DTAC 2023 REVIEW MAGAZINE

DTAC’23 DTAC’23 REVIEW REVIEW

CHIEF EDITOR

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

MASHOOD VC

AYSHA SHAHEENA

DESIGN AND ART NOORA MASHOOD

EditorialMessage

Messagefrom:

DistrictDirector

DistrictProgramQualityDirector

DistrictClubGrowthDirector

ClubPresident

DTAC2023Chair

Engage to Empower - Rajesh VC

Striking Pullman Effects - Mashood VC

Inspiration and Diversity - Sundaresan Rajeswar DTM

My Memories of DTAC 2023 - Raghavan Menon DTM

Reflections on DTAC 2023 - Manzoor Moideen DTM

My Experience - Ramakrishnan R DTM

Enriching DTAC - Jaffer Muruchandy

MyDiarymyTreasure-NirmalaRaghuramanDTM Winners

DTAC 2023 Witnessed a Downpour of Awards - Shameer PH

A Journey of Inspiration - Basheer Ahmed

The Role of a Chief Sergeant-at-Arms. - Shanid.T

A Journey in Leadership and Teamwork - Beena Manzoor

OntheShouldersofGiants -TariroDorcasMatibiri

editorial message

Welcome to the 2024 edition of our DTAC 2023 Review Magazine, a publication that embodies the spirit, achievements, and collective growth of the Mindtune Waves Toastmasters Club This year, we have the distinct honor of reflecting on the District Toastmasters Annual Conference (DTAC) 2023, held in the vibrant and dynamic country of Qatar This event stands as a testament to our dedication, growth, and the indomitable spirit of Toastmasters in Qatar

DTAC 2023 in Qatar was more than a gathering; it was a confluence of ideas, cultures, and talents, showcasing the best of what Toastmasters stands for The conference was a platform where dreams took flight, and the future leaders of tomorrow were celebrated Qatar's vibrant setting provided a perfect backdrop for this illustrious event The rich cultural heritage and modern advancements of the host country added a unique flavor to the conference, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees The warmth and hospitality extended by our Qatari hosts enhanced the overall experience, making DTAC 2023 a truly memorable chapter in Toastmasters

This magazine captures the essence of DTAC 2023 through detailed reports and reflective articles that highlight the journey, challenges, and triumphs of our members It serves not only as a record of our accomplishments but also as an inspiration for future endeavors As you turn the pages of this magazine, we hope you will be inspired by the stories of perseverance, creativity, and excellence DTAC 2023 was a milestone event that set a new benchmark for toastmasters around the globe

Thank you to everyone who made DTAC 2023 a phenomenal success, and to all the contributors who have enriched this magazine with their insights and experiences Here’s to celebrating our past achievements and looking forward to a future filled with promise and potential.

Aysha Shaheena

Editorial Coordinator

DTAC 2023 Review Magazine

Mindtune Waves Toastmasters Club

message

District Director

Togetherness is what I feel when I think of Mindtune Waves Toastmasters.

You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in the drop - Rumi

The club embodies this sentiment through its strong sense of community and the true membership experience it offers in their energetic Friday morning meetings, adding enjoyable value to members.

The inspiring waves the club generates reach far beyond their meeting walls Since its inception, the club has gained distinct recognition for excellence and has produced leaders at the District helm as well This success is only possible through the committed hearts, collaborative mindsets, and competitive leaders that come together within the club

I am very impressed with the strides the club maintains consistently in creating multiple opportunities for its members to discover themselves effectively. My special appreciation goes to the club executive committee for driving this initiative.

The club member and community leader, TM Mashood, played a pivotal role in leading DTAC 2023 as Project Manager, and the club members were enthusiastically engaged in the success of DTAC 2023.

It gives me great pleasure to share my heartfelt message in the special edition DTAC 2023 Review magazine. I am sure every reader will find valuable takeaways.

Thank you for inviting me to add my note. I wish all members and the club continued success in this term and beyond.

Ravishankar J District 116 Director

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District PQD

Dear District 116 Toastmasters, members, leaders, guests, and family,

It was a great pleasure to be part of last year's DTAC 2022-23 as a member of the organizing committee It was a tremendous opportunity for me to work with the entire team and learn As they say, teamwork is the dream work All the success of DTAC 2022-23 was due to the beautiful teamwork led by the then District Director, DTM Rajesh VC Organizing such a big event is never easy, but meticulous planning made everything possible and flawless. It was one of the best district conferences I have ever attended from all perspectives

The entire program carried the message of the district director's theme "Engage to Empower" from beginning to end The best speeches from the champions, educational modules, keynote speeches, gala dinner, and training modules enriched our learning experiences I still remember those beautiful photo booths arranged for members to capture memories We carry memories, not things, and I am sure it is the same for all members who attended

In all aspects, the entire program was a great success under the leadership of the main Management Committee team I look forward to being part of such events in the future as well Thank you, everyone, for making that event a big success

Sabeena MK DTM District Program Quality Director

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District CGD

Esteemed Readers Greetings! Since 2015, I have proudly been a member of Toastmasters International Ever since my joining, until today and forever, Contests are my prime source of agglutination to toastmasters.

I am thrilled to share the chronicle of my participation in the esteemed District Toastmasters Annual Conference (DTAC) of 2023 Toastmasters stand as a global entity dedicated to refining public speaking, communication prowess, and leadership acumen

The Toastmasters DTAC is an event brimming with advantages, including unparalleled Networking Opportunities, profound inspiration from Keynote Speakers, and the privilege of witnessing the district's most exceptional speakers in the contest

Last year was no exception too It was indeed a jamboree of all the essential scintilla leaving extraordinary memories in the minds of attendees I enjoyed every bit and most of them remain in pixels in my memory too To name a few The scintillating key notes by Mohammed Shukhri, DTM, PIP Deepak Menon and impactful training session by Vicky Ferror, DTM Contestants in all the categories were truly outstanding and they all gave a tough time to the judges and enthralling experience to the audience. Loads and loads of lessons and motivations… In those sparkling awards rain, I received my award for being the Best Division Director of the year 22-23 Can’t forget the moment I took my charge as the Club Growth Director of D116 in front of cheering members rooting for the District’s success

DTAC 2023 left an indelible mark on my journey It reinforced the concept that learning is perpetual… Looking forward to the next one with heart full of love and best wishes to all of us to make it a grand success through our participation … Let’s be part of the history in making .

Alar Mel Mangai R DTM Club Growth Director, District 116 #LetsDoIt

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club president

It is with immense pride and joy that I share with you the remarkable achievements our club has accomplished recently Mindtunewaves Toastmasters Club has been honored with the President’s Distinguished Award, a testament to the dedication and hard work of each member Additionally, we have secured three Triple Crown Awards, highlighting our members' outstanding personal growth and achievements in the Toastmasters program.

I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to our Chief Editor, Tm VC Mashood, whose leadership and vision have been instrumental in the creation of this magazine. Special thanks go to our Sub Editors, Tm. Aysha Shaheena and Shameer Ph, for their diligent efforts and meticulous attention to detail. Our talented designer, Noora Mashood, deserves a round of applause for bringing creativity and flair to our publication.

A special mention must be made of the entire Executive Committee (ExCom) team. Your relentless commitment, even under the pressure of a very short deadline, has been nothing short of inspiring. Together, you have ensured that this magazine was not only initiated but also published on time, reflecting the true spirit of teamwork and excellence that our club stands for.

Khalid Al- Ahmed DTAC 2023 Chair

message DTAC 2023 Chair

There's nothing more to convey than the fact that it was truly a marvelous experience, encompassing every aspect of greatness.

I had the privilege of chairing DTAC 2023 and collaborating closely with these exceptional talents, whose combined spirit and energy seldom came together in such a remarkable way

And here we meet again as we are a few days away from DTAC 2024 with a great theme that I am sure will be reflected in the event ”Beyond words”, and I am completely confident DTAC this year will be just as special.

I take this opportunity to thank everyone for their huge efforts from the bottom of my heart, thank you very much

On a personal level, I was very impressed with the effort, energy, and momentum that flooded the event during the two days of the conference, and how everyone managed to smile and persevere to make the 2023 version the best, considering it was the second DTAC after a break due to Covid19 and 1st after 2022 world cup, Qatar

Engageto Empower

T

he District Toastmasters Annual Conference (DTAC) 2023, themed "Engage to Empower," was an enriching and memorable experience As District Director, I had the privilege and honor to host this transformative event. The conference was a remarkable display of teamwork, coordination, and leadership, encapsulating the essence of its theme perfectly

The theme "Engage to Empower" was more than just a slogan; it was a guiding principle that shaped every aspect of the event Over 145 dedicated members of District 116 were actively involved in organizing DTAC 2023 This high level of engagement was not only a testament to their commitment but also a clear demonstration of how empowerment through involvement can lead to outstanding results

The event saw an impressive attendance of over 545 members from District 116 The collective experiences shared by the participants were truly the icing on the cake. Attendees spoke highly of the event, praising the exemplary coordination and execution of teamwork that made the conference a resounding success

One of the most valuable lessons I learned mportance of am, listening

Asaleader,Ialways ensuredthatourvision wasnotjustminebut sharedamongallteam members.

The conference reinforced the idea that when leaders trust their teams and provide them with the freedom to innovate and make decisions, the team’s potential is unleashed, often resulting in extraordinary outcomes

Trust is a cornerstone of effective leadership When leaders place their trust in their team, it fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership among members. This sense of ownership is crucial for building confidence, encouraging innovation, and enhancing decision-making abilities On the contrary, micromanagement can severely undermine a team’s confidence and creativity

A shared vision is essential for the success of any event. As a leader, I always ensured that our vision was not just mine but shared among all team members This collective vision was pivotal in driving the event to its successful culmination. The event’s success was not due to the efforts of a single individual but the collective hard work and dedication of the entire team

In conclusion, DTAC 2023 was a powerful demonstration of how engaging and empowering team members can lead to extraordinary achievements. The event underscored the value of trust, freedom, and shared vision in leadership As the District Director 2022-23 term, I am proud to say that the success of DTAC 2023 was a testament to the incredible teamwork and collaboration within District 116 The experience was both empowering and inspiring, leaving a lasting impact on all who participated. I would always remain grateful to my DTAC 2023 team, sponsors, guest speakers & attendees for the unconditional support Sincere gratitude to entire members of District 116 for the highly motivational moral support As a humble servant leader I would always be there for members of District 116

Rajesh VC, DTM District Director 2022-23

The conclusion of a mega program with successful results achieved through teamwork always brings immense glory

DTAC 2024 is one such event where I had the privilege of taking on a leadership role during my social journey. Coordination and organizing have been my passions since childhood, and engaging in different roles within diverse organizations has always empowered my skills along this journey.

I recall my first DTAC in May 2019 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Doha I was not only an attendee but also took on a supporting role for facilities and venue arrangements Although it was not a major role, it inspired and taught me a lot DTM Ravisankar was the team leader, and I still remember his guidance and direction in fulfilling my responsibilities On that day, I visualized taking up a major role in DTAC I express my gratitude to District Director DTM Rajesh VC and the team for trusting me, a volunteer from Thiruthiyad village, to handle the Project Manager role for DTAC 2023, which was successfully conducted at the Pullman Hotel in Doha.

From the declaration of DTAC, volunteers of Toastmasters were ready to take up different roles, working passionately without any insistence or instruction This is the beauty of the Toastmasters fraternity, where everyone knows that whatever we are doing is for the upliftment of each role player and position holder From the bottom of my heart, I express gratitude and appreciation for all the leaders and subcommittee members for their tireless efforts and remarkable contributions, allowing us to enjoy the successful DTAC day today.

Striking Pullman Effects

Associating with Radio Suno Olive Network as a radio partner and spreading the messages and news through official and social media received an impressive response from the public, helping to spread the message of Toastmasters to a broader audience Continuous organizing committee meetings, finalizing the venue after several visits, engaged everyone and empowered the team Finally, a success party was conducted at Oasis Beach Hotel, honoring all team leaders and volunteers of DTAC 2024 with entertainment, which served as a gratitude meet

As the founder president of Mindtune Waves Toastmasters Club, I intended to inaugurate the club with maximum public participation to spread the message of leadership and communication enhancement through the Toastmasters fraternity I am happy to recall and share that the club was launched in 2015 with the attendance of more than 400 public audience members. Once again thanking you all for your support

Mashood.VC Project Manager DTAC-2023 Chief Editor

DTAC’23 Review Magazine

Organizing committee meeting

DTAC Success party at Oasis Beach Hotel

Inspiration and Diversity

The DTAC 2023, with the theme, ‘Engage to Empower,’ definitely met the objective of the Toastmasters annual conference intended to be the culmination of District-wide speech contests, educational presentations, keynote addresses by professional speakers, and the District Council Business Meeting

The District-level speech contests, a highlight of the event, were not limited to English. They also featured contests in Arabic, Tamil, and Malayalam, adding a unique and diverse flavor to the event The quality of these contests was evident when the Qatar winner, Nisha Shivram, reached the world championship finals and secured the runner-up position

Deepak Menon, DTM, the Past International President 2019-20, represented TI at the convention with a keynote speech, training sessions, an open house session, and the installation of new District officers Cyril Junior Dim, the 2022 World Champion of Public Speaking from Poland, provided training on his journey to becoming a champion Mohamed Shukri's outstanding, unique keynote touched the audience on different levels of learning.

DTAC 2023 chairman Khalid al-Ahmad Hamdan; district director Rajesh V C; program quality director Ravishankar; club growth director Sabeena M K; education and training manager Bindu Pillai; sponsorship manager Dewakinandan; district administration manager Aparna Rahnish; DTAC secretary Najla Azad; and project manager Mashood V C put together one of

MyMemories ofDTAC2023

Raghavan Menon DTM

Past District 116 Director

Can’t believe that one year has passed since the last DTAC DTAC 2023 which was on May 26-27 Time is flying I was fortunate to attend this mega event of our District just by destiny I was not to be here As you may know, I had retired in September 2022 and had returned to India While I was enjoying my retired life in my hometown GuruvayoorKerala in India, my previous employer invited me back to Qatar and hence I rejoined my previous employer on May 01,2023 That’s why I said, it was pure destiny that I attended the DTAC 2023 and could meet all my old friends & the Past International President Distinguished Toastmaster Deepak Menon, who was the Chief Guest & Key Note Speaker of DTAC 2023. We all remember Deepak Menon, DTM, PIP motivated us with his Key Note Speech titled “Fight or Flight” during the DTAC.

I have known Deepak Menon, DTM, PIP for the last many years I met him first in 2018 at the International Convention at ChicagoUSA when I was the Program Quality Director of D116 That time he was the International President elect Later Deepak Menon, DTM, PIP became the International President, when I became the District Director of D116

As a customary tradition of taking a picture with the International President by the official photographer of Toastmasters International is a privilege for the District Directors of that year I also had a photo opportunity with Deepak Menon DTM, PIP during the International Convention 2019 at Colarado-USA

As always DTAC 2023 was flooded with various contests & speeches by eminent speakers & leaders One of the highlights of DTAC 2023 was witnessing Malayalam speech Contest for the very first time in the entire world Malayalam language was included as one of the approved languages by Toastmasters International & conducting Malayalam language contest in the DTAC 2023 was approved by the District ExCom & Council in 2022. There was huge enthusiasm from the contestants as well as by the organizers of the 11 Malayalam Clubs (Qatar holds the record for the highest number of Malayalam clubs in the world). For me it was a dream come true to bring Malayalam language to Toastmasters International’s contest stage by bringing it in a District 116 Toastmasters Annual Conference: a first in the world that all of us can be proud of

Overall DTAC 2023 was a memorable event that is remembered by all the attendees for a long time Thank you to District Director Rajesh VC and all the organizers & volunteers who made it a grand success Looking forward to the DTAC 2024

Reflectionson DTAC2023

ManzoorMoideen,DTM

DistrictDirector2021-2022

District116

Being part of the organizing committee for the District Toastmasters Annual Conference has been an extraordinary journey for me, as the Immediate Past District Director of District 116

The planning process began months in advance, with a dedicated team of passionate Toastmasters. Our initial meetings were filled with brainstorming sessions, as we sought to create a conference that would inspire, educate, and connect members from across the district The theme selection was a pivotal moment, encapsulating the spirit and vision we wanted to convey

As the event approached, the workload intensified The team under the able leadership and guidance of DTAC Chair Khalid Al Ahmad Hamdan, District Director Rajesh V C, DTM, District PQD Ravishankar, DTM & Mashood Thiruthiyad meticulously planned every detail, from securing a venue to coordinating with speakers, arranging workshops, and ensuring a smooth flow of events One of the most rewarding aspects was collaborating with such a diverse group of individuals Each team member brought unique skills and perspectives, making our collective effort more robust and comprehensive As the conference days unfolded, the months of hard work culminated in a spectacular series of events. From the opening ceremony to the educational sessions and the grand finale, each moment was filled with enthusiasm and engagement The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the value they gained and the connections they made, especially the Keynote speech by Mohamed Shukri, the one and only Accredited Speaker from Middle East as of today.

One of the most heartwarming aspects was witnessing the impact on participants Toastmasters, new and seasoned alike, shared how the conference had inspired them to pursue new goals, refine their skills, and deepen their commitment to the Toastmasters community. It reinforced the importance of our mission and the power of collective effort

In closing, being part of the organizing committee for the District Toastmasters Annual Conference was more than just an assignment; it was a journey of personal and professional growth I look forward to leveraging this experience in future endeavors and continuing to contribute to the Toastmasters community

MyExperience

Engaging District 116 Toastmaster Annual Conference with Annual contest in presence of Regional 11 Adviser DTM Rajeswar Sundaresan Director, International Presidents DTM Deepak Menon, reginal advisers for a two-day session 26th & 27th May 2023

Ramakrishnan R DTM Division G Director

District 116

After hearing the speech by Shukri on the topic “The one and only” and following his presentation we love our self and express our potential to the world loudly. Such an inspiring speech and strong take away message.

Once in a year we meet each other from different divisions, thanks to DD Rajesh VC bringing large number of us together and making a smooth flow of the event Our Contestants engaged us by their elevated content and practice The key highlights were strong message on international speech, engaging humorous speech, elevating evaluations, spontaneous table topic speeches.

After attending Mindutunewaves club meeting on a Friday morning with breakfast, we feel relaxed as every member of the club is unique Well managed club with humorous champion speakers, experienced Toastmaster with high caliber, best organizers for mega events like DTAC, district leaders, book writer, humble and true leaders are combination of the club members Mindtunewaves was achieving most of the rewards from Division and District, on time renewals and consistent member strength, regular meetings, consistent on educational awards are the added advantage of the club successes.

Jaffer Muruchandy Area 26 Director

EnrichingDTAC

Each contestant delivered outstanding performances, showcasing their talents and dedication to excellence. Notably, the role players, including the Sargent at Arms, demonstrated exceptional competence and contributed to the overall success of the conference Over the course of the two-day event, I found myself immersed in a wealth of knowledge, information, and motivation that promised to enrich both my personal and professional life significantly

As an attendee, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of excitement throughout The lineup of keynote speeches was great inspiring, with DTM Mohammed Shukri's address particularly standing out for its depth and emotional resonance.

The 2022-2023 DTAC Conference held at the Pullman Hotel Qatar was a remarkable gathering that left a lasting impression on all attendees Under the leadership of District 116 Director DTM Rajesh VC, Program Quality Director DTM Ravishankar, and Club Growth Director Sabeena MK, alongside DTAC Project Manager VC Mashood, the event boasted an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm and anticipation

My Diary my Treasure TwodaysofMela

While I was flipping the pages in my diary, on 26th and 27th may that reminded me of the time well spent in DTAC 2023 at Pullman Hotel, Doha. I had an amazing time meeting International toastmasters Speaking to them and clicking photos with them will always be an unforgettable experience in my life English, Arabic and Tamil contests were held separately during those two days of Mela where toastmasters were Networking, giggling, smiling, taking photos and exchanging greetings I have seen Volunteers, role players, contestants, District Excom worked untiringly to host a mega event in style for all the toastmasters of District116. As soon as I entered, the butterflies(Gavelliers) welcomed me. The registration team were so colorful and gave me my lanyard and I was guided to a ball room I was so amazed to see the big hall with many chairs and tables like a white swan and I could see parrots, doves, sparrows sitting and giggling with one another

First day there was Banner parade and club officers were walking with their club banners to the music played in the hall As soon as the Chief sgt at arms TM Shanid started, there was a pin drop silence and everyone was focusing on the stage. We had Evaluation speech contest first. District Directors award for the previous year was given in the first session. Then we had prayer and lunch break In the second session we had Humorous speech contest and one keynote speech and District Leadership recognition was there We had a coffee break followed by training Then we had individual trainings Language international speech contests were conducted simultaneously in the same venue Contestants amazed the audience with their scripts, proficiency, delivery style and skills Each contest chair did justice to their roles. We were excited to know the winners.

There were four Amazing keynote address. Our International past president Deepak Menon gave an amazing speech with the title, “Fight or Flight”. Keynote speech by World Champion Syril Junior Dim with the title, “It takes a village: building a circle of trust” Key note address titled, “The One And Only” by Mohammed Shukri inspired the audience Keynote address by Cajetan Barretto on “Future of Public Speaking with AI” was so exciting

There were Educational Training Sessions by 6 Trainers with different titles.

1 DTM Vicky Ferror Mustafa “Intelligence & Improv in the Business Settings ”

2 DTM Joeseph Shabu Stanley “Value-Based Leadership”

3 DTM Vinod K Pishoram “Stay Curious & Deploy Creative Thinking ”

4 CHP Kumar “Plan for your Stress-Free Future ”

5 Shaheema Hameed “Mastering time: the art of Business Etiquette”

6. Fadey Abi Daoud “Creative Problem Solving.”

There were 7 training rooms and each room with an MC and a group photo was taken at the end A big spread of breakfast, lunch, and dinner was served Few toastmasters stayed in the same hotel and enjoyed their staycation too We had a Gala Dinner with the theme “Arabic Nights” which was so amazing The Gala Dinner chair TM Rassum Sait and his team enthralled the audience with a variety of programs like group games, quizzes, songs, dances, and music. It was concluded with prize distribution to winners and a yummy dinner.

On the Second day, the District 116 PR Awards were announced Then we had a keynote address The newly elected District officers were inducted I was chosen as a Division E Director, It was a nostalgic moment for me in my toastmaster journey Then we had the Mother of all the contest which is International speech Contest was conducted very well and I could hear excellent speeches

It’s a treasure ofour past, present andfuture

Then we had coffee break and Sponsors of the event were recognized Finally they recognized Dtac organizing committee and honored the guests. Then winners were award and the event was concluded with a group photo So writing daily in the diary is not only a good time pass for us but also brings back our memory It’s a treasure of our past, present and future

Nirmala Raghuraman DTM DED

winners

DTAC2023Witnesseda DownpourofAwards

BalkeesNasserDTM’sExemplaryContributions

DTAC 2023 was a remarkable event, highlighted by an impressive array of awards and accolades secured by Toastmasters in Qatar The most commendable of which was the awards bestowed to Balkees Nassar DTM Their contribution and presence to the fraternity is an inspiration to all toastmasters

A Beacon of Excellence

Balkees Nasser stands as a prominent figure in Qatar’s Toastmasters community, not only for her exemplary work within the organization but also for her involvement in various social, cultural, and charitable endeavors. Her dedication and commitment have made a significant impact on the community.

Dedication Beyond Boundaries

Despite residing in Al Khor, which is quite a distance from Doha, Balkees ensures her presence in Doha from dawn to dusk for all District 116 activities Whether it’s district council meetings, contests, or other events, Balkees’s involvement was unwavering and impactful

A Diverse Toastmasters Journey

Balkees started her Toastmasters journey with Mindtune Waves Toastmasters Club in 2018. Demonstrating her commitment and enthusiasm, she became a member of different clubs each year. In 2021-22, she was part of 11 Toastmasters clubs in Qatar, showcasing her dedication to the organization.

Leadership and Achievements

Balkees has held numerous leadership roles within Toastmasters, including Past Division H Director, Past Area 3 Director, and 17 other executive roles in various Toastmasters clubs Last year, she served as the Division H Director, a role in which she excelled Under her leadership, Division H achieved the prestigious President’s Distinguished status One of the most significant accomplishments of her tenure was being able to provide 28 Toastmasters with the Mentor Sponsor Credit required to earn Distinguished Toastmaster status, marking a i l i h l d

Honors and Awards

Balkees’s exceptional contributions have been recognized through numerous awards:

Distinguished Toastmaster Award

Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year 2019-2020 Oryx Award

Falcon Award 2019-2020 for Most Committed Toastmaster of the Year

Toastmaster of the Year award from Mindtune Waves TM Club

Three-time recipient of the Triple Crown Awards

Influences and Mentorship

Throughout her Toastmasters journey, Balkees has been influenced and mentored by some of Doha’s senior Toastmasters, including Raghavan Menon DTM, Rajesh VC DTM, TM VC Mashood, and TM Basheer Kavalappara etc. Their guidance has played a crucial role in her development and success within the organization

Sponsoring Growth

Adding to her impressive list of contributions, Balkees has sponsored approximately 110 members, further demonstrating her commitment to the growth and development of the Toastmasters community in Qatar.

Passions and Personal Life

Cooking is one of her passions. She has received many prizes, including First Prize in the International Cooking Competition conducted by Qatar Gas at Al Khor Community She hails from Punnayurkulam in the Thrissur district of Kerala Balkees has been residing in Qatar for 27 years She is happily living with her husband and three children

For around 18 years, Balkees has been working as an administrative staff member at Al Khor Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation Her professional dedication mirrors her commitment to her personal and Toastmasters endeavors.

Conclusion

Balkees Nasser DTM’s story at DTAC 2023 is one of dedication, leadership, and community spirit. Her achievements and contributions have set a high standard and continue to inspire many within and beyond the Toastmasters community. As we celebrate the successes of DTAC 2023, Balkees Nasser DTM’s legacy stands as a testament to what passionate and committed individuals can achieve Shameer PH Past President

BasheerAhmed ImmediatePastPresident

The momentum and curiosity were at their height, the date was slowly approaching for the DTAC 2023 I was very eager to experience my very first DTAC

On 26 May 2023, I reached early in the morning at the elegant venue, the Hotel Pullman Doha. Only some senior Toastmasters were present at the venue, busy ensuring all the arrangements were in order to welcome a big audience of 500+

After completing the registration and enjoying the delicious breakfast, I slowly moved to the main hall The ballroom was well equipped to amaze the participants The agenda listed all the keynote speakers, including Cyril Junior Dim, the WCPS 2022 The name DTM Mohammed Shukri caught my attention because of his very special name

I joined our Mindtune Waves Toastmasters club members Mashood VC, Jafar Murchandi, Saeed Salman, etc., and we were all well-seated to benefit from various speeches and training sessions In the evening session, the MC introduced Mohammed Shukri, the accredited speaker He started his amazing delivery Within seconds, there was pin-drop silence, and the way he attracted the audience was miraculous He started with his childhood, moved to his parents, then to his college life

He spoke about the degree he had achieved and how proud he was of his career in the Electrical Engineering field

He brought up his baba and the beautiful relationship he had with his friend from India

Later, his dad was under treatment for a severe ailment, and the way he presented the reunion of his father with his friend in India was really mindboggling

He faced various setbacks in his career He portrayed his Toastmasters journey in a very different way At last, he lost his prestigious job He was back at home in a desperate situation He looked at his various certificates, including Toastmasters' highest achievements, in a sarcastic mood He crushed his certificate symbolically and threw it to the audience. But one day, he received a call from a high-ranking company asking for his qualifications The person on the other end of the phone said, "We are going to appoint you " He replied, "There are thousands of candidates with the same qualifications; why do you want me?" Then he got the reply that there were thousands, but there was only one Shukri with this degree and power of communication

My dear friends, the power of communication is astonishing When it is added to any of your major qualifications or talents, it will multiply the value several times. TM Shukri's speech took the audience on a poignant journey He shared his personal stories of setbacks and hardships, emphasizing how these experiences had shaped his character and strengthened his resolve to pursue his goals

In conclusion, Mohammed Shukri's keynote speech at DTAC 2023 was a powerful testament to the human spirit's capacity for growth, resilience, and inspiration His story resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of Toastmasters

StoryasTheRoleofa ChiefSergeant-at-Arms.

Shanid.T

CSAA- DTAC 2023

Understanding the Role:

"Today

is the day we all are excited for... Today is the day we have dreamed of..."

You might have heard the above lines at the very beginning of DTAC 2023 Yes, that's the way I started Being entrusted with the role of Chief Sergeant-at-Arms, it is my true honor to share the incredible stories of DTAC 2023 Firstly, I was a bit skeptical to take up the role as I thought whether I could do justice to this very responsible role, but my leaders and mentors, including the founder member of Mindtune Club, TM Mashood V.C, inspired me to take up the role And I am always thankful to leaders like him for making me believe in myself

The Sergeant-at-Arms holds a position of authority to serve everyone, ensuring the smooth running of the conference, compliance with rules and procedures, and providing security when necessary

Upholding the Team in Order and Decorum:

All my team members were aligned with very formals and performed pivotal roles in facilitating smooth proceedings. We maintained a respectful and enjoyable atmosphere in all conference rooms In addition to preserving order, my crew members provided fantastic hospitality to the DTAC guests

What We Learned:

Perhaps most importantly, serving the role as SAA is a great learning experience Collaborating with fellow officers and members, exercising sound judgment, and demonstrating professionalism are essential aspects of the role Through effective communication and cooperation, the Sergeant-at-Arms contributed to the overall success and cohesion of the conference

In conclusion, the experience of serving as Chief Sergeant-at-Arms has both enriched and inspired me to find a new inner leader within me It requires a combination of diplomacy, assertiveness, and integrity to fulfill the duties effectively From maintaining order and compliance to providing security and leadership, all the Sergeant-at-Arms played a vital role in the smooth functioning of DTAC.

By sharing insights and lessons learned from my last DTAC, I believe we can contribute our capacity towards the development and success of any event, organization, or project

My heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Mindtune Toastmasters Club

AJourneyin Leadership andTeamwork

Beena Manzoor Program Manager

DTAC 2023

District 116

In the heart of Qatar, at the elegant Pullman Hotel Doha, the Toastmasters Annual Conference 2023 unfolded into a remarkable testament to leadership, collaboration, and personal growth. As the District Director Rajesh V C, DTM and Project Manager Mashood VC entrusted me with orchestrating this prestigious event, my journey was not just about coordinating the program as such; it was a transformative experience that enriched my understanding of teamwork, crisis management, and effective leadership

From the outset, the responsibilities of overseeing such a significant gathering were daunting However, with the ethos of Toastmasters International guiding me, I embraced the challenge with determination and enthusiasm

Designating tasks was not merely about assigning duties; it was about recognizing the unique strengths of each team member and fostering an environment where everyone could excel Mentoring emerged as a crucial aspect, as I guided team members to hone their skills and unleash their potential.

Motivating others amidst the inevitable challenges that arose during the conference was a lesson in resilience and perseverance Crisis management became an unexpected yet invaluable facet of my role. In the face of adversity, I learned to remain calm, think swiftly, and rally the team towards effective solutions

However, perhaps the most profound lesson gleaned from this experience was the essence of teamwork. Each success, whether big or small, was a testament to the collective efforts of a dedicated team united by a common goal

Furthermore, the conference served as a crucible for honing my leadership skills Through delegation, empathy, and leading by example, I discovered that true leadership is not about exerting authority but inspiring others to reach their full potential

In retrospect, the District 116 Toastmasters Annual Conference 2023 was not just an event; it was a transformative journey that deepened my understanding of teamwork, leadership, and personal growth Guided by the timeless values of Toastmasters International and inspired by the wisdom of renowned leaders, it reinforced the belief that greatness is achieved not by individual prowess, but by the collective strength of a unified team As Henry Ford aptly put it, "Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success".

Onthe Shoulders ofGiants

Sir Isaac Newton, the famous English scientist, once said, “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” To anyone who may be wondering, I firmly believe that Sir Newton used this metaphor to show how he too used the understanding gained by major thinkers who have gone before him, in order to make intellectual progress This was evident in how he made reference to Des-Cartes (a French philosopher, scientist and mathematician) in his letter to Robert Hooke

Looking back at the District 116 Annual Conference of 2023, I too have gone far today by standing on the shoulders of giants and gaining much knowledge from the sessions shared by both previous world championship stage contestants

From Mohamed Ali Shukri, DTM, I learnt the Power of ONE, and how all the dots in my life eventually connect looking backwards I always used to wonder how my law degree, a major in intellectual property, a diploma in marketing and being an author, editor, teaching assistant and Toastmaster would ever make sense I am glad I heard Mr Mohameds encouraging words Today, I am carving my space in the education industry working with young minds to help them become better essay writers in preparation for university Looking back, I am the first Zimbabwean, five time author, award winning speaker and copyright expert to be in the education field in my school, shaping my future for the benefit of the learners around me

During DTAC of 2023, I also had the humbling experience of meeting a fellow Zimbabwean, who I must say, continued to make me proud of being Zimbabwean From Cyril Junior Dim, the 82nd and youngest World Champion of Public Speaking, I learnt how to be authentically me I learnt how to own who I am and be proud of my journey as a human being and overly, as a Toastmaster In all the years that I have been a Toastmaster, since 2011, I can never say this enough: invest in yourself, it is the best decision you will ever make in your life Where else would I have met people who have graced the World Champions stage with their presence? I look forward to many more conferences in District 116 where I get to network, learn, see other Toastmasters, eat good food and above all - have the privilege of standing on the shoulders of giants.

Tariro Dorcas Matibiri

AToastto Transformation:

rofessional and personal growth, few ndelible mark quite like the District ual Conference (DTAC) With its of speeches, training sessions, and the DTM Mohammed Shukry's masterful TAC 2023 stands out as a beacon of sformation for me as well as the entire y

DTAC 2023 held a profound significance pectacle. Amidst the throes of recovery y, the allure of DTAC proved irresistible, hysical limitations and summoning a clad myself in the vibrant hues of a Sri g and shirt, being the then incumbent Division G and proud representative of stmasters Club Qatar, attended DTAC 2023 at the Pullman Hotel Doha

The ambiance of the venue was meticulously curated to enhance the immersive experience and did set the stage for moments of profound revelation and collective celebration. From the meticulous attention to detail in logistics and registration to the culinary delights that tantalized the senses, every facet of DTAC 2023 exuded an air of grandeur and sophistication

However, it was the keynote session, aptly titled "ONE & ONLY," that stole the show and left an indelible impression on all fortunate enough to bear witness DTM Mohammed Shukry's impassioned delivery, coupled with poignant personal anecdotes and unwavering conviction, resonated deeply with the audience His message, a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief in sculpting the one and only version of oneself, elicited a unanimous standing ovation a fitting tribute to a speaker whose words transcended the confines of the stage

In the aftermath of DTAC 2023, the echoes of DTM Shukry's keynote continue to reverberate, serving as a guiding light for all who dare to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and growth As I reflect on the transformative impact of the conference, gratitude abounds for DTM Shukry and the dedicated organizing team whose tireless efforts brought DTAC 2023 to fruition

As the curtain falls on DTAC 2023, the fervent hope arises for many more iterations of this seminal event in the years to come For in the hallowed halls of DTAC, amidst the camaraderie of fellow Toastmasters and the wisdom of esteemed speakers, lies the promise of endless possibilities and the perennial pursuit of excellence

Salman Hilmi

Immediate Past Division G Director

Sri Lankan Toastmasters Club – Qatar

Ashwin

AMemorable Partnership

Olive Suno Radio

As the proud media partners of DTAC 2023 conducted at Pullman Hotel, West Bay, Doha, it was truly a memorable experience for us at Olive Suno Radio Network From the first interaction that we had with the Excom of DTAC 2023 Qatar in our studios, we felt that each of the members of the committee embody the values of Toastmasters InternationalIntegrity, Respect, Service and Excellence.

Having collaborated with District 116 of Toastmasters International, we could witness at first hand as to how well the theme of DTAC 2023 Qatar- Engage to Empower is congruent with the purpose behind which Toastmasters International was formed 100 years ago. The centennial year of the forming of this global non-profit organization couldn’t get a more befitting commemoration and that’s what DTAC 2023 Qatar has achieved

The overall energy during both days of the event was palpable- both on and off the stage Witnessing the champion speakers all over Qatar competing for the coveted title of District Champion of Public Speaking was truly a sight to behold! We were awestruck by the public speaking skills of speakers such as Division Director DTM Rajesh V C, PIP DTM Deepak Menon, WCPS 2022 DTM Cyril Junior Dim, DTM Nisha Shivram and others and were astonished by the attention that all the speakers were able to garner from the audience We look forward to DTAC every year and are eager to be a active part of DTAC as the proud Media Partners!

closingremarks ChiefEditor

Looking back, a beginning

Always do things differently; this policy I have tried to practice in my life, both in social and professional areas Based on an enquiry with senior Toastmasters leaders about whether any review magazine had been released in Qatar to recollect the exhilarating memories of DTAC, the answer was “no ” From that perspective, I thought of releasing this review magazine, and it is the first of its kind in Qatar Toastmasters history. "DONE." I am really proud to be part of it and express gratitude to the entire team for their support and to the leaders for providing articles on short notice

I wish to specially appreciate my daughter Noora Mashood She was a member of the Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program (YLP) while studying at Noble International School and is currently studying at Farook College She came here on a short leave, and with her passion and dedicated support in layout and artwork, we were able to fulfill this dream Special thanks to Shameer PH for his immense support behind the curtains as usual

As we know, out of 2000 plus Toastmasters members in Qatar, only 15 to 20 percent participate in DTACs, which may be due to financial or other reasons By going through the inspirational messages and experience-sharing articles, I am sure members will get the motivation to attend DTAC in the future Hence, I request members to share these types of magazines among all club members

As founder president of Mindtune Waves Toastmasters Club, I am happy to share that from the inception of our club, we never faced any problems with the continuity of leadership terms, as many leaders are in line to take up the roles. The club inauguration was also done with the participation of more than 400 people at Ideal School open ground, which was also a milestone in the history of Toastmasters in Qatar.

Once again, thank you all for the belief and appreciation in assisting with the release of this review magazine, which is only the beginning and can be continued after each DTAC in the future.

Mashood VC Chief Editor

DTAC 2023 Review

mashoodvc@gmail com