Toast Talk - Volume 1, Issue 1

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 1

DIRECTFN TOASTMASTERS CLUB

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Toastmasters International Mission We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.

Club Mission We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.

Toastmasters International Core Values k Integritc k Respecj k Servicg k Excellence

Toastmasters International Envisioned Future To be the first-choice provider of dynamic, high-value, experiential communication and leadership skills development.

Identity DirectFN Toastmasters Club Club Number 28676097 District 82 Area E4

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EDITORIAL NOTE Dear All, TM Nethmini Dasanayake & Shyami Abeysekera Editor & Illustrator

It’s with great joy we welcome you to the first ever edition of the DirectFN Toastmasters Club newsletter. As we embraced the roles of the editor and illustrator, it initially seemed a lighter task.

However, as we progressed (with many sleepless nights and the endless buzzing of our WhatsApp group) we realised despite being a very new club we indeed have a lot to share with you all!

On the first edition of DirectFN Toast Talk you will get the chance to revisit events of the past year and catch a glimpse of our future. The educational articles of this edition will highlight the experiences of our members as they discuss how Toastmasters have enriched their personal and professional lives. DirectFN Toast Talk also “DirectFN Toast Talk also brings to you the success stories of our brings to you the success members and the club itself, as we celebrate stories...” pathway completions and the joining of new members.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the club officers, members, the management of DirectFN and Toastmasters fraternity for contributing to the success of DirectFN Toast Talk and to our club itself.

Last but not the least, we express sincere gratitude for this wonderful opportunity of serving as the editor and illustrator of DirectFN Toast Talk.

Summing up the so far short journey of the DirectFN Toastmaster club only allows us to imagine what the future holds. DirectFN Toastmasters onwards and upwards!!

DIRECTFN TOASTMASTERS CLUB

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1

The

Leadership

Message from

The President

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P. 06

Message from the Area Director P. 08

P. 07

WHAT’S Message from our CTO

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Message from the Division Director P. 09

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P. 10

An Emerging Club

with Big Dreams P. 11

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Is Your Arsenal Ready?

A Walk Down Memory Lane

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P. 17

New Member Corner

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P. 12

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P. 18

INSIDE...

Mastering the

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Art of Public Speaking

P. 22

Level Completion

&

Member

Recognition

A peek into

The Future...

Guest Testimonials

P. 19

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P. 24 P. 23

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THE

LEADERSHIP

VP Membership TM Satheeq Hasan

President TM Kusal Kahaduwa

I think I’m light-hearted, but my humour is unintentionally dark

I think I'm hilarious but I'm the only one laughing

Sergeant at Arms TM Praveen Gunasingha I think I'm a party lover, but I do look like

a flower

Secretary TM Nishadi de Zoysa I think I'm a food reviewer, but only around Malabe

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VP Public Relations TM Darshana Fernando I think I'm present, but I’m always missing-in-action

VP Education TM Yohan Ranasinghe I think I'm financially responsible, but my life choices say otherwise

Treasurer TM Dulanka Karunasena I think I'm at home, but I'm actually at the gym

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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” - Lao Tzu

It is with great joy and enthusiasm that I extend my warmest greetings to each member of DirectFN Toastmasters club. As we embark on this exciting journey together, let the words of Lao Tzu remind us that every great endeavour begins with that initial, courageous step.

Our club, nestled under the expansive umbrella of District 82, Division E, Area 04, stands as a testament to the spirit of growth, learning, and camaraderie. We are the proud newcomers, the baby club in our Area, officially charted on the 31st of March 2023.

This achievement wouldn't have been possible without our club mentor DTM Dilumi de Silva and the unwavering support of our esteemed management. A heartfelt thank you to Mr. Ruwan Aluthgedara, our Chief Technical Officer, and the Administration, HR, and Finance teams for their invaluable backing. It's their belief in the power of effective communication and leadership that has laid the foundation for our Toastmasters journey.

I invite each of our colleagues to join us in celebrating this remarkable milestone and join the Toastmasters community where we dedicate to self-improvement and empowerment. This is a unique opportunity for all of us to witness the birth of something special, to be a part of a vibrant community that encourages personal and professional growth.

Let's come together, share our experiences, and support each other as we navigate the exciting world of public speaking, leadership, and personal development. Our club is not just about meetings; it's about creating a platform where each member can discover their voice and unlock their full potential.

Here's to the journey ahead, the speeches waiting to be delivered, and the leadership roles waiting to be embraced. Let DirectFN Toastmasters be the catalyst for personal and collective success.

TM Kusal Kahaduwa President - 2023/2024

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MESSAGE FROM THE

AREA DIRECTOR

“

As a new club to the fraternity, Division and Area, DirectFN Toastmasters Club is on a clear path to achieve many accolades and create history within its charter year. The initiative to charter a Toastmasters Club by the management of DirectFN is a real investment to improve its employees professional development skills.

Within just 8 months, since its charter in March 2023, the club has managed to produce Area level champions at the Humorous and Evaluation contests 2023 and even a Division level 1st Runners Up Humorous contest champion among many seasoned contestants.

TM Tharindu de Silva Area Director - Area E4

With the help of the club mentors, sponsors and many other seasoned Toastmasters that have shared their experience and knowledge, the members of DirectFN Toastmasters are groomed to be competent leaders and communicators to the fraternity.

I would take this opportunity in commending all the members of DirectFN Toastmasters Club, for their commitment and even the upcoming achievements within the Toastmasters year.

”

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MESSAGE FROM THE

DIVISION DIRECTOR

DTM Hiranthi Rathnayake Division Director - Division E

It is with great pleasure that I pen this message for the DirectFN Toastmasters Club Newsletter. DirectFN Toastmasters Club is a corporate club chartered on 31 March 2023. It is an exclusive club open only to the employees of DirectFN. It has a membership base of 22 members. Even though it is only eight months old, the club has showcased its members’ abilities by winning the first and the second places of the Area E4 Humorous speech contest and the second place of the Area E4 Evaluation contest held on 26 October 2023.

The club inspired the members of other new clubs by securing second place in the Division E Humorous speech contest held on 11 November 2023.

The club consists of a group of young, enthusiastic and talented members led by a dedicated leadership team. All these members support each other to develop their communication and leadership skills while having fun. The club provides a friendly and supportive environment for the members to enhance their level of confidence and personal growth and find speakers and leaders within themselves.

Any club, whether new or old, has to face challenges. I am confident that DirectFN Toastmasters club would be able to manage and overcome any challenge it must face and keep moving forward with the same vigour they have today to be an extremely successful club. Of course, there are no shortcuts to success. There will always be obstacles and there will be failures on the way. Obstacles are the stepping stones for success and failures help you to improve and be stronger. Perseverance, hard work, and commitment of time and effort of club members will make their Toastmasters journey a fruitful and enjoyable one.

Clubs are the heart of the Toastmasters movement. It is the members of the clubs who keep that heart beating. It is the members who keep the club alive. Members’ individual and collective actions and accomplishments help the club to be distinguished, which will in turn help Area, Division, District and Toastmasters International. Just as the great big ocean is made up of drops of water, as individuals, we have the opportunity to make a universal impact.

Toastmasters clubs are a place where you bump into magical creatures called Toastmasters who will teach you the magic tricks of communicating and enchanting your audience without using a magic wand, about servant leadership, and provide many opportunities to

CONTINUED ON THE NEXT PAGE...

DIRECTFN TOASTMASTERS CLUB

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After some time, you too will become one of those magical creatures where you would want to give back to the others what you have received. I am sure DirectFN Toastmasters club too will produce such magical creatures.

Toastmasters transformed my life during the last 18 years of my Toastmasters journey. I had setbacks and challenges where I had to take a step back, or to the side, find alternative routes which made me stronger and wiser. I enjoyed each step of my Toastmasters journey as it transformed me and enriched my life. On the way, I had many opportunities to transform and enrich others too. After all, as Woodrow Wilson said: “We are not here merely to make a living. We are here to enrich the world.”

I am confident that the members of the DirectFN Toastmasters Club will continue their Toastmasters journey enriching, enjoying and transforming themselves and the others around them.

MESSAGE FROM OUR CTO ““

I have witnessed the remarkable

growth of our Toastmasters club, evolving from its infancy into a highly accomplished entity.

Achieving significant recognition within a mere year is a testament to the synergistic blend of hard work, dedication, and talent.

The Toastmasters club not only cultivates speech proficiency but also fosters personal development and essential stakeholder management skills for an enterprise-level organisation. As the Chief Technical Officer of DirectFN, I am genuinely delighted to be surrounded by such young and talented individuals.

Ruwan Aluthgedara Chief Technical Officer - DirectFN

”

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AN EMERGING CLUB

WITH BIG DREAMS In the vibrant landscape of Toastmasters clubs, a new star is on the rise – DirectFN Toastmasters. Despite being in its early stages, our club has quickly become a thriving community, attracting active and winning members who continually inspire and support each other.

What sets DirectFN Toastmasters apart is our commitment to maintaining a lively atmosphere at every event. Whether it's an educational meeting, a contest, or a ceremony, we ensure that everyone feels not just informed, but also comfortable and engaged. Our events are not only platforms for learning and growth but also spaces where laughter and enjoyment are woven into the fabric of the experience.

Looking ahead, our primary goal is to elevate our club's standing, distinguishing it as a prominent presence among other Toastmasters clubs. We aim to do this while upholding the core values of integrity, respect, service, and excellence for our members. This commitment serves as a strong foundation for our members to advance their abilities in public speaking, leadership, and other essential interpersonal skills.

We are excited about several upcoming initiatives to further enrich the DirectFN Toastmasters experience. One such initiative is the establishment of a mentoring program, fostering leadership development and providing reassurance and support for members facing challenges. We want to be a welcoming place for new members, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels a sense of belonging.

Keeping things lively and engaging is at the heart of our club's ethos. We plan to introduce more themed meetings, joint gatherings, outdoor activities, and social events. We aspire to be a home for talented speakers and skilled evaluators, creating an environment that fosters growth and excellence.

DirectFN Toastmasters also recognizes the importance of giving back to the community.

We aspire to share our knowledge and experiences by passing on what we have learned to new members and clubs in need of support. By doing so, we hope to contribute to the growth and development of the Toastmasters community at large.

In conclusion, DirectFN Toastmasters is not just a club; it's a community with big dreams.

It's a welcoming space for individuals who share our passion for personal and professional growth. Together, we will continue to inspire, support, and celebrate each other's achievements in the spirit of Toastmasters excellence.

TM Yohan Ranasinghe VP Education - 2023/2024

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A WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE...

By TM Nethmini Dasanayake Editor

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THEMATIC TALES Throughout this year, we've conducted a series of themed meetings, each with diverse yet relevant topics. Each of these meetings had a decorated venue, our participants dressed up in fitting colors and of course heartfelt speeches. Themed meetings have allowed us to dive into the significance of special days and special things while revealing personal stories and encounters.

The year started with the Valentine's theme, where our members cherished love and their loved ones with the art of communication. The pets themed meeting was no different as our members narrated the tales of their furry companions. The Vesak themed meeting then shifted gears to spiritual discussions while highlighting the importance of the occasion.

The TV series-inspired meeting started with the history of television moving on to countless binge-worthy TV series suggestions. The most recent themed meeting "Toasted" celebrated food, restaurants, and diverse cuisines through captivating speeches. The meeting was made even more engaging as our members each bought their favourite snacks.

Each themed meeting is a unique one, which allows us to touch base on a range of topics catering to the diverse interests of our members. We look forward to more frequent themed meetings which will spark exciting conversations among our members.

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SOARING AT

HUMOROUS & EVALUATION CONTESTS

The inaugural humorous and evaluation contest of DirectFN Toastmasters concluded on the 25th of October 2023 at our Malabe Office Premises.

The evening was a mix of laughter and earnestness as 6 of our members competed in the contests.

A Mix of Laughter & Earnestness...

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For his display of wit and eloquence, TM Yohan took home the 1st place, this was followed by TM Zinthan and TM Hashan at the 2nd and 3rd places. The evaluation contest win was secured

by TM Zinthan for remarkable and precise speech analysis. The 2nd and 3rd places of the evaluation contest were claimed by TM Satheeq and TM Hashan.

DIRECTFN TOASTMASTERS CLUB

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The 1st and 2nd place winners in both categories had the privilege of competing at the Area E4 Humorous and Evaluation contest, which took place at the NDB auditorium on October 26th, 2023. At which, TM Yohan yet again secured first place in the Humorous contest, and TM Zinthan achieved second place in both the Humorous and Evaluation contests.

This victory earned them a spot at the Division Contest which was held on the 11th of November 2023 at the CA Sri Lanka Auditorium. At which our humorous contest participant TM Yohan, secured the second place. DirectFN Toastmasters also won the prestigious Smedley award which recognised the addition of new members to the club.

The Prestigious Smedley Award

We wish all the winners heartfelt congratulations! Thank you for your remarkable achievements which has indeed taken DirectFN Toastmasters into greater heights.

DIRECTFN TOASTMASTERS CLUB

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A TOAST TO OUR

NEW MEMBERS Led by our VP Education, TM Yohan Ranasinghe, 5 new members participated the new member orientation signifying the beginning of their Toastmasters International journey on the 12th of October 2023.

During the session, the members were introduced to the vibrant history of Toastmasters International and its efforts in transforming the personal and professional development of members. The session also ensured all the 5 new members enrolled a pathway which best suit their aims and expectations from Toastmasters.

We are thrilled to welcome these amazing individuals to join hands with DirectFN Toastmasters Club: TM Zinthan, TM Hashan, TM Poshita, TM Bushra, and TM Nethmini. We are looking forward to learning, improving and making unforgettable memories with you while uplifting the DirectFN Toastmasters Club!

AN EVENING WITH

MILLENNIUMIT ESP Our first ever joint meeting was held on the 2nd of November together with the MilleniumIT ESP Toastmasters. The evening was a ‘spooktacular’ one as we donned in black for a Halloween themed meeting. The awesome hospitality of MilleniumIT ESP Toastmasters made us feel right at home, as we spent the evening filled with purposeful and entertaining speeches.

As the day got darker and the air grew colder, our stage fright melted away and the art of communication took flight! A huge thank you to MilleniumIT ESP Toastmasters for hosting us, it's always a pleasure to connect with members of the Toastmasters fraternity. Here's to more memorable meetings and connecting with fellow toastmasters for a shared journey of confidence, public speaking and leadership.

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Is your Arsenal ready?

The world we live in undergoes change, time and time again. Its swift pace often makes many aspects turn out of fashion within remarkably short periods. The evolution of technology, theories, knowledge, and the frontiers of science, leaves individuals with little room for observation. Emphasising the need of active engagement to learn and adapt continuously.

The dynamic nature of our surroundings highlights the significance of a perpetual readiness to acquire new skills and update existing ones. Those who embrace this philosophy not only navigate the challenges of an ever-changing world but also position themselves for excellence. The idea that learning is a lifelong journey becomes particularly relevant, as the traditional notion of reaching the height of knowledge is disproved by the constant updates and advancements.

This ongoing transformation emphasizes the notion that knowledge is indeed power. In a world where data and information are updated with the blink of an eye, the ability to harness and apply this information becomes a key determinant of success. The question that arises is whether we, as individuals in this dynamic environment, are making the most effective use of the wealth of information available to us. Are we leveraging the free sources of information at our disposal, or are we just wasting our time scrolling through unimportant gossip and superficial content that contribute little to our personal and professional growth?

It is apparent that the modern world, despite being swamped with information, may be turning a blind eye to the transformative potential of readily accessible knowledge. The challenge lies not only in keeping pace with the updates but also in discerning valuable information from the noise. As the world hurtles forward, those who recognize the power of knowledge and utilize it wisely will find themselves not only adapting to change but thriving during it.

DTM Mario De Silva NDB / Ragama Toastmasters Club

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NEW MEMBER

CORNER In the school stage we all started getting exposure to public speaking. Then after a long time, I became a member of Toastmasters through the guidance of my fellow office mates.

In my very first day at the club meeting, I was bit nervous since I had no idea what was going on. However, with my first impromptu table topic speech, I realised that this is the best platform to develop our public speaking, communication and leadership skills eventually resulting in greater self-confidence.

Each club meeting and club contest I have participated so far proves how well organised this international level education platform is. The fantastic network we are getting exposed to here is fabulous so a huge thank you to DirectFN Toastmasters!!!

TM Poshitha Miguntanna

Cheers!

Joining DirectFN Toastmasters Club has been an exhilarating journey, defining my path toward confident public speaking and leadership. As a fresh face amidst seasoned speakers, each meeting unfolds as a treasure trove of learning.

...foster lasting connections & personal development

Engaging in impromptu speeches during Table Topics sessions has sharpened my ability to think on my feet, fostering quick wit and articulation. The constructive evaluations received from experienced mentors have been invaluable, nurturing my growth and refining my speaking prowess. Collaborating within the club has fostered a supportive network, where every member’s unique journey enriches the collective experience. DirectFN Toastmasters has not only honed my speaking skills but also provided a platform to foster lasting connections and personal development.

As a new member, the club's welcoming spirit and dedication to individual growth have been instrumental in my pursuit of mastering the art of public speaking.

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TM Bushra Uwais

DIRECTFN TOASTMASTERS CLUB

...fellow members across diverse clubs..

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Joining DirectFN was my first ever exposure to Toastmasters, that too thankfully to DTM Dilumi who not only nudged me to join the club but also gave me my first ever table topic in my first ever Toastmaster meeting. Looking back on my short journey with DirectFN Toastmasters, I've gained a whole lot of new experiences. From addressing impromptu topics to taking up the role of contest master and even editing this very newsletter. I’m looking forward to many more exciting experiences and opportunities with DirectFN toastmasters where I can improve my confidence, leadership skills and network with fellow members across diverse clubs and backgrounds!

TM Nethmini Dasanayake

I am Zinthan Salahudeen, and I am thrilled to be featured in the DirectFN Toastmasters Club newsletter. I am a proud alum of D.S. Senanayake College, Colombo and a graduate of the University of Kelaniya. I am a passionate learner who is always looking to grow and develop. That is the reason why I decided to join DirectFN Toastmasters Club, a community of like-minded folks who are all about improving their communication and leadership skills. I am grateful for the opportunity to connect with such an awesome group of people and look forward to the growth that lies ahead! ...joy of being part of this power-packed community

TM Zinthan Salahudeen

I am delighted to be a member of DirectFN Toastmasters Club. From the moment I walked into my first meeting, I was warmly welcomed into a homely atmosphere.

The club has been a source of great speeches, knowledge, and camaraderie. In a short time, I've not only felt recognized in competitions but also experienced the joy of being part of this power-packed community. Proud to be a member of DirectFN Toastmasters Club.

TM Hashan Iqbal

DIRECTFN TOASTMASTERS CLUB

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Level Completion &

TM Kusal Kahaduwa Dynamic Leadership Pathway Level 1

TM Praveen Gunasingha Dynamic Leadership Pathway Level 1

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member RECOGNition TM Yohan Ranasinghe 1st Place Area Humorous Speech Contest - 2023

2nd Place Division Humorous Speech Contest - 2023

TM Zinthan Salahudeen 2nd Place Area Humorous Speech Contest - 2023

2nd Place Area Evaluations Speech Contest - 2023

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MASTERING THE

ART OF PUBLIC SPEAKING Public speaking can be a daunting task, especially for beginners stepping onto the stage for the first time. However, with the right tips and techniques, anyone can develop the confidence and skills to deliver a compelling speech. In this article, we'll explore key strategies that can help beginners shine in front of an audience. your Audience: Understanding Start with a Strong Opening: Grab 01 Know 02 your audience is the foundation of a your audience's attention with a successful speech. Tailor your message to resonate with their interests, values, and expectations.

This connection establishes rapport and engages your audience from the start.

powerful opening. This could be a thought-provoking question, a relevant quote, or a captivating story.

A compelling beginning sets the tone for the rest of your speech.

Your Speech: A wellKeep Rehearsing: Be it front of a 03 Structure 04 structured speech includes an mirror, recording or presenting to a introduction, body, and conclusion.

Organize your thoughts into key points, making it easier for your audience to follow and understand.

friend. This will help you memorize your speech, boost your confidence and smoothen your delivery.

Work on Your Body Language: Non- 06 Manage Nervousness: It's natural to 05 verbal cues play a significant role in feel nervous before speaking in effective communication. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and use gestures to emphasize key points.

A confident and open body language enhances your credibility and connection with the audience.

public. Channel that nervous energy into enthusiasm and passion by taking deep breaths and visualizing success. Remember that the audience is rooting for you!

k Slowly and Clearly: Avoid 08 Engage and seek feedback: 07 Spea rushing through your speech. Speak Encourage interaction by asking at a moderate pace, allowing your audience to absorb your message.

Enunciate words clearly, and use pauses strategically to emphasize important points.

questions and prompting reflections to help your audience retain your message. Seek constructive feedback from peers or mentors which helps identify areas for improvement and build on your strengths.

DTM Dilumi De Silva IIT Toastmasters Club

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A PEEK INTO THE FUTURE...

DEC JAN 2023

2024

Charter Installation Ceremony

New Year Themed Meeting

Speech Marathon

Outdoor Meeting

Christmas Themed Meeting

FEB MAR 2024

2024

Valentine's Day Themed Meeting

Club International Speech &

Speech Marathon

Table Topics Contest

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GUEST TESTIMONIALS For a Toastmasters Club to function, there are 3 E's required: experience, effort, and enthusiasm. Experience, of course, comes with time, but effort and enthusiasm depends on the club's members. DirectFN Toastmasters is fortunate to have an abundance of this from the very beginning. No matter the unexpected challenges that come their way, they charge forward as planned and ensure a fun and valuable meeting is provided to their members.

Throughout the session, there is an energetic and friendly vibe where even the newest, most nervous first-comer would feel welcome. The hard work and dedication of the club is clearly reflected in their most recent achievements, remarkable for a club that is not yet even 1 year old. Can't wait to witness all the greatness that lies ahead for DirectFN Toastmasters Club!

TM Asiri Ekanayake Area Director - Area C2

I pen down this message at a point where DirectFN Toastmasters Club has made its mark during its charter year. With its notable accomplishments of producing winners at the recently held Area contest, 1st runner-up at Division level, shows testament to the talent which the club possesses.

Having visited and interacted with the club openly during the past year, I have observed its members to be dynamic, enthusiastic, friendly and helpful. A key factor, the club culture, provides for a conducive environment to foster growth opportunities in motivating its members to unleash their hidden potential.

TM Vaughn Ernst Club Extension Chair - District 82

Due credit should be given to the executive committee, club sponsors/ mentors with the help of all members and well-wishers that paved the way for excellence. In addition, the management has been the pillar of strength, providing the support and resources, having understood the benefit of the Toastmasters program.

Whilst I am overly confident that DirectFN Toastmasters will truly flourish, I take this opportunity to whole heartedly wish the club the very best in its journey towards greatness.

“Success usually comes to those who are too busy looking for it.” - Henry David Thoreau

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DIRECTFN TOASTMASTERS CLUB

DirectFN Toastmasters

@dfntoastmasters