Marketers Toastmasters- The TORCHBEARERS

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WELCOME TO MARKETERS TOASTMASTERS Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that builds confidence and teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs that meet online and in person. In a supportive community or corporate environment, members prepare and deliver speeches, respond to impromptu questions, and give and receive constructive feedback. It is through this regular practice that members are empowered to meet personal and professional communication goals.

MEETING DETAILS Every 2nd & 4th Thursday

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

6:00 - 8:30 PM

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL CORE VALUES

RCU Skills Centre, Rajakeeya Mawatha, Colombo 7

Integrity | Respect | Service | Excellence

TOASTMASTERS DISTRICT 82 MISSION We build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence.

CONTACT US 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.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 24/25

President: +94 75 266 4444 VP Education: +94 77 712 8585 VP Membership: +94 76 885 7903

Refined Sophistication, Inspire Change & Transform President

TM Franklin Paul

VP Education

TM Ashane Wadasinghe

VP Membership

TM Bhagya Rathnasiri

VP Public Relations

TM Vinu Balasuriya

Secretary

TM Ashen Jayathunga

Treasurer

TM Jayani Hiripitiyage

Sergeant At Arms

TM Sepali Dahanayake

VP Public Relations: +94 76 475 8534

@marketerstmc

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CONTENT

FROM THE EDITOR TM Vinu Balasuriya

From the Editor

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President’s Message

04

From the EXCO: Holding the Torch High

05

Weekend Wind with Marketers

07

Halloween Edition with IESL Toastmasters

07

In Conversation with DTM Niroshan

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The Contest Chair’s Guide

09

Journey of Toastmasters International

10

How to Toast Tastefully

12

A Message from the District Director

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16th Club Officer Installation Ceremony

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Behind the Winning Evaluation

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Passing the Torch: Meet our New Members

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The Lifeguard’s Journey

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Club Achievements & Highlights

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When I began working on this newsletter, I reached out to our club president, TM Franklin, for ideas on what to name it. His response caught me off guard: “What’s your purpose for the newsletter?”

I went blank. Initially, creating a newsletter was simply a club requirement; later, my purpose became clear.

More than fulfilling a requirement, It’s my way of showcasing the heart of our club; the vibrant community

Ovation 2024 Highlights

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and family we’ve built together. It’s about highlighting the true value of Toastmasters, which goes far beyond public

Mark Your Calendar

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speaking. It’s a place for personal and professional growth, leadership opportunities, and, support without judgement.

A massive thank you to everyone who shared their brilliant content—you’ve brought this newsletter to life! I’m especially grateful to the amazing EXCO for helping me balance my other duties during this time, the incredible past VPPRs of Marketers for their invaluable tips and guidance, the Division D PR team for their unwavering support and our fantastic District PR representatives who patiently clarified every doubt I had about PR work and newsletters.

This newsletter celebrates our journey, our growth, achievements, and the exciting moments yet to come.

Here’s to an unforgettable term filled with connections, laughter, and success! (And chicken puffs!)

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE In 2016, I came across the word Toastmasters for the first time. It was through an individual whose presence and communication skills were nothing short of inspiring. I later learned that he was a Toastmaster, and he left a lasting impression on me. However, my own Toastmasters journey began years later, in 2021. I didn’t join because of social media ads or a burning desire to improve my speaking or leadership skills. I joined because of the profound impact that individual had on me—a testament to the transformation Toastmasters fosters.

Today, I am honored to serve as the 16th President of the Marketers Toastmasters Club, leading a vibrant community of over 35 members. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine myself in an Executive Committee (EXCO) role.

When I was invited to be part of the EXCO team, selfdoubt loomed. Could I handle the role? Was I capable?

But the unwavering trust and support of the club members gave me the courage to say yes.

At Marketers Toastmasters Club, we thrive on a spirit of collective growth and support. Change is rarely a solo journey, and our members ensure no one walks that path alone.

This year, our motto is: Inspire Change and Transform.

We are a diverse group, united in purpose and action, working together to lift one another toward our greatest potential. From entrepreneurs to professionals, each member brings a unique perspective, adding strength to our shared vision.

Together, we are not just building better speakers or leaders—we are shaping a community that thrives on shared success, growth, and transformation. Let us all rise to this year’s challenge: to inspire change and transform—The best is yet to come!

TM FRANKLIN PAUL

16TH PRESIDENT MARKETERS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

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NOVEMBER 2024

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FROM THE EXCO: HOLDING THE TORCH HIGH

TM ASHANE WADASINGHE

TM BHAGYA RATHNASIRI

TM VINU BALASURIYA

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION

VICE PRESIDENT MEMBERSHIP

VICE PRESIDENT PUBLIC RELATIONS

Serving as the VP Education has been an incredibly rewarding journey of growth and connection.

When I first joined the EXCO, I thought the role was mainly about managing Pathways, setting agendas and simply getting my members to speak. But I quickly realized that being a leader here is far more personal and impactful.

Last year, I took my first steps into the world of Toastmasters, and it was an absolute whirlwind of new experiences and warm welcomes.

As a member, I felt supported and guided, but I didn't fully appreciate the incredible effort put in by the leaders behind the scenes.

If anyone thinks Toastmasters is only about public speaking, they’re missing out on so much more. I joined with the goal of improving my speaking skills, but my experience in EXCO has been transformative. I was able to tap into my creative side with this role.

Fast forward to this year, and suddenly I found myself in the hot seat as Vice President of Membership. At first, I was a bit overwhelmed. I am naturally introverted, and my day job is all about the nitty-gritty details. An extroverted leadership role? That seemed a bit out of my comfort zone! But the amazing EXCO team believed in me and helped me discover my own unique leadership style.

From designing posts to creating engaging content, it’s been incredibly fulfilling. There were moments of doubt along the way, but seeing everything come together in the end made it all worth it.

It means creating an atmosphere where members feel safe to step out of their comfort prerequisites, take that leap, and find their place on stage.

I had the challenge of delegation.

Being a cellist with my tasks, I believed, in my solos. But, when I was commissioned with a line of tasks, I was pushed to open up to, delegation. I believe it's the 9th wonder, after Compound Interest.

The amount of relief you find, in the arms of a band of friends is unparalleled.

And I believe, I'm slowly but surely, coming out of the cocoon of perfectionism to be a better leader, by delegating to empower my members to do great things.

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This is my first time in an EXCO role, and I’ve realized it's more than just a title. It’s about making a real difference in people’s lives.

It’s a privilege to help others discover their potential and grow as individuals.

Marketers Toastmasters isn’t just a club; it’s a family. It’s a safe space where passionate people can transform themselves.

I’m incredibly grateful for this club and the positive changes it’s brought to my life.

This journey wouldn’t have been as rewarding without the incredible support and encouragement from the EXCO and our members. Your help with the content and constant motivation have been invaluable.

Through this role, I’ve learned so much, from thinking creatively to managing tasks better. (I’ve even improved my stalking skills while searching for the best photos of our members on social media!)

I encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone and explore an EXCO role—it’s a great opportunity to develop new skills and grow!

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TM ASHEN JAYATHUNGA

TM JAYANI HIRIPITIYAGE

TM SEPALI DAHANAYAKE

SECRETARY

TREASURER

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS

Being part of the Executive Committee of a well-regarded Toastmasters club is a privilege that brings immense opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Becoming a part of our club’s EXCO as a new member has been an incredible learning curve.

Taking on the role of Treasurer, something I had never done before, was both challenging and rewarding.

Two years ago, I joined the Marketers Toastmasters Club, never expecting to become part of the EXCO. Yet here I am, proudly serving as the Sergeant at Arms, supported by the vibrant "little family" of EXCO members and the larger Marketers community.

Toastmasters provides a dynamic platform where leaders are nurtured, and communication skills are refined. Serving as an Exco member allows me to immerse myself in a professional working environment, collaborate with a diverse group of individuals.

I am honored to serve as the Secretary of the Marketers Toastmasters Club. It’s an absolute pleasure, and together, we aim to drive our club to new heights while fostering a culture of excellence and camaraderie.

Here’s to a fulfilling journey of growth, learning, and success as we continue to support and uplift each other in achieving our goals.

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With the support of the EXCO, we’ve been working towards ensuring our club's financial stability, so we can give back to our members in meaningful ways.

It's not just about managing the finances; it's about creating valuable opportunities for our members, from educational meetings and workshops to club trips, all to provide a truly enriching experience.

What has inspired me the most is seeing how everyone contributes with passion and dedication, working together to make our club a place where we can all grow. It’s about creating a space where each member feels supported and motivated, and knowing that I’ve played a role in this journey is something I’m proud of.

My vision for this year is to achieve elegance on a low budget —a goal that demands creativity, planning, managing, and precise timing. Though new to this realm, I thoroughly enjoy the challenges it brings.

Balancing my career and club responsibilities isn’t always easy, but my team consistently steps up when I’m unable to participate in events or planning.

Their unwavering support has been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey.

With fun, laughter, constructive criticism, and even the occasional argument, being part of EXCO has been an incredible experience that continues to inspire me every day.

NOVEMBER 2024

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THIRD SATURDAY CHARM:

WEEKEND WIND WITH MARKETERS Generally, Marketers, we meet on the 2nd and the 4th Thursday of every month. We call it the Rejuvenation Thursday, for apparent reasons.

But, the exco this year, decided to take it a notch further. To assure our members, have sight of each other, every week, thus, born The 3rd Saturday Morning of the Month.

And we name, that, The Weekend-Wind.

Not the one that blows, but the winddown, wind. he theme was, Wear Sports gear and BYOP (Bring Your Own PotLuck).

The morning started with an elusively great Basketball Session. Mainly because, the ones we least anticipated to be sporty, were scoring hoops, dribbling through and most importantly enjoying the time.

From afar, what I saw was, a bunch of Grown Kids, thoroughly enjoying the early morning tarmac, caring the least about being adults.

It's about seeing them enjoying their 3rd Saturday Morning of the Month, relieved from any accountability they have to the world outside.

Toastmasters is a holy ground I felt. A place, where people can find reverence for their joy.

After working for an entire week, coming to let go of that stress, and being who they are, without feeling judged, made me realize, that we truly have created a Club Called Home.

So, The 3rd Saturday Morning of the Month has become another reason to see the beautiful faces of our Marketers once more.

TM ASHANE WADASINGHE

HALLOWEEN EDITION WITH IESL TOASTMASTERS

DOUBLE THE CLUBS, DOUBLE THE CHILLS On the 24th of October, we celebrated a truly memorable Halloween meeting, held jointly with our beloved IESL Toastmasters. The atmosphere was electric, with members of both clubs dressed in an array of creative and spooky costumes, from angels and devils to superheroes like Batman and Superman. There were zombies and witches, representing both the good and bad sides of the world, nn

and I made my appearance as the Corpse Bride, patiently waiting for my true love to find me.

The meeting was filled with laughter, joy, and an abundance of enthusiasm. A series of fantastic speeches from both clubs kept the audience captivated, while the table topics session added an element of fun and spontaneity. Our evaluation segment stood out, offering valuable insights.

This joint meeting was undeniably one of our most successful, not just for the amazing costumes and entertainment, but also for the incredible opportunity to network, collaborate, and learn from one another. It was a night full of camaraderie and growth, and we’re sure everyone left with fond memories and new experiences.

TM NISHADI EGODAWATTA

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ELEVATING PROGRAM QUALITY

IN CONVERSATION WITH DTM NIROSHAN Discover insights from DTM Niroshan Nadarajah, our Program Quality Director, as he shares expert tips on goal setting and trends shaping the Toastmasters educational experience.

Any recent trends or innovations in program quality that are enhancing the educational experience?

Walking

Can you share 3 tips on how to set and achieve personal goals within Toastmasters?

through

the

convention

in

Anaheim,

particularly the 100-year exhibit, was fascinating—to see the historical educational materials and program outlines that have evolved over time.

1. Immerse yourself in Club Meetings: There is no other place than your home club to learn about yourself and understand why you joined Toastmasters. Strive to be there for every meeting possible and just be involved in the program, make speeches, do roles and have fun at the same time!

A significant shift in our organization’s journey of continuous

innovation

was

the

introduction

of

Pathways a few years ago. While it initially received mixed reviews, Toastmasters has taken note of the feedback and concerns. This October, members will

2. Find that idol: It could be a star speaker, a great mentor, a leader, or just a regular person. But there is something about them—positive vibes that will help you in your journey.

Learn from them, ask them, and in most cases, all are willing to help you.

experience

3. Strike a Balance: Toastmasters is addictive, but too much of it sometimes will dilute your focus, choose what's best for you, what works for you, and what is comfortable for you. You have to enjoy it, not be overwhelmed by it. It comes with a few years of experience to handle the volume of work in Toastmasters, especially in leadership positions beyond the club. But until that time, get a grip on the basics! The rest will flow smoothly.

other regions, our approach to conducting meetings,

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a

smoother

and

more

efficient

Pathways Learning Management System (LMS), addressing many of those critiques.

In addition to that, District 82 has consistently strived for excellence in program quality. Compared to some installations, and adhering to protocols has been a hallmark of quality. However, the journey of continuous improvement never ends, and it starts at the grassroots —the club level. I firmly believe that by focusing on enhancing the member experience at the club level, we ensure the long-term success of the entire Toastmasters organization.

NOVEMBER 2024

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The Contest Chair’s Guide

TM NISAL ADIKARI

14 contestants competed in each of the two contests.

The secret sauce to a record high contestant count My pathway in Toastmasters is Persuasive Influence, and if I hadn’t learned how to persuade and influence people, I would say my time in Toastmasters would have been wasted. When persuading or influencing someone, I never impose my needs on them.

Instead, I highlight the benefits of the opportunity, and everything falls into place.

Seasoned members didn’t need much convincing—they were already motivated by their past experiences.

New members, however, were initially hesitant. I shared my story of competing as a new Toastmaster, emphasizing that contests are not about winning but about personal growth and gaining valuable experience.

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Advice for Future Contest Masters

Event Management: Translating Contest Experience to Professional Skills

Anyone who knows me knows I’m an Excel enthusiast, and that’s true —I rely on Google Sheets or Excel for nearly everything. My key advice is to plan everything well in advance.

Spend a couple of days at the start listing every task with deadlines. Once the plan is in place, the rest is stress-free execution. This eliminates day-today stress by pre-planning making the process much smoother.

Event management isn’t something we’re typically taught unless we engage in extracurricular activities.

Opportunities like this offer rare and valuable self-development experiences. It involves numerous skills: team management, stakeholder coordination, time management, and ensuring a great member experience. This experience has given me practical tools that I’ll certainly use in my career.

NOVEMBER 2024

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JOURNEY OF TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL 1924 In Santa Ana, California, Smedley hosts the first club meeting of the Toastmasters organization we know today.

1926 The second Toastmasters club is chartered in Anaheim, California.

1930 The organization's first bulletin— The Gavel—is published.

1932 Toastmasters International is incorporated. The California Secretary of State officially files the Articles of Incorporation on December 19, 1932.

1933 The Toastmaster magazine is published and produced quarterly, replacing The Gavel.

1935 The first Toastmasters club outside North America is chartered in Southport, England.

1938 The first District is organized outside of the United States—District 18 in Scotland.

1946 The Inter-Club Speech Contest evolves into the International Speech and World Championship of Public Speaking™.

1965 Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, founder of Toastmasters, dies at age 87.

1970 Membership opens to women.

1977 Evelyn Jane Burgay, DTM, becomes the first woman to win the World Championship of Public Speaking.

1990 Toastmasters International charters its 10,000th club. Membership reaches 200,000.

2008 District 82 was established, encompassing over 60 clubs in Sri Lanka and India.

2018 The Pathways learning experience becomes the official education program.

2024 Toastmasters celebrates 100 years!

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NOVEMBER 2024

A

TOASTMASTERS

+270,000 MEMBERSHIP

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150

COUNTRIES

+14,000 CLUBS

NOVEMBER 2024

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HOW TO TOAST TASTEFULLY TM Ludmila Bopitiya

For the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of delivering toasts at my friends’ weddings—a role that has been nothing short of transformative for my journey as a speaker.

Each experience has left me with cherished memories and valuable lessons. Here are some of my tried-and-true methods to delivering a memorable wedding toast:

Grab Attention from the Start: Sri Lankan weddings are lively and full of energy, and it's not uncommon for aunties and uncles to be caught up in their own conversations. That’s why it's crucial to open with something captivating that resonates across generations. Skip the generic quotes from Pinterest; make your introduction personal and meaningful to create an instant connection.

Set the Tone before Introducing Yourself: Resist the urge to begin with your name or your connection to the bride or groom or the host.

Instead, express gratitude to the guests for gathering to celebrate this special day. Then, introduce yourself in a unique and memorable way.

Respect is Key: Weddings are all celebration and honor.

about

It’s essential to be mindful of your words and never risk nnnn

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damaging anyone’s reputation.

Being entrusted with the responsibility of delivering a toast is an honor, and it’s your duty to uphold that trust.

Read the Room: Before you launch into your speech, take a moment to gauge the energy and vibe of the crowd.

This will help you tailor your delivery to the mood of the room, ensuring your words resonate with the audience.

Always Have a Script: A well-prepared toast may only last a couple of minutes, but it’s a defining moment that sets the tone for the rest of the event.

Being organized with your thoughts not only shows respect for the occasion but also ensures a smooth delivery.

Go Old School: Personally, I avoid bringing my phone to the podium. Holding a phone creates a barrier between you and your audience.

Instead, opt for cue cards or a small piece of paper. It feels more genuine and helps you connect better with the guests.

Invite Everyone to Stand: Not everyone in the audience may know when it’s appropriate to rise for a toast, which can create an awkward moment. To avoid this, clearly invite the entire gathering to rise and raise their glasses, making it a unified gesture.

End with a High Note: Remember, the spotlight should always be on the couple or the hosts. Conclude your toast with heartfelt wishes and sincere praise, and leave the audience with a sense of joy and celebration for the rest of the evening.

These steps have served me well over the years, and I hope they help you deliver a toast that’s both meaningful and memorable.

Cheers to many more beautiful celebrations!

NOVEMBER 2024

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A MESSAGE FROM THE DISTRICT DIRECTOR

A HEARTFELT TRIBUTE TO MY HOME CLUB

As I reflect on the last five years with Marketers Toastmasters Club, my heart swells with pride. What a journey it has been! From a time when the club faced challenges, today we stand strong with 35 passionate members. The transformation has been nothing short of remarkable, and it’s all thanks to the continuous commitment of every member.

Our meetings have become a source of inspiration, where the energy is palpable, and the growth is evident in every speech, every evaluation.

For two consecutive years, we’ve celebrated district champions, a testament to the talent and dedication within our club. And this year, we’ve strengthened our educational programs to ensure every member can shine. But what truly sets Marketers apart is the way we care for each other. In every event, from Speechcraft to club meetings, we come together as a family, always lifting each other up, always blending fun with learning.

Marketers Toastmasters is more than just a club to me —it’s where I found my voice, my confidence, and the courage to lead. The love and support I’ve received from this incredible group of people is beyond words.

Without a doubt, I owe so much of who I am today to this club.

As Division Director, but more importantly, as a proud member of this family, I wish Marketers all the success in the world. May we continue to grow, support one another, and shine even brighter in the years to come.

TM YASHODHARA HEMACHANDRA DIVISION DIRECTOR: DIVISION D

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NOVEMBER 2024

16TH CLUB OFFICER INSTALLATION CEREMONY

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BEHIND THE WINNING EVALUATION TM Ayesha Ratnayake, District Evaluation Champion 2024

Our very own TM Ayesha, the 2024 District Evaluation Champion, shares valuable lessons and unforgettable moments from her journey.

1. What was your secret sauce for preparing for the Evaluation Contest?

Exposing myself to many great speeches over the years has helped me to appreciate what makes a speech great! With exceptional speeches in mind, I kept a mental checklist of the ingredients of a high quality speech which I ran through mentally while evaluating speeches.

2. What’s your biggest takeaway from the competition experience?

Practice seriously before the competition but in that moment on stage, don’t take yourself too seriously being comfortable and relaxed gives you a better chance of tapping into your creativity and connecting with the audience.

3. What would you say is the most important skill for giving an effective evaluation?

Giving constructive feedback in an empathetic way is an essential skill for effective evaluations in both Toastmasters and your personal life. Your choice of words, tone of voice, and facial expressions can all convey empathy even as you deliver analytical feedback.

4. Any memorable moments from the contest that still make you smile?

My favourite moments have been when I’ve made the audience smile or laugh by teasing the contest master or making a joke during an evaluation. It’s a good feeling to be able to use the moment to entertain instead of only inform.

5. Can you share a valuable lesson or moment from a fellow member that shaped your evaluation style?

Something that has stayed with me for years are the words that DTM Trishma Pinto shared during an educational session she delivered on evaluations perhaps even a decade ago. She said, “Tell the truth with love.” To me, those five words sum up how to ace any evaluation.

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6. What’s your top tip for anyone considering entering a Toastmasters contest?

Just do it! The contest environment develops you in a way that everyday club meetings do not - it pushes you to benchmark the best speakers around you and strive to perform better than you ever have before. The growth you’ll see in yourself is worth more than any prize.

7. What challenges did you face while prepping, and how did you tackle them?

One of the ways I practiced for the District contest was by evaluating Toastmasters speeches on YouTube.

Unfortunately, most of them are delivered by nonAsians who often have very different speaking styles. In order to work around this, I kept an eye out for speeches by Sri Lankan and Indian speakers and prioritised evaluating those.

8. If you could evaluate any fictional character, who would it be and why?

Lord Voldemort perhaps? His body language and gestures certainly command attention but his raspy voice could use some vocal variety and his content is too sinister to connect with an audience. Avada Kedavra seems to be a crutch word. I recommend some hardcore therapy and a good Toastmasters club.

NOVEMBER 2024

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PASSING THE TORCH

MEET OUR NEWEST MEMBERS TM NUWAN RANATHUNGA “I initially joined Marketers to improve my public speaking and communication skills and to expand my network, as I’m passionate about personal growth. But it quickly became more than that—it’s a community filled with inspiration, support, and camaraderie.

Each session is an opportunity to learn, step out of my comfort zone, and receive valuable feedback from members who genuinely care about each other’s growth. ”

TM KESHANI PERERA "I started my journey as a CA Speechcrafter, which motivated me to enhance my public speaking, leadership, and communication skills.

Marketers Toastmasters Club is so close to my heart. I enjoyed the fruitful contents of all the educational meetings and since day one, all the club members including Exco helped me to get used to this newest experience.... feels like home!"

TM NAMAL SPENCER “With a mix of excitement and apprehension, I attended my first Marketers Toastmasters meeting. The moment I walked in, I was pleasantly surprised.

The warm and inviting atmosphere was far from a traditional classroom setting. The club members were friendly and welcoming, and the food arrangement was a delightful touch.”

TM CHARINDI KUMARASINGHE REINSTATED MEMBER

“As my university journey ended, finding a club with the same bond as my previous one was challenging. From the moment I saw TM Ayesha’s captivating speeches and the constant support from TM Yashodhara, I was curious about Marketers. From attending meetings to taking up my first role and being flooded with encouraging messages, I knew my next 60$ investment was in this club.

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NOVEMBER 2024

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DTM SHEREEN FERNANDO REINSTATED MEMBER

Toastmasters quickly became much more than a club; it was my stage to perform and share my opinions and knowledge. It became a powerful platform to sharpen essential soft skills.

In Moratuwa Toastmasters, I embraced roles such as Vice President Education, Club President, and Area Director. Each enriched my leadership skills.

In 2024, I joined Marketers Toastmasters Club, eager to continue my learning journey and explore new perspectives. Reflecting on this path, I’m grateful for the platform Toastmasters has provided.”

TM AHAMED AZEEM “I became a member to refine my leadership and storytelling skills— essential elements in my career in video editing and content creation.

Toastmasters has provided an incredible platform to bring the art of storytelling into spoken form.

I even jumped right in by entering the Humorous Speech Contest before completing my icebreaker speech! My first meeting was unforgettable, with diverse cultural outfits from Indians to Gypsies to Cowboys, and I felt warmly welcomed into the club’s vibrant community.”

TM OSHADHA WEERASEKERA “From the beginning, I was encouraged to take part in sessions like Table Topics, where I could stretch my impromptu speaking skills. The constructive feedback I received helped me grow with every session.

An early opportunity to serve as the Contest Master for the Club Humorous Contest, even before delivering my ice breaker was remarkable. It allowed me to showcase my skills while expanding my skills and confidence in new ways.”

TM INDOOSHAN SHANTHAKUMARAN TRANSFER MEMBER

“Changing from our company's Toastmasters club to Marketers Toastmasters club was an exciting yet a nervous decision. Although I have greatly enjoyed my tenure at the Corporate Club, I am of the belief that a Community Club will offer a more diverse range of activities and opportunity for personal development… with its varied membership and accommodating meeting schedule.

I have adored the atmosphere of the Marketers Toastmasters since day one and we had a blast at every gathering! … and, most importantly, finding methods to aid everyone in their needs—that's just the community aspect that they bring.”

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NOVEMBER 2024

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TM PUBUDITHA RATHNAYAKE Long I dreamed of a place to grow, Where words would dance and voices flow.

Mistakenly, I went to the wrong club’s door, But destiny led me to something more.

It nudged me gently to find my way, To Marketers Toastmasters, I found my place, A welcome warm, a friendly space.

A positive vibe, I’m never alone.

In this family close, I feel at home, we share a dream.

With a talented team, Passion shines in each voice I hear, In every speech, I find my say.

With every speech, I shed a fear.

Not just public speaking’s art, But skills of every kind they chart.

They value me, I feel secure, With each new step, I’m more mature.

The best choice made, the right place found, At Marketers Toastmasters, dreams abound.

To grow, to learn, to be my best I’ve joined a club above the rest.

Here, I’m valued, here I thrive, Toastmasters brings my goals alive.

THE LIFEGUARD’S JOURNEY TM Namal Spencer

Sundays were magical. Our dad, the coolest guy ever, would let us roam free, exploring the world and getting into all sorts of mischief. One perfect Sunday, we headed to Mount Lavinia beach, a place we knew well.

Over the past six years, I've had the privilege of saving two lives. One was a suicide attempt, the other an accidental drowning. The satisfaction of helping someone in need far surpasses any childhood dream of heroism.

The beach was bustling with activity: old folks strolling, kids building sandcastles, and teenagers playing football.

My brother and I had our own little games, but our eyes were drawn to the football match. A sudden, powerful wave swept the ball out to sea. One of the players, a tall young man, bravely jumped in to retrieve it. But the waves were too strong.

While family responsibilities have shifted my priorities, I still cherish my time as a lifeguard. Whenever the opportunity arises, I'm ready to step up and serve.

A young man in a blue t-shirt, a stranger to us, sprang into action. He dove into the turbulent sea, disappearing beneath the waves. A few tense moments later, he emerged, pulling the struggling player to safety. It was like a scene from a movie - a hero saving the day.

That moment sparked a desire within me. I wanted to be that hero, that lifeguard. I joined the school swimming club and later, the Mount Lavinia Lifeguard Association.

As a volunteer, I participated in sea shows, practicing rescue techniques.

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NOVEMBER 2024

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OVATION 2024 HIGHLIGHTS Golden Club Award Early Bird Renewal Award Dynamic Duo Award Membership Retention Award D82 Evaluation Champion Distinguished Toastmaster Award Division Director: Division D Club New Resourch Research Chair

Marketers Toastmasters Club Marketers Toastmasters Club Marketers Toastmasters Club Marketers Toastmasters Club TM Ayesha Ratnayake DTM Shereen Fernando TM Yashodhara Hemachandra DTM Oshan Liyanage

MARK YOUR CALENDAR DECEMBER Open House Christmas-Themed Meeting JANUARY New Year-Themed Meeting Club Trip FEBRUARY International & Table Topic Speech Club Contest 16th Club Anniversary Celebrations MARCH Area D3 International & Table Topic Speech Contest Division D Conference

THE TORCHBEARERS

NOVEMBER 2024