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
TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL MISSION
We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders
TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL CORE VALUES
Integrity | Respect | Service | Excellence
TOASTMASTERS DISTRICT 82 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
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 24/25
Refined Sophistication, Inspire Change & Transform
President
VP Education
VP Membership
VP Public Relations
Secretary
Treasurer
Sergeant At Arms
TM Franklin Paul
TM Ashane Wadasinghe
TM Bhagya Rathnasiri
TM Vinu Balasuriya
TM Ashen Jayathunga
TM Jayani Hiripitiyage
TM Sepali Dahanayake
Every 2nd & 4th Thursday 6:00 - 8:30 PM
RCU Skills Centre, Rajakeeya Mawatha, Colombo 7
US
+94 75 266 4444
VP Education: +94 77 712 8585
VP Membership: +94 76 885 7903
VP Public Relations: +94 76 475 8534
CONTENT
From the Editor
President’s Message
From the EXCO: Holding the Torch High Weekend Wind with Marketers
Halloween Edition with IESL Toastmasters
In Conversation with DTM Niroshan
The Contest Chair’s Guide
Journey of Toastmasters International
How to Toast Tastefully
A Message from the District Director
16th Club Officer Installation Ceremony
Behind the Winning Evaluation
Passing the Torch: Meet our New Members
The Lifeguard’s Journey
Club Achievements & Highlights
Ovation 2024 Highlights
Mark Your Calendar
FROM THE EDITOR
TM Vinu Balasuriya
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 and family we’ve built together It’s about highlighting the true value of Toastmasters, which goes far beyond public 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!)
PRESIDENT’S MESSAG
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
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
FROM THE EXCO: HOLDING THE TORCH HIGH
TM BHAGYA RATHNASIRI VICEPRESIDENTMEMBERSHIP
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
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
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
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
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
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
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!
TM ASHANE WADASINGHE VICEPRESIDENTEDUCATION
TM VINU BALASURIYA VICEPRESIDENTPUBLICRELATIONS
ASHEN JAYATHUNGA SECRETARY
Being part of the Executive Committee of a well-regarded Toastmasters club is a privilege that brings immense opportunities for personal and professional growth
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
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
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
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
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
Here’s to a fulfilling journey of growth, learning, and success as we continue to support and uplift each other in achieving our goals
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
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
TM
TM SEPALI DAHANAYAKE SERGEANT-AT-ARMS
TM JAYANI HIRIPITIYAGE TREASURER
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 wind-
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 om any accountability they have to the ld t id
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
DOUBLE THE CLUBS, DOUBLE THE CHILLS
On the 24th of October, we celebrated a truly memorable Halloween meeting, held jointly with our beloved IESL
and I made my appearance as the Corpse Bride, patiently waiting for my t l t fi d
This joint meeting was undeniably one of our most successful, not just for the i t d t t i t
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.
Can you share 3 tips on how to set and achieve personal goals within Toastmasters?
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!
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
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
Any recent trends or innovations in program quality that are enhancing the educational experience?
Walking 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
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 experience 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 other regions, our approach to conducting meetings, 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.
The Contest Chair’s Guide
The to a cont
14 contestants competed in each of the two
Future rs
My pat Persuasi learned influenc time in been w influenc impose Instead of the o falls into Seasone much already experien howeve shared m new To contest but abo gaining knows I’m that’s true ets or Excel key advice in advance ays at the task with plan is in stress-free tes day-toing making her
JOURNEY OF TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL
1 9 2 4
In Santa Ana, California, Smedley hosts the first club meeting of the Toastmasters organization we know today
The second Toastmasters club is chartered in Anaheim, California 1 9 2 6
1 9 3 0
The organization's first bulletin The Gavel is published
1 9 3 2
Toastmasters International is incorporated The California Secretary of State officially files the Articles of Incorporation on December 19, 1932
1 9 3 3
The Toastmaster magazine is published and produced quarterly, replacing The Gavel.
1 9 3 5
The first Toastmasters club outside North America is chartered in Southport, England
The first District is organized outside of the United States District 18 in Scotland 1 9 3 8
The Inter-Club Speech Contest evolves into the International Speech and World Championship of Public Speaking™ 1 9 4 6
Membership opens to women 1 9 7 0
1 9 6 5
Dr Ralph C Smedley, founder of Toastmasters, dies at age 87
Evelyn Jane Burgay, DTM, becomes the first woman to win the World Championship of Public Speaking 1 9 7 7
Toastmasters International charters its 10,000th club Membership reaches 200,000 1 9 9 0
District 82 was established, encompassing over 60 clubs in Sri Lanka and India 2 0 0 8
The Pathways learning experience becomes the official education program 2 0 1 8
Toastmasters celebrates 100 years! 2 0 2 4
A TOASTMASTERS
+270,000 MEMBERSHIP
150 COUNTRIES
+14,000 CLUBS
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 about celebration and honor
It’s essential to be mindful of your words and never risk nnnn
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!
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
BEHIND THE
TM Ayesha Ratnayake, D
Our very own TM Ayesha Evaluation Champion, shares unforgettable moments from
1. What was your secret sa the Evaluation Contest?
Exposing myself to many great has helped me to appreciate great! With exceptional speec mental checklist of the ingred speech which I ran through m speeches.
2. What’s your biggest competition experience?
Practice seriously before the c moment on stage, don’t take being comfortable and relaxe chance of tapping into your cr with the audience
3. What would you say is the for giving an effective evalua Giving constructive feedback i an essential skill for effectiv Toastmasters and your person words, tone of voice, and fac convey empathy even as feedback
4. Any memorable moments still make you smile?
My favourite moments have be audience smile or laugh by tea or making a joke during an feeling to be able to use the moment to entertain instead of only inform
order to work around this, I kept an eye out for speeches by Sri Lankan and Indian speakers and prioritised evaluating those
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.
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.
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 feed 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
“With a mix of excite Toastmasters meetin The warm and inviti setting The club m arrangement was a d
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
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 grateful for the platfo
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 OSHAD
“From the beginning Topics, where I c constructive feedbac
An early opportunity Contest, even before me to showcase my 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 ”
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
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
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
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
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
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
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Open House
Marketers Toastmasters Club
Marketers Toastmasters Club
Marketers Toastmasters Club
Marketers Toastmasters Club
TM Ayesha Ratnayake
DTM Shereen Fernando
TM Yashodhara Hemachandra
DTM Oshan Liyanage
Christmas-Themed Meeting D E C E M B E R New Year-Themed Meeting Club Trip
E B R U A R Y
International & Table Topic Speech Club Contest 16th Club Anniversary Celebrations
