Maroon Memoirs Issue 2

WHO WE ARE

WHAT IS TOASTMASTERS?

Foundedin1924,ToastmastersInternationalisanonprofiteducationalorganization that buildsconfidenceandteachespublicspeakingskillsthroughaworldwidenetworkofclubs thatmeetonlineandinperson.

270,000+members

TOASTMASTERS MISSION

148countries

▶ We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders

▶ INTEGRITY

▶ RESPECT

▶ SERVICE

▶

14,200+clubs

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 personalgrowth.

PANADURA TOASTMASTERS

CLUB NUMBER - 01122025

Chartered on 1st January 2008, Panadura Toastmasters Club is now home to 30 members. Our club is open to anyone looking to develop their communication and leadership skills while havingfunonaSaturdayafternoon.

AREA I4 DIVISION I DISTRICT 82

REGION 13

WE MEET ON:

1st and3rd Saturdayofeverymonth

2:00pm–5:00pm

ThesaurusComputerCentre, 195Colombo-GalleMainRd, Panadura

FIND US ON:

MAROON MEMOIRS

When the Vice president of Public Relations asked me to be the assistant VPPR for the tenure, I had no idea it would bring me the opportunity to create and publish the second club newsletterofthistenure.

Being the editor of the second newsletter of the Panadura Toastmasters Club for the tenure 2023 - 2024 is truly an honor and privilege I owe to our president, Vice President of Public Relations and the executive committee. Going through the process of creating and editing a newsletter was nothing short of a challenge. However, with the guidance of our president, TM PameshaPeiris and VPPR, TM Venuja Wickramaarachchi, I am todayable to present to you the secondissueof 'MAROON MEMOIRS'.

A lot of members, in and out of the Panadura Toastmasters Club, came together with their contributionstomakethisnewsletterasuccess.Iamtrulythankfultomyeditorialteamandto everyone who contributed to this issue, whether it be with an article, idea or even a small message.

„MAROON MEMOIRS‟ is not just a newsletter. It is an epitome of the strength, unity and passion with which we Panadura Toastmasters walk our path. I hope this newsletter portrays, if not completely, what our club is about. With every page you turn, you dive into the essence andmemoriesofthe PANADURA TOASTMASTERS CLUB.

THE EDITORIAL TEAM

PANADURA

MEHANSA CHANMINI, TM Editor

AssistantVicePresidentPublicRelations PanaduraToastmastersClub

TM MALINDU BATHEEGAMA

TM PAMESHA PEIRIS

TM VENUJA WICKRAMAARACHCHI

COURAGE, CONFIDENCE, COMMITMENT

DearMaroonMemoirsreaders,

Looking back at the eventful journey of 2023/24, I am filled with immense pride inthe collective achievements ofboth myselfandthe esteemed leaders and members of the Panadura Toastmasters Club. As the president, witnessing numerous triumphs in leadership and individual endeavors has beentrulygratifying.

At the forefront of these accomplishments stands the attainment of 10/10 DCP Points before March 30th a remarkable feat that embodies our unwavering commitment to excellence. Furthermore, the receipt of numerous membership awards and witnessing our members shine on the Division Stage, showcasing their courage, confidence, and commitment, fills mewithprofoundprideandsatisfaction

These achievements serve as a testament to the realization of my mission as president to instill courage, foster commitment, and cultivate confidence among our members. Through their relentless dedication and unwavering perseverance, they have not only surpassed personal milestones but have alsoelevatedthereputationofourclubwithintheToastmasterscommunity

As we march forward into the future, I am brimming with anticipation for the continued growth and success of the Panadura Toastmasters Club. Together, we have proven that with COURAGE, CONFIDENCE, and COMMITMENT, we can overcome any obstacle and achieveeverygoalwesetourmindsto.

PAMESHA PEIRIS, TM President

ToastmastersClub

Panadura

UNLEASH YOUR INNER ORATOR:

HONE YOUR VOICE AT PANADURA TOASTMASTERS!

HelloPanaduraToastmasters,

This month, as your Division Director, I want to address a common misconception: the myth of the natural-born speaker. The truth is, as Dale Carnegie famously said, "Great speakers are not born, they're trained."

THE POWER OF PRACTICE

We all have the potential to become captivating speakers. Here at Panadura Toastmasters, we provide the perfect platform to hone your skills and transform yourself from nervoustonoteworthy.

UNLOCKING YOUR VOICE

Through our supportive and encouraging environment, you'lldiscoverthepowerof:

Structured Learning: Our proven program equips you with valuable communication tools and techniques. Learn to craft compelling speeches, engage your audience, and deliver yourmessagewithconfidence.

Practice Makes Progress: Gain valuable stage time and receive constructive feedback from fellow Toastmasters. This practice builds confidence and allows you to refine your delivery.

Overcoming Fear: Public speaking anxieties are common. But with Toastmasters, you'll face your fears in a safe space, gradually conqueringthemandfindingyourvoice.

The Power of Community: Learn from experienced speakers and mentors within the club. Share your experiences and celebrate eachother'ssuccesses.

FROM NERVOUS TO NOTEWORTHY

Imagine being able to confidently deliver presentations that inspire, motivate, or simply leave a lasting impression. At Panadura Toastmasters, this transformation is within reach.

JOIN US!

Are you ready to unlock your inner orator? We invite you to attend our next meeting and experience the supportive atmosphere firsthand. Witness how Toastmasters empowers individuals to become confident and compellingspeakers.

“ ”

Remember, anyone can become a great speaker with dedication and practice. Let PANADURA TOASTMASTERS be your guide on this exciting journey!

CUMINE, DTM

AREA DIRECTOR SPEAKS:

A MESSAGE FROM THE AREA DIRECTOR

DearToastmasters,

As the Area Director, I would first like to congratulate you all for achieving the Presidents Distinguished status for the 12th Consecutive time and achieving 10 DCP goals as the first club in DivisionIfor2023/2024.

I realize, the bulk of this excellence has been resulted through 3 unique values in your clubculture.

1. COURAGE to take challenges and explore creativity.

2. Uplifting CONFIDENCE of newmembers

3. COMMITMENT tofostera senseofcommunity/family.

To me, above values are sacred, and all-encompassing – due to their significance to inspire members Producing two division champions in both humorous and international speech categories who emerged among new members is a testament that Panadura toastmasters have well capitalizedontheabovevalues.

While expressing my humble gratitude to each one of you for your dedication, I wish more power to you to continue nurturinggreatcommunicatorsandleaders

DivisionI

THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT

PAMESHA PEIRIS, TM

pameshapeiris@gmail.com

IworkasaDigitalMarketingExecutiveatSpaCeylonLuxury Ayurveda.Myfriendsknowmeasafoodie.

+94774234496

malindureventon@gmail.com

+94778114882

VP EDUCATION

MALINDU BATHEEGAMA, TM

IamanElectronicEngineerbyprofessionandaninteresting factaboutmeisthatIamanextrovertedintrovert.

VP MEMBERSHIP

RANUDI KULATHUNGA, TM

ranudi.kulathunga@gmail.com

+94752231030

A BBA undergraduate at the University of Colombo here! I’m wellknownforhavingbucketloadsofenergyinasmallbody.

venujalaksika@gmail.com

+94768416713

VP PUBLIC RELATIONS

VENUJA WICKRAMAARACHCHI, TM

You’relookingatanUndergraduateofBITatUCSC.Afunny factaboutmeisthatIamfunnywithouttryingtobefunny.

SECRETARY

DISARA ABEYWICKRAMA, TM

dilshan.madushanka@outlook.com

+94778290043

dewniabeywickrama99@gmail.com

+94719034869

amanEnglishLecturer.Oneofmyhiddentalents,according tomymother,isthatIcanimitateotherswell

TREASURER

DILSHAN MADUSHANKA, TM

IworkasaFinance ManagerinaDutchCompanyandIhave asecretelixirwhichhelpsmetolookandstayyoung

SERGEANT AT ARMS

SERAAN APONSO, TM

chandulajithmi@gmail.com

+94714294186

seraanaponso@gmail.com

+94783280479

I am a final year Software Engineering student. A funny thing aboutme:Iamonlyfunnywhentherearepeoplearound

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

CHANDULA JITHMI, TM

IworkasaCivilEngineeratSriLankaTelecom.Something interesting about meisthatIlovethesmallofcement.

THE PR GAME

Reflecting back on my journey, it all started with a simple 'yes' to TM Binura Dias, my mentor, whenheaskedifIcouldjointheexecutive committee. Little didIknow,that'yes'wouldunlock aworldofhiddenleadershiptalentswithinme,markingthebeginningofmyVPPRjourney

WHY TOASTMASTERS?

Throughout the past year, my path has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. As a novice in the realm of PR, I embarked on my journey with eagerness and determination. One of my earliest endeavors was to create a video introducing our esteemed exco members. With the unwavering support and enthusiasm of my fellow committee members, we turned this vision into a successfulreality.

But behind every achievement, there lies a network of support and guidance. I owe a debt of gratitude to TM Mehansaand the entire PR team, whose unwavering support has been a cornerstone of my journey. With heartfelt appreciation, I acknowledge their unwavering dedication andselflessassistance.

AsIlookahead,Iextendmyheartfeltwishestoeverymember of the Panadura Toastmasters club. May you all pursue your dreamswithunwaveringpassionanddetermination,andmay successbeyoursineveryendeavor.

VENUJA WICKRAMAARACHCHI, TM VicePresidentPublicRelations PanaduraToastmastersClub of Writer Pi

MEMORIES A TRIP DOWN THE

PANADURA

FIRST EDUCATIONAL MEETING OF 2023/2024

FIRST MOT SESSION OF 2023/2024

„VALENTINE‟S‟

„ALOHA BREEZE SOIRÉE‟

„HALLOWEEN‟

„CHRISTMAS‟

THE MEMORY LANE…

EMORIES

FIRST EDUCATIONAL SESSION OF 2023/2024

A RETURN TICKET…

OTHERWISE GONE. ”

„NIGHT‟

„READ A BOOK‟

„BACK TO SCHOOL‟

16TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

„BOLLYWOOD‟

ALOHA BREEZE SOIRÉE

Panadura Toastmasters Club recently held its 10th education session with the collaboration of KDU Toastmasters Club in a lively event titled "The Aloha Breeze Soirée!". The meeting, held on February 10th at the Thesaurus Computer Centre, brought together members from both clubs, creating a vibrant Hawaiianthemedatmosphere.

The venue was transformed into a tropical paradise as Panadura and KDU Toastmasters donned Hawaiian attire, setting the stage for an exciting joint meeting. The occasion was inaugurated by the Sergeant at Arms, followed by the opening remarks from the Presidents of both clubs, TM Pamesha Peiris and TM Dinuvi Jayawardena.

TM Venuja Wickaramarachi shared the club's mission,settingthetoneforthemeeting.

The Toastmaster of the Day, TM Ranudi Kulathunga, infused the gathering with the spirit of Hawaii, introducing unique greetings such as "Aloha" for hello and "Mahalo" for thankyou.Herengagingpresencecaptivated

members, adding a colourful touch to the entireevent.

TM Dinuli, as the Round Robin Master, encouraged members to share interesting anecdotes about themselves, fostering a greater sense of camaraderie between the two clubs.

The meeting featured four exceptional prepared speeches, contributing to an atmosphere of enthusiasm and keeping the audiencefullyengaged.

Adding a dash of excitement, Toastmaster of the day suggested a five-minute dancing break infusingapartyvibeintothegathering.

The Table Topic session, led by TM Daham Yandawala, stood out with unique topic cards featuring his own paintings, showcasing creativityanddedicationtotherole.

TM Isumi Hettiarachchi, serving as the General Evaluator, led an evaluation team that made immense contributions to the day's proceedingsandspeeches.

The event concluded with the signature Panadura Toastmasters Mocktail, leaving a lasting impression on all Panadura and KDU Toastmasterspresent.

The Aloha Breeze Soirée, a successful joint effort, provided toastmasters from both clubs withauniqueHawaiianexperience tocherish.

DILSHAN MADUSHANKA, TM Treasurer

PanaduraToastmastersClub

MEET THE MEMBERS WHO JOINED PTM IN 2024!

‚Ijoined Toastmasters toimprove mypublic speakingskills.‛

GIHAN ARIYARATNA, TM

‚IthinkIwouldimprove mycommunication skills andovercome my shynessby joining Toastmasters.‛

‚Ithoughtjoining Toastmasters will improve my communication skills.‛

PUDAMNIE SEDARA, TM

‚Tobuildabetter version ofmyselfthat's waitingfor mewithopen armsIthink toastmasters isthebest platform.‛

SHEHAN RANASINGHE, TM

‚Iwantedtobreak the monotony ofthe campuslifeandaddjoy andcompanytomylife. SoIjoined the

LITHASA

‚Toimprove my communication and leadership skills.‛

‚I'vebeentryingto makemyselfbetter, whichiswhyIjoined Toastmasters.‚

ROMETH WIJAYASIRIWARDANA, TM

‚Ichoosetojoin toastmasters toimprove mypublicspeakingskills andmakenewfriends.‛

SEWMINI

‚IchoseToastmasters to getover oneofthe biggestfearsinmylife: publicspeaking.‛

NETHMA MALSHANI, TM

YENULI JAYATHILAKE, TM

ASSALARATCHI, TM

RAJITHA LIYANAGE, TM

MALALASEKARA, TM

EXCELLING IN AND OUT

CLUB CONTEST

INTERNATIONAL SPEECH CONTEST

MEHANSA CHANMINI SERAAN APONSO

AREA CONTEST

INTERNATIONAL SPEECH CONTEST

TABLE TOPICS SPEECH CONTEST

DISARA ABEYWICKRAMA

MALINDU BATHEEGAMA

TABLE TOPICS SPEECH CONTEST

NIMASHA FERNANDO

DIVISION CONTEST

INTERNATIONAL SPEECH CONTEST

SERAAN APONSO

MEHANSA CHANMINI

DISARA ABEYWICKRAMA

SERAAN APONSO

MEHANSA CHANMINI

YASITH JAYASINGHE

A RANDOM TEXT TO A DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP

Thisisthestoryof RANUDI: aPanaduraToastmastersClubmemberwhotransformeda BUNCH OF JOKES intoa DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE!

It started with a random text message two weeks prior to the humorous and evaluation speech contest of Panadura Toastmasters Club, when the president hit me up with a "Ranudi you will be contesting this time right?‚ Mainly to avoid the phone call that would follow, telling me of the potential that is going to go to waste if I let go of thisopportunity, Itextedback"YESS!".

Grabbing the chance to compete in the Humorous and Evaluation speech contest. I, armed with wit but lacking direction, took the leap I chose to share a personal story, sharing the unwavering support of my cousins through thick and thin (even when it meant mischief!). At the club level, I secured the second place, fueled by cheers and friendlyfaceswhileTMSeraansealed the first place makingour waytotheArea.

THE HIDDEN FORCES EMERGE

This was when the hidden forces emerged! TM Ravindu Amendra, TM Malindu, and TM Pamesha became my guiding lights. Ravindu polished my puns, Malindu and Pamesha offered expert advice, and the team kept the energy buzzing. The area contest arrived. The audience roared with laughter as I recounted my "crush" (a secret you'll have to uncover at the District Semi Finals if you have no

idea what this is about). I secured the second place again with TM Seraan sealing the first place. The celebration that followed was sweet, shared with fellowPanaduraToastmasters.

THE DIVISION CONTEST

Daysleading up to the Division contest were hectic. TM Ravindu ensured "Pasan" (the crush) was the highlight and our love shone through the story. TM Malindu and TM Pamesha continued their guidance, while TM Parami offered emotional support during my "mild tantrums" about the fierce competition The day of the Division contest, with the active presence of a whole lot of members from Panadura Toastmasters taking up a couple of rows of seats, TM Seraan and I delivered our best while being up against many of the seasoned Toastmasters, he shared the story of Michelle and his mother and I shared the story of my love to Pasan putting the entire audience into fits of laughter. I knew I was up against some incredible competition as I watched the stories of crushes, failures and triumphs unveil in front of me. In the end,sharingthestoryofmyunsuccessfullovestory with my very own Pasan led me to a successful destination as the Division I champion of the Humorous speechcontest 2023/2024.

Many setbacks, many failures and countless moments of almost giving up on the opportunity that I had right in front of me, I am glad I hung on to it, because the fruits have never been sweeter: being able to bring back a Division Championship back home to Panadura Toastmasters Club, getting to say that I get to share the stage with many other seasoned Toastmasters and doing something I love because it is fun! This journeyitselfisaninspiration.Thejourneytaughtmetofindmypassion,chaseitwith gusto, and embrace the support that lifts me up. Laughter can be a powerful tool, leadingtounexpected triumphs andlastingmemories.

In life, find something that you are passionate about and chase it! Not only because you are good at it, because it is also good for you!

”

An MOT session is preliminarily conducted for the benefit of the club and its members. The idea of this session is to sustain club quality through guided evaluations and targeted recommendations.

Recently, the Panadura Toastmasters Club had its MOT session for the year 2024. TM Seraan Aponso figured as the TMOD for the daywhiletheMOTsessionwasconductedby TM Tharindu De Silva from NDB TMC. The sessiontookplaceonJanuary6th,Saturday.

DuringtheMOTsession,TMTharindufirstgaveabriefintroductionaboutMOT.Thenhedivided the meeting into three groups consisting of 8 members each. Each group was given 2 topics to discuss,evaluateandgivepoints

The session was a success as it discussed vital sections that need more attention. It also created a space for each and every member to express their ideas for the betterment of the club as well as creating a room of validation for the members to expresstheirthoughts.

POSITIVE VENUE CLUB GOALS MOT MOMENTS OF TRUTH

RECOMMENDATIONS STANDARDS PR EDUCATION MEETINGS GUESTS TIME

After making room for discussion for about 5 minutes, he asked one member from each group to come forward and present the 2 topics given and also to suggest relevant recommendations to the topics that scored lowmarks.

This helped the members get a general idea of what aspects the club is lacking in, also created anenvironment toacknowledge each must-develop partofthe clubandmake amendments so wecanmoveforwardasaclub.

Overall,thesessionbroughtapivotalchangeintheclub.

NIMASHA FERNANDO, TM Member

PanaduraToastmastersClub

VENUJA WICKRAMAARACHCHI, TM

KAVISHA GIMHANI, TM

NIMASHA FERNANDO, TM

YASITH JAYASINGHE, TM

MEHANSA CHANMINI, TM

PARAMI JAYAMUNI, TM

SHEHANI WIJAYATUNGA, TM

CHANDULA JITHMI, TM

AMASHA

CHANDULA JITHMI, TM

The evening was filled with excitement and laughter on December 30, 2023, as the Panadura Toastmasters Club gathered at the Kulathunga residence for a BBQ bash. This event marked the perfect culmination of the year, creating cherished memories for all in attendance From the carefully curated menu to chilling music, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone, the atmosphere buzzed with fun and excitement, creating an unforgettable finale to the year 2023.

FELLOWSHIP

A MEMORABLE EVENING OF

BBQ BASH PTM BBQ

The BBQ bash wasn't just about good food and laughter. It became a platform for members to strengthen their bonds. Together, we reflected on the past year's highlights, sharing personal achievements, challenges overcome, lessons learned and their resolutions for the new one. Thisdeepenedthesenseofcommunity

FUN AND CAMARADERIE

BASH

OF COURSE, WE CREATED TIKTOKS

The event's reach extended beyond the confines of Kulathunga residence, thanks to the creation of short videos capturing its vibrant spirit shared across various social mediaplatforms.

(www.tiktok.com/@panadura_toastmasters)

Thesesnippetsbecame a virtual memory forus to relive the moments, for past members to catch a glimpse of the current Panadura Toastmasters experience, and a conversation starterforguests.

With sizzling grills and joyful conversations, the BBQ bash was more than just an event. It became a catalyst for lasting connections and shared experiences where members not only learn to speak in public but also learn to connect and grow together. The event demonstrated that fellowship goes beyond the stage, and moments of connection can be as powerfulaswordsspoken inaToastmasters meeting

KAVINDU BIMSARA FERNANDO, TM Member

PanaduraToastmastersClub

VISITOR’S LOUNGE

What VISITING TOASTMASTERS sayaboutthe PANADURA TOASTMASTERS CLUB

LILAN SHAZENDRA WEERABAHU, TM VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION HORANA TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Visiting the Panadura Toastmasters Club was an extraordinary experience. Their exceptional meeting quality and innovative theme were full of reminiscences. Enthusiastic members of the club gave a vibrant energy to the meeting. Engaging with such a dynamic community left me inspired and invigorated. I am truly grateful and thankful for the opportunity to witness firsthand the passion and dedicationthatdefinethePanaduraToastmastersClub.

NALIN DE ABREW, TM MEMBER

DIALOG TOASTMASTERS CLUB

My visit to Panadura Toastmaster Club was unforgettable! They warmly welcomed me and made me feel at home. Energetic members, positive atmosphere, and a vibrant vibe made it a truly memorableexperience.

ISUMI HETTIARACHCHI, TM MEMBER

KDU TOASTMASTERS CLUB

KDU Toastmasters recently had its second joint meeting with Panadura Toastmasters, where I served as the General Evaluator. It was a memorable gathering filled with energy and enthusiasm, as we got the opportunity to meet vibrant young individuals. The Panadura team's friendliness and meticulous organization added to the event's excitement. Remarkably, TMOD Ranudi Kulathunga orchestrated a delightful meeting alongside her tag team, centered on the theme 'Aloha:TheBreezeSoiree',infusinganextralayerofcharm.

USING STEROIDS

As Toastmasters, we are generally asked a few regular questions. The most frequent being, “Why did you join Toastmasters?” The standard response is ‚to become better communicators and leaders‛ And this is, in fact, true We do this by preparing and delivering speeches, evaluating and being evaluated, and by attempting impromptu speaking, under the Pathways educational program.

“WHY DO YOU TAKE PART IN CONTESTS?”

However, there are many more learning opportunities for Toastmasters. Speech contests are one of the most important learning opportunities that we get from our Toastmasters’ membership. This is the response to another frequent question that Toastmasters get asked: “Why do you take part in contests?” Taking part in speech contests is a good way to learn. Each timeacontestcomes up,alotofpreparationhasto be put in, be it in developing speeches, getting ready for impromptu speeches and in become better at evaluations This preparation is what speedsupthelearningprocess,therebyresultingin hastenedself-development.

“WHY DO YOU COMPETE EVERY YEAR?”

Another question I personally get asked is: “Why do you compete every year?” The answer to this is summed up in a quote usually attributed to Nelson Mandela (although the exact origin is not clear). This quote is: ‚You either win or you learn‛. This is the main reason why I compete at every possible opportunity. Each time I win, I work hard to perform better in the next round. Each time I don’t win, I work harder to do better at the next contest.

A FEW MORE QUESTIONS…

Afewmorequestions thatareaskedare:

“Whendoyoustartpreparationforcontest?”

“Howdoyoufindtime?”

“Whatdoyoudotoprepare?”

The best time to start preparing is NOW. Do not wait. Do not delay. Do not procrastinate. You need to make time and create opportunities to prepare for contests. And, the best time and opportunity is to make maximum use of the regular club meetings There is a financial angle to club meetings too If our club meets twice a month, then each meeting costs us approximately $5 ($120 divided by 24; about Rs1,500). In addition, there could be club meeting expenses to which we contribute. Attend each and everyone of these meetings. Do not be absent or arrive late, unless there is a very good reason. Take up any available role. If you don’t have a role, at least try evaluation of speeches, or think of a response to Table Topics, on your own as a practice session. This is a good way to get good value out of our Toastmasters membership. Our membership also gives us the opportunity to visit other clubs This practice will increase the opportunity we get to learn and improve All these will help us learn, improve and thereby getbetter atcompeting.

WHAT I ALWAYS SAY…

If you want to learn fast and maximize the opportunities you get to develop yourself, then you have to take part in contests And take part in contests ateverypossible opportunity. This iswhyI always say, “contesting is Toastmasters education program on steroids”. You will see that your self-development will speed up significantly if youparticipate inspeechcontest.

SPEAK WITH SUNSHINE

THE POWER OF POSITIVE TALK

Hello,toastmasters!

Have you ever thought about how our words can be like rays of sunshine, making our chats brighter? Let's talk about how being positive can make a big difference. It's not about giving big speechesbutjustusingfriendlywordseveryday.

Do you know what Maya Angelou said? She said people might forget exactly what you said, but they'll always remember how you made them feel. In our Toastmasters group, we try to make peoplefeelgoodwithourwords.

Positive talk is more than just being nice; it's about being warm and friendly. Ralph Waldo Emersonsaidthat what you do is so important that sometimes people can't even hear what you say.So,let'snotjusttalkthetalk,butwalkthewalktoo.

Helen Keller once said that when we're alone, we can't do much, but when we're together, we can do a lot Positivetalkhelpsussticktogetherandbestrongerasagroup It'slikecheeringeach otheron!

“ ”

People might forget exactly what you said, but they'll always remember how you made them feel

And don't forget about saying thank you. William ArthurWardsaid it's important to express gratitude. Let's say thank you and make each other feel appreciated. Even when things get tough, remember what Albert Einstein said: there's always an opportunity in every challenge. So, let's stay positive andfindthegoodeveninhardtimes.

As Toastmasters, we're like artists painting with our words, making conversations brighter and more cheerful. Let's keep being kind and encouraging, makingourclubahappyplace.

Remember, your words can make someone's day better!

und of Writer Pi

CHATHUNI DE ALWIS, TM AssistantVicePresidentEducation PanaduraToastmastersClub Backgro

When we're alone, we can't do much, but when we're together, we can do a lot

LET’S HAVE SOME FUN!

ACROSS

Usethecluesto solvethis crosswordpuzzle. Let’sseehowwell youknowyour Toastmasters meetingroles!

CLUES

1. Co-ordinates the meeting agenda in advance and hosts a large portion of the meeting.

4. Helps members to improve their grammar andworduse

5. Counts verbal pauses such as ‘ah’, ‘um’, ‘er’,‘youknow’,‘well’,‘but’,etc.

DOWN

1. Times prepared speeches, Table Topics andevaluations.

2. Selects topics in advance of the meeting that allow speakers to express their opinions.

3. Provide constructive feedback to the speakerstoimprovetheirspeakingskills.

DUMIDI HIRUDIKA, TM Member

PanaduraToastmastersClub

Backgro und of Writer Pi