking on a district role, each leadership position challenges us to think strategically, manage time effectively, and navigate diverse teams toward a common goal. These experiences translate into better professional performance, as leaders learn how to motivate, inspire, and guide others.
Additionally, Toastmasters leadership nurtures self-confidence and resilience Every leader faces challenges, but with the support of our fellow members and the Toastmasters structure, we grow stronger.
I have found that even the most difficult situations become opportunities for learning, collaboration, and innovation. The personal connections we make through leadership are equally rewarding. As we work together to elevate our clubs and divisions, we form bonds that extend beyond our meetings, building a network of supportive friends and mentors.
In Division J, respecting the Toastmasters International core values we uphold our Division core values of Integrity, Inclusivity, Innovation, and Engagement. Through leadership, we embody these values, transforming our members and our community.
I encourage every Toastmaster to explore the wealth of leadership opportunities available, as the benefits of personal, professional, and interpersonal are truly limitless.
Together, we can transform, grow, and succeed. Let’s embrace the journey!
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
The World Travelers Toastmasters Club, a dynamic group with members from 14 countries, has a reputation for taking an innovative approach to Toastmasters events. In celebration of the Centennial of Toastmasters International, we wanted to create a truly unique experience that honors the global legacy of Toastmasters
Our vision?
A 20 hour,
by Eliza Yuliana, DTM
Organizing Chair of Celebrating The Centennial of Toastmasters, Honoring The Past Inspiring The Future
virtual marathon of inspiring speeches beginning in New Zealand and concluding in Hawaii featuring 100 distinguished speakers who would take us on a journey across time zones, “traveling the world passportless” and celebrating the universal reach of Toastmasters.
To elevate the celebration, we set a challenge to invite only high-ranking, former Toastmasters leaders: Past International Presidents, Past International Directors, Past Region Advisors, World Champion of Public Speaking, Finalist and semifinalist and Presidential Citation awardees. This would embody our theme, “Honoring the Past and Inspiring the Future,” through the stories and wisdom of those who’ve shaped and championed Toastmasters
The structure we developed is a first of its kind: 20 hours, broken down into 10 meetings, each organized by a different World Travelers team leader This approach called for not only logistical skills but also trust, teamwork, and resilience as each leader took on the responsibility of organizing their segment from the ground up Leading a regular meeting may be routine, but securing notable past leaders as guest speakers added an exciting challenge.
Yet, through collaborative effort and mutual support, each team leader rose to the occasion, transforming this event into a memorable and growthfilled experience for us all
As the organizing chair, this project has been an incredibly rewarding achievement. Initially, I questioned my own ability to mentor others, but watching our members grow in confidence and capability has been deeply gratifying For many, this event presented a rare opportunity to interact with the very leaders who had shaped Toastmasters' history, creating moments of connection and learning they never dreamed possible
This celebration has been a fivemonth journey of perseverance, marked by setbacks, successes, and many lessons along the way Despite initial hurdles and rejections, we kept pushing forward and were ultimately able to confirm 103 speakers, exceeding our original goal. Although this was organized as a club event, its impact has reached across the Toastmasters community worldwide
We are deeply grateful to the mentors and supporters who guided us throughout this journey. For World Travelers, this event has been a transformative experience, strengthening our connection to past leaders and honoring their invaluable contributions. Many of our distinguished guests expressed heartfelt gratitude, knowing their legacies remain cherished, while their stories continue to inspire us to advance the Toastmasters mission.
I’m proud that we haven’t just created followers but new leaders testament to the club’s spirit and commitment As the African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” This Centennial Celebration has proven that, together, World Travelers can accomplish something truly extraordinary.
From its inception at Santa Ana YMCA, Toastmasters International has transformed into a global powerhouse in communication and leadership development The first official club meeting attracted 20-30 men eager to improve their speaking skills, establishing a format that would endure for decades.
Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Toastmasters clubs spread rapidly across the United States, incorporating in 1932. Women were officially welcomed into the organization in 1973, marking a pivotal moment in its evolution. The organization's commitment to inclusive growth led to its expansion beyond American shores, reaching countries worldwide.
The Toastmasters International educational program itself evolved significantly from Smedley's original handwritten guidelines. In the early years, he developed "Basic Training" and "Beyond Basic Training" pamphlets, providing fundamental speaking principles After World War II, these materials gradually transformed into a more structured system By the 1970s, this evolved into the familiar manual-based program with two distinct tracks: Communication and Leadership.
Members progressed from the basic manual through advanced projects, earning designations like Competent Communicator and Advanced Leader. This traditional system, refined over decades by educational committees, served as the organization's backbone until 2018. Then came Pathways, developed through five years of cross-cultural research. This digital platform offers 11 unique learning paths, personalizing the educational journey while preserving Smedley's core principles of learning through practice and feedback.
As Toastmasters celebrates its centennial in 2024, its influence on public speaking, leadership development, and personal growth continues to resonate globally, empowering individuals to become more confident communicators and leaders.
District 82 marked this historic milestone with a series of memorable events in Colombo, Sri Lanka The celebrations commenced with an elegant sit-down dinner at the historic Galle Face Hotel on October 25th, where the district also unveiled a commemorative postal cover honoring the organization's 100-year legacy Two days later, on October 27th, members gathered at Independence Square for the Smedley Walk, embodying the organization's continuing journey of empowering individuals to become more confident communicators and leaders. Kandy Toasmasters were most excited to partcipate in these honorable celebrations. These centennial celebrations not only honored the past but also reinforced Toastmasters' enduring impact on personal and professional development worldwide
ASPOOKTACULAR EVENING
By TM Madhuri Kannangara
The Halloween-themed Toastmasters meeting of Kandy Toastmasters Club, held on October 22nd, was a super exciting occasion. All the spirits and ghosts of Kandy Toastmasters gathered at the venue as usual at dusk. Among them, the Queen of Hearts, Captain Haddock, witches, Dracula, and other spooky characters made the festival unforgettable and mysterious.
The decorations, headed by the scarecrow, illuminated pumpkin lamps, walls covered with cobwebs, spiders, and bats, increased the ghostly feeling. The Round Robin session and table topics were woven around Halloween, which made the meeting uniquely exciting and frightful for everyone!
Time and again, the room became dark when the General Evaluator appeared on the stage. The Queen of Hearts, the president, shared mysterious Halloween stories with the members. The ghost of Captain Haddock navigated the team as the Toastmaster of the Day The skillful prepared speeches and evaluation session were remarkable.
At the end of the day, all the ghosts were sent away with candies and sweets, marking another super exciting evening.
By TM Thilina Ranathunga
As Toastmasters, a change of pace is always welcome, and that’s exactly what we experienced with our themed meeting, “You Plus One.” This concept, introduced by District 82 encouraged Kandy Toastmasters to bring a guest and introduce them to the magic of our meetings. The event was held at the cozy Black Bean Café in Kandy
The venue offered a breathtaking view of the Kandyan mountains, which, as evening fell, were cloaked in darkness but adorned with the twinkling lights of hillside homes, creating a truly magical ambiance. Each attendee received a beautifully crafted badge, thoughtfully designed by TM Madhuri.
The guests thoroughly enjoyed the meeting, with some even braving the Table Topics session and sharing their thoughts The energy in the room was infectious, with everyone excited and the guests expressing a desire to return, bringing more friends along next time
This unique and rewarding meeting was not only a wonderful opportunity to connect with new faces but also a reminder of how Toastmasters continues to create memorable and impactful experiences for all.
Joining Toastmasters is considered as a life-changing experience, but during this joint meeting, we truly had an “out of this universe” experience Kandy Toastmasters and Dowels Toastmasters came together on the 12th of October at the Teaching Hospital Peradeniya under the theme “Multiverse: Bridging Parallel Universes.” It felt like an early Halloween, with no Toastmasters in sight, but only their alternate-universe selves. There were gangsters, Indian actors, fishermen, vampires, K-pop idols, robots, and even someone from the age of Ravana
Dowels Toastmasters arranged the venue, refreshments, and even a changing room, which was a thoughtful touch.
It saved us from walking through the hospital in costume and worrying patients or doctors. The Toastmaster of the Day gave a great introduction, diving into multiverses and branching timelines. The Round Robin session was especially entertaining as everyone introduced their paralleluniverse persona Prepared speeches focused on leadership, which was insightful, while the table topics session added a twist: each speaker picked a card with a Toastmaster’s name and had to speak about their costume.
The meeting ended with a lively game session where teams acted out scenarios, proving that Toastmasters make great actors too It was a unique and unforgettable day filled with fun and learning!
LOGICAL THE ALE P
By TM Dulina Herath
Toastmasters is all about communication, but the purpose of communication, above all, is to externalise our thoughts to others.
A good communicator must thus also necessarily be a good thinker.
However, there are many blindspots to how we go about this process of thinking, and these blindspots can lead us to come to the wrong conclusions about various things. One solution to this faulty thinking, in my opinion, is to understand “logical fallacies”. Logical fallacies are basically just the various kinds of blindspots we may suffer from in our thinking. There’s a whole list of them, and I highly recommend you go through them all online, but for this essay I’ll just list two of the most common
1
Appeal to authority
This is basically when we believe something is correct simply because someone who we are expected to respect, like a teacher or a parent, said so, and we would cite them whenever someone challenges our opinions
We would say things like “my parents said so” or “that’s what my teacher said” when we are asked for the evidence and reasoning behind our opinions. The issue here is that you are essentially shifting the task of critical thinking to another person, and not only does this mean you are not thinking for yourself, but it also means that any errors or biases that your chosen authority figure has will be passed on to you Such errors and biases, as we have seen repeatedly in human history, will lead to incorrect and even dangerous conclusions.
Ad hominem 2
It’s a Latin term meaning “to the person”, and is when we attack the character of the person saying something instead of the content of what they’re saying. For example, if an untidy person says something that you disagree with, you would counter them by saying something about their untidiness, and would ignore their actual words This kind of irrelevant focus on the character of the person, at the cost of ignoring the content of what they really said, is what is called an ad hominem. One can easily see why this is both unfair and unproductive.
While there are many other logical fallacies not covered here, I hope you've learned what logical fallacies are and how understanding them can help you think and communicate better
A Strong Script Excellent Delivery
By TM Farweez Imamudeen
A weak script with great delivery or vice versa will always fall short Both are necessary for a speech to truly shine. But crafting and delivering a great speech doesn’t stop there Avoiding common mistakes is equally critical
Speak to the Audience's Needs: Focus on what they need to hear, not what you want to say. Understand their expectations and address their interests.
Trim the Fat: Every detail must serve the core message. If a beloved story or fun fact doesn’t add value, leave it out.
Use Clear Language: Avoid jargon or complex terms unless you can explain them A great speech should be inclusive and easy to follow
Remain Neutral: Avoid prejudice or judgmental comments that may alienate or divide your audience
Respect the Clock: Exceeding your time slot is one of the quickest ways to lose goodwill.
Time is the most precious resource your audience has When they give it to you, honor it by being concise, engaging, and purposeful. A great speech doesn’t just inform, it creates a memorable connection. Make every word count, and leave your audience inspired
TM Thilina ,TM Farweez and TM Methsiri Herath will be contesting at the mid-year division conference of Dividion J & H Kandy Toastmasters Club won the Smedley award
By TM Dulhari Senanayake
public speaking skills, and developed a clearer sense of self-expression These lessons have extended far beyond the club, positively impacting my career and personal relationships
I encourage anyone seeking growth, to take the leap and join Toastmasters. It's a journey of discovery, and the rewards are priceless!
By TM Hasanthi Gamage
The 7-38-55 Rule of Communication:
Albert Mehrabian's famous research suggests that only 7% of communication is verbal (the actual words), 38% is vocal (tone, pitch, volume), and 55% is non-verbal (body language). This means that for public speakers, how you say something is dramatically more important than what you actually say D I D Y O U K N O W ?
Record-Breaking Speakers:
Toastmasters International has helped members overcome severe speech impediments and extreme stage fright!
Bizarre Milestone:
Toastmasters have given speeches in some truly unexpected places - from submarine decks to Antarctic research stations!
Unexpected Alumni:
Famous Toastmasters include Mark Victor Hansen (Chicken Soup for the Soul author), Tim Ferriss (bestselling author), and professional athletes! D I D Y O U K N O W ?
Emotional Transportation:
Speeches that tell stories activate more areas of the brain than purely factual presentations
Neurologically, listeners don't just hear a storythey experience it, with the same brain regions lighting up as if they were living the experience themselves.
Audience Attention Span: The average adult attention span is now shorter than a goldfish's - approximately 8 seconds. This means public speakers must:
Change vocal tone every 30 seconds
Use varied delivery techniques
Incorporate storytelling or unexpected elements
sP INTO EEC TURNING INSPIRATION H
714153038 DTM LakamaliRanathunga
Meeting Times: 2nd, & 4th Tuesdays of each month, 5:30 pm onwards
