Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that operates clubs worldwide for the purpose of promoting communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. Established in 1924, it has grown to have a global presence, with numerous clubs in different countries and regions 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. We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communicate and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth
Create a Toastmasters Club for tomorrows leaders through an environment where young voices confidently share their thoughts and dreams, free from inhibitions as Comfort Meets Growth
DISTRICT 82'S MISSION
We build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence.
Scan the QR code or use the link bit.ly/find-TTMC to find us
Toastmasters is a thriving and diverse global community We enhance the personal lives and careers of individuals, enabling them to positively impact their communities We empower people to develop communication and leadership skills through a welcoming, high-quality, experiential learning environment, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth
TI’s CORE VALUES
TORRINGTON Toastmasters CLUB falls under AREA D2 | DIVISION D | DISTRICT 82
Club Number: 07980809
You Plus ONE Themed Meeting
Self Branding through Public Speaking: Elevate your Personal Brand
Grow with Torrington: Open House
Welcome to Haus of Torries, the official newsletter of Torrington Toastmasters Club! "Torries" represent the vibrant, diverse, and passionate members who make our club a true community Inspired by the German word "Haus," meaning home, this newsletter opens the doors to our warm and welcoming house of Torries. Through these pages, we invite you to share in our journey, celebrate our achievements, and embrace the spirit of camaraderie that binds us together. Here's to storytelling, inspiration, and connection
This year, our theme is all about loyalty, symbolized by the loyal blue of Toastmasters, which you’ll see reflected throughout the newsletter
In this issue, you’ll discover inspiring stories from Area D2, Division D, and District 82, as well as our friends from the Toastmasters Club of Singapore (District 80), highlighting the global connections that unite us all
A special thank you goes out to TM Geethika, whose creative design ideas and unwavering support have been crucial in bringing this vision to life, motivating us every step of the way TM Shenoli, for her constant guidance, meticulous proofreading, and providing images to help us stay on track. And TM Prasansa, whose enthusiasm for writing, image contributions, and energy has added so much life to this edition
This newsletter isn’t just about updates; it’s a celebration of the Torries spirit our passion, resilience, and the bonds that keep us strong So, sit back, explore, and enjoy the journey with us!
Love,
TM Gahana Karunananthan Vice President Public Relations
2024/25
TM Anujana Rajakaruna
Asst. Vice President Public Relations 2024/25
U S O F T O R R I E S !
AW E L C O
As we embark on the year 2024/25 at Torrington Toast foundation laid by the exceptional efforts of the previou dedication have provided us with a platform to dream bigger and achieve greater milestones.
Over the past few months, Torrington Toastmasters has been buzzing with activity, showcasing a range of dynamic initiatives
From elevating the standard of our meetings with creative and engaging themes to celebrating the success of our members who have risen from club-level to emerge as Division Champions, the energy within our club continues to grow stronger. With each passing day, our family expands, becoming bigger and better.
As President of this incredible club, I take immense pride in fostering an environment of inclusivity and warmth, a space where every individual feels welcomed, valued, and inspired. It is my vision to nurture a passionate membership that strives for excellence while upholding the core values that define us as Toastmasters integrity, respect, service, and excellence.
None of this would be possible without the driving force behind the magic: our dedicated Executive Committee and vibrant membership. Together, we continue to push boundaries, ensuring that Torrington Toastmasters remains a hub of growth, creativity, and "GIVING-NESS."
To every member who has contributed to making this journey so remarkable, I extend my heartfelt gratitude Your passion and commitment define what it means to be a "Torrie".
Let us continue to inspire each other, set new benchmarks, and embrace the challenges ahead with the determination to shine brighter than ever Here’s to a year of growth, achievement, and unforgettable memories Together, we are unstoppable!
In District 82, few clubs exude the energy and enthusiasm that Torrington TMC, or “The Torries,” bring to every event Known as a club that defies expectations, Torrington has redefined what a Toastmasters club can achieve with vision, dedication, and sheer hard work.
Last year, led by President Thalaal Naushad and his spirited team, Torrington TMC went from being a small club of just eight members to a thriving hub of twenty-four passionate individuals Under their leadership, Torrington not only became a President’s Distinguished Club but also took home the prestigious Golden Award and various PR accolades, all of which testify to the club’s meticulous planning and relentless drive Their journey has made me one of their biggest fans, and it serves as an inspiring reminder of what’s possible when a team sets high goals and commits fully.
This year, with TM Shenoli Gamage at the helm, Torrington has already embarked on new paths, experimenting boldly to create experiences that exceed their members’ expectations. Their presence on social media is a testament to their commitment to quality, as they consistently produce creative and captivating content This innovation, coupled with the club’s vibrant spirit, sets them apart as one of the “loudest,” most friendly, and welcoming clubs in District 82 qualities that make them truly unique.
As Division Director of Division D, I am deeply grateful to have Torrington TMC as a part of our division Their support and contribution uplift not only our area and division but the entire district. I wish the club continued success, and I look forward to seeing Torrington’s members emerge as leaders, champions, and individuals who use their Toastmasters journey to make a lasting impact in society
To the Torries: keep “giving” with that unmatched energy and spirit. Here’s to more achievements, more growth, and more lives touched by your enthusiasm
TM YASHODHARA HEMACHANDRA DIVISION DIRECTOR
D
Greetings to the dynamic members of Torrington Toastmasters Club!
It brings me immense joy to write this message as Area Director for Area 2, Division D, District 82 Torrington TMC may be one of the newer clubs in our area, but you have quickly become a driving force, a truly vibrant and “happening” club! The energy that each of you, the “Torries,” bring to every meeting and beyond is nothing short of electrifying. I have watched you overcome every challenge with resilience and a "can-do" spirit that truly inspires all who see you in action
It’s incredible to witness how Torrington TMC has grown both in strength and in spirit, thanks to your dedicated executive committee led by TM Shenoli Gamage and also the past Exco’s, who paved the way I would also like to acknowledge the incredible work of last year’s Area Director, DTM Shani Goonasekara, whose efforts laid a strong foundation for the club’s rapid growth The club has produced champion speakers across all four contest formats, and although some of these champions have moved abroad, it’s heartening to see that they have left a legacy by passing their skills on to the next generation
I am equally proud of the Torries who have stepped into leadership roles beyond your club, contributing to Division D, other Divisions, and even District 82! This dedication to leadership is wonderful to see and is a testament to the strength and commitment within your club Honestly, seeing familiar Torrington faces in all, District events is something amazing and fulfilling.
Perhaps most exciting for me is your club’s willingness to give back The GIVINGness, that Torries are famous for Not only have you created an incredible environment within Torrington TMC, but you’ve also extended a guiding hand to the newest club in the area, iTelaSoft TMC, treating it like a sister club and supporting its growth with generosity and care
As you continue your journey, know that you have my unwavering support and admiration. Torrington TMC is more than just a club it’s a beacon of excellence, leadership, and community. I wish each of you continued success, both in your individual growth and in your contributions to the Toastmasters community.
With pride and best wishes, TM Achintha Jayasekara
Area Director, Area 2
A D 2
Toastmasters International marked its historic 100-year milestone with grandeur and excitement, and District 82 ensured the celebrations were nothing short of spectacular Members from across the District came together for a week-long lineup of events, paying tribute to the legacy of the organization that has transformed lives worldwide.
The celebrations began with the ceremonious CSE Bell Ringing at the World Trade Centre, Colombo, on October 22nd This official event highlighted the formal recognition of Toastmasters International’s centenary and set the tone for the jubilant festivities to follow
The pinnacle of the celebrations was the Grand Sit-Down Dinner held at the iconic Galle Face Hotel on October 25th With its vibrant theme colors, lively photo booths, and the presence of veteran Toastmasters and dignitaries, the evening sparkled with glamour and camaraderie The unveiling of a commemorative postal cover added a historic touch, symbolizing a century of excellence in communication and leadership Toastmasters were thrilled to meet prominent figures such as Dhananjaya Hettiarachchi, World Champion of Public Speaking, and DTM Balraj Arunasalam, Past International President, whose reflections emphasized the profound impact of Toastmasters over the decades
The festivities culminated on October 27th with the Smedley Walk at Arcade Independence Square. We from Torrington Toastmasters relished the Sunday morning atmosphere, celebrating the shared journey and achievements It was a joyful experience, blending fitness, fellowship, and pride
This centenary celebration was not just an event; it was a testament to a century of empowering individuals Here’s to the next 100 years of making effective communication a global standard!
The recent Toastmasters meeting, themed "Autumn Fall: You Plus One," was engaging event that embraced the beauty and symbolism of the autumn s Toastmaster of the Day, I led a colorful and well-orchestrated session, with a immersed in the autumn spirit by dressing up in autumnal hues This meeting w h faces
The meeting opened with a warm welcome, setting the tone for the theme with a poetic reflection on the season: "There is something so special in the early leaves drifting from the trees as if we are all allowed a chance to peel, to refresh, to start again," a quote by Ruth Ahmed This captured the essence of renewal and new beginnings The highlight was the keynote speech by TM Yohan Ranasinghe, who shared insightful tips on crafting an award-winning humorous speech. His presentation, filled with laughter, showed how humor can elevate a speech
TM MIHIRI ALWIS TMOD/FALL QUEEN
The "You Plus One" theme fostered connections, and many guests expressed interest in becoming members. The meeting concluded with a sense of achievement and fun, as several attendees decided to join the club, marking the event as a memorable highlight
The Round Robin session, led by TM Pansilu Aloka, encouraged creativity with a lively, impromptu storytelling exercise This was followed by Table Topics, skillfully moderated by TM Andrea Silva, where participants delivered spontaneous speeches on the autumn theme Additionally, speakers TM Himashi, TM Anujana, and TM Bhagya from Smedly TMC added color to the event
The sense of camaraderie grew throughout the event, with the "You Plus One" aspect of the theme fostering connections between members and their guests. By the end of the meeting, the room was buzzing with energy, and many of the newcomers expressed their interest in becoming permanent members of the club
SELF-BRANDING THROUGH PUBLIC SPEAKING:
ELEVATE YOUR PERSONAL BRAND !!
In today's competitive world, personal branding is a powerful tool to set yourself apart.
Public speaking plays a vital role in building and enhancing your brand, allowing you to showcase expertise, communicate effectively, and create a lasting impression.
1. Showcase Expertise and Credibility
Public speaking offers an excellent platform to share your knowledge and skills. By speaking on topics within your domain, you position yourself as a thought leader. Audiences tend to trust individuals who communicate with confidence and authority, reinforcing your brand as an expert.
2. Build Authentic Connections
When you speak, you create a direct connection with your audience Sharing personal stories and insights fosters authenticity, making your brand relatable and memorable. This emotional connection helps establish trust and loyalty among listeners.
3. Expand Your Reach
Every speaking engagement is an opportunity to reach new audiences. Whether it's at conferences, webinars, or workshops, your presence amplifies your brand visibility Effective speeches can lead to invitations for future events, broadening your influence.
4. Demonstrate Leadership
Great public speakers inspire and lead. By addressing challenges or presenting innovative ideas, you showcase leadership qualities that enhance your professional image. This positions your brand as not just skilled, but visionary.
5. Mastering the Art of Persuasion
Public speaking allows you to present your ideas persuasively, a skill crucial for personal branding. A compelling speech leaves a lasting impact, influencing perceptions about your brand.
Remember:
Be yourself and be giving and that will be the pinnacle of you being the best version to be branded
Incorporate public speaking into your self-branding strategy by joining organizations like Toastmasters or taking on speaking opportunities in your field Remember, every speech is not just about sharing ideas but also about building your brand.
"A Day to Discover, Connect, and Thrive"
On the 31st of August , we had the pleasure of hosting the Open House of Torrington Toastmasters, welcoming new guests for a day filled with inspiration, connection, and the spirit of growth The theme, "Grow with Torrington," wasn’t just a catchphrase – it was the heartbeat of the entire event, from our pre-event PR strategy to every activity of the day
Pre-Event PR Strategy
In the week leading up to the Open House, we launched a series of posts highlighting the personal journeys of a few of our members TM Hikma shared how her time with the club enhanced her learning skills, TM Gahana grew into a confident leader, and TM Kasun expanded his networking abilities These stories weren’t just promotional –they were real-life examples of how being a part of Torrington Toastmasters can spark personal transformation.
A Day of Engagement, Learning, and Inspiration
We were honored by the presence of Division Director TM Yashodhara Hemachandra and Area Director TM Achintha Jayasekara, whose support highlighted the strong sense of community and leadership within Toastmasters. The event began with an engaging icebreaker session, where guests paired with members to introduce each other. This innovative activity fostered personal connections and eased initial nerves. Guests were introduced to various meeting roles, providing insight into the structure of a typical Toastmasters session. TM Mayantha Warnakulasuriya delivered an inspiring prepared speech, showcasing the power of effective communication. TM Shenoli Gamage then led a thoughtful evaluation session, emphasizing the value of constructive feedback for growth Keynote speaker DTM Hingston Lovell captivated the audience with his speech, "Be Selfish," encouraging personal growth as a means to contribute meaningfully to the world His powerful message left a lasting impact, inspiring attendees to reflect on their own growth journeys
Closing Thoughts and Takeaways
As Chair of the event, I shared my own journey from a newcomer to a confident leader, thanks to the support of the Torrington Toastmasters family It was a fulfilling experience to see how our stories of growth resonated with others, inspiring them to begin their own journey with Toastmasters The event truly showcased the spirit of personal transformation that defines our club
What happens when you combine Halloween vibes with Toastmasters brilliance? You get a speech marathon that’s both fun and enriching! As the Vice President Education of Torrington Toastmasters Club, I had the honor of being the Toastmaster of the Day for this event. It was a perfect blend of creativity, learning, and camaraderie, showcasing why our club is thriving.
A Platform for Growth
The heart of the day was our series of prepared speeches and evaluations. Each speaker brought their unique flair, addressing diverse topics that inspired and educated us The evaluations, delivered with precision and encouragement, were goldmines of feedback, helping speakers identify their strengths and areas for improvement Such events push members out of their comfort zones, helping them build confidence while progressing toward their educational goals
Learning Beyond the Lectern
Adding to the excitement was our interactive murder mystery. Our Immediate Past President, TM Thalaal, was "kidnapped" in Australia, and the hunt for the culprit unfolded through riddles, trivia, and even eerie voice notes. This activity wasn’t just about fun it cultivated teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity, essential skills for any speaker or leader.
Engagement Through Entertainment
We believe learning is most effective when it’s enjoyable. The Halloween theme brought everyone together, with members dressed as their spooky best. A lively fashion show crowned the Best Halloween Costume, reinforcing the idea that public speaking isn’t just about words but about presence and impact Themed snacks added a festive touch, making the day even more memorable
Why Speech Marathons Matter
Beyond the fun, events like this keep our club vibrant. They motivate members to speak more often, learn from one another, and celebrate achievements in a supportive setting By providing a variety of platforms from speeches to engaging activities we ensure every meeting adds value to our members' journeys
Looking back, the Halloween Speech Marathon wasn’t just an event; it was a testament to how a Toastmasters club can nurture growth through creativity and connection Here’s to more such thrilling adventures at Torrington Toastmasters!
I had a fantastic time attending the Torrington Toastmasters Club meeting I was invited to deliver a keynote on organizing a speech before their Humorous and Evaluation Contests, and the energy in the room was undeniable. From the moment I arrived, I was warmly welcomed, shown to the meeting room, and immediately included in the fun by being asked to join a team for their game session
The meeting struck a great balance between being fun and educational. One of my favorite parts was a debate game about tea versus coffee it was both lively and entertaining Sharing my knowledge during the keynote was a rewarding experience, but I also appreciated the chance to try a Table Topic The feedback I received on adding more energy to my delivery was spot-on and a great reminder to keep pushing myself. What really stood out was how supportive and inclusive the club was while still maintaining high standards It’s a space where anyone can grow their public speaking and leadership skills in a fun, friendly environment I had a great time, and even h h I’ l d f l b I’d d fi i l l to attend
Where the Hillcapitals met the Torries, who traveled all the way from Colombo to the hills A meeting where everything was different the setting, the vibe, the energy. A meeting where everyone was different superheroes, supernaturals, fictional characters A meeting in a parallel universe But one thing remained the same: TOASTMASTERS
Where leaders are made? Yes But also where memories are made It was one of the most fun experiences and an honor to have been the Toastmaster of the Day for this fun-filled, jovial joint meeting, hosting the Torries an amazing bunch with energy levels off the roof, reaching the hills With a mix of creativity, fun, learning, and bonding, this meeting went beyond the horizon.
This wasn’t just about Toastmasters After the meeting, we had a great networking session Even though there were many new faces, there wasn’t a single awkward moment Perhaps it was the magic of the parallel universe Adding vibrance were the food, post-meeting conversations, selfies, and pictures, all capturing glimpses of this extraordinary gathering
Finally, it all wrapped up as the train back to the real world arrived, and the Torries had to leave Yet, the energy remained undiminished. Wherever we are up in the hills, along the coast, or in another universe we are TOASTMASTERS!
Taking on the role of Contest Chair for the first time was both exciting and nerve-wracking. When Torrington Toastmasters Club entrusted me with this responsibility, I felt a mix of gratitude and curiosity. It wasn’t my home club, but their warm welcome and unwavering support made me feel right at home.
Organizing the Humorous and Evaluation Contest was no small task. From coordinating with role players to ensuring the event ran smoothly, there was a lot to learn But the journey was far from lonely The members of Torrington Toastmasters Club were incredibly supportive. Whether it was answering my questions or providing valuable guidance, they made the process much easier for me
One of the most rewarding aspects of being the Contest Chair was witnessing the dedication and talent of everyone involved role players, contestants, and even the audience Their enthusiasm reminded me of why Toastmasters is such a special community.
This experience taught me the importance of teamwork and attention to detail It also boosted my confidence to take on more challenges in the future I’m grateful to Torrington Toastmasters Club for giving me this opportunity It was a privilege to serve and grow alongside such amazing people
If you’re ever offered the chance to be a Contest Chair, I encourage you to embrace it. It’s a role that will teach you a lot and leave you with memories to cherish.
The Toastmasters Club of Singapore (TMCS), one of the oldest and largest clubs in the world, has long been a hub for diverse voices and inspiring moments At the time of this milestone, TMCS was the second-largest Toastmasters club globally, a vibrant community that thrives on empowering individuals to achieve their full potential
This milestone was more than an event it was a celebration of the power of networking in Toastmasters. Anujana’s journey from guest to featured speaker exemplified how one moment of connection can blossom into an opportunity that inspires growth, collaboration, and unity It underscored that every interaction in Toastmasters has the potential to break barriers and create lasting relationships
To the members of Torrington Toastmasters of District 82, Thank you for enriching our club and being part of this milestone Together, we are not just building better leaders; we are strengthening a global Toastmasters family, proving that when we connect, we transform not only ourselves but the world around us
TM VLAD TAPIA PRESIDENT
Despite being an introvert, The TTMC made me feel confident motivated and bold enough to use my voice in front of a crowd with less pressure This made me step out of my comfort zone and step into another new comfort zone, which is the TTMC undoubtedly.
With a friendly, kind and fun community, TTMC helps you in improving your skills withoit making you feel pressured and uncomfortable, which I see as a place full of positive for enthusiastic people With the creative and fun segments that keeps you entertained and instructed with multiple skills, TTMC has it all, and it'll always be one of my best decisions in my life forever
I remember walking into my first meeting at Torrington, my heart racing The room was filled with smiling faces, and there was an unmistakable energy in the air I quickly realized that everyone there shared a common goal: to improve and support one another. It felt like a safe space where mistakes were not only accepted but embraced as part of the learning process Listening to the speakers, I found inspiration in their stories and diverse styles I thought, "If they can do it, so can I!"
In that moment, I felt a spark of determination. I knew that joining Toastmasters was not just about conquering my fear of public speaking, but also about becoming part of a supportive community I left the meeting feeling a mix of excitement and relief, eager to take my first steps on this journey of growth
I joined Toastmasters as a guest a few months ago and it has been an eye-opening experience I realized that public speaking is not just about being verbally affluent but also captivating and engaging your audience
Through table topics and taking on roles during meetings, I learned the basic structure of a session and the importance of preparation. The warm and welcoming environment, along with the support of the members, made me feel comfortable and at ease I look forward to growing further, honing my skills, and becoming a confident speaker
-TM KUSHANI
Attending Torrington Toastmasters as a guest has been an incredibly positive experience The members are exceptionally welcoming, supportive, and full of energy, making it easy to feel included and engaged I’m particularly impressed by the thoughtful and constructive feedback they provide to speakers, which motivates everyone to improve and aim higher. The club clearly offers a nurturing space for both professional and personal growth, helping people develop essential communication and leadership skills It’s an inspiring environment, and I’m grateful for the insights and encouragement I’ve gained -GUEST MUTHULI-
Torrington Toastmasters has been a GIVING experience filled with learning, laughter, and incredible growth opportunities After attending two meetings as a guest at Torrington Toastmasters, I’ve been thoroughly impressed by the club's unique approach to public speaking and personal growth On my first day, I was welcomed by a diverse group of passionate and supportive members who encouraged me to embrace my potential as a speaker. The themed meetings and friendly atmosphere made it easy to jump right in, and I felt instantly at home. It’s inspiring to see how Torrington Toastmasters blends learning with fun, and I look forward to exploring this journey further This club is truly a special place for anyone looking to unlock their full potential as a communicator!
-GUEST THARINDU-
My first meeting at Torrington Toastmasters Club left a lasting impression on me, and I couldn't help but come back for more meetings Torrington fosters a welcoming atmosphere where members encourage each other, making it a great place for both new and experienced speakers to grow Although I have attended only a few meetings so far, I can easily see that this is a place where members can develop skills such as public speaking, leadership, and effective communication through structured programs and feedback. There is never a dull moment in the meetings, as they are both fun and educational If I had to describe Torrington Toastmasters Club in one word, I would say "giving," a unique term used by Torries that perfectly captures the spirit of this club
-GUEST SAYUMI-
TORRINGTON CALENDAR 2024-25
TM Isiwara SAA
TM Naveed Tresurer
TM Gahana VP PR
TM Pansilu VPM
TM Prasansa Asst.VP ED
TM Geethika VP ED
TM Shenoli President
TM Shenoli Gamage President +94 76 410 3973 shenoligamage@gmailcom
