Scroll - ADTC Newsletter 2021-2022

THE SCROLL QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

JULY-SEPT 2021

ARABIAN DREAMS

TOASTMASTERS CLUB

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXCOM 2021-2022................................................................01 WELCOME ABOARD.............................................................02 THE ADVENTURE OF A TOASTMASTERS.............................04 FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT..................................06 WHAT IF THERE IS NO TOMORROW?.................................07 GOLD MEDAL OR.................................................................09 CONGRATULATIONS...........................................................11 NEW TOASTMASTER............................................................12 "GOSSIPING"........................................................................13 BUDDHA’S BRAIN................................................................14 MANAGING PERSONAL FINANCES....................................16 FRONTLINE WARRIOR.........................................................17 EDITORIAL BOARD...............................................................19

ARABIAN DREAMS TOASTMASTERS CLUB

CLUB 1671090 | AREA 30 | DIVISION I | DISTRICT 105

EXCOM 2021-2022

RUTH FERNANDES PRESIDENT RYAN MALCOLM D'SA VP EDUCATION

VENZIL FERNANDES VP MEMBERSHIP

VINISHA HAZEL MENEZES VP PUBLIC RELATIONS

GLEN FERREIRA TREASURER

DR SUDHA PATHAK SERGEANT AT ARMS AVIL PINTO IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

adtcdubai@gmail.com

RAHUL ANAND SECRETARY

"WELCOME ABOARD!"

DR. ABDUL SATHAR, DTM DIVISION I DIRECTOR DISTRICT 105 2021-2022

"Welcome aboard" The flight stewardess welcomed me into the aircraft. I was flying after a long break and so I was excited! I was given a nice cozy reclining window seat near the emergency exit. Soon the flight took off and started gaining height. Looking down through the window from a soaring flight is my favorite activity. The long winding roads and large cars and trucks slowly turn into dots. And big tall humans slowly turn into small ants! Slowly the flight soared higher and I drifted into my thoughts. I was thinking about these ant sized people. Unfortunately, the majority of them will turn into Laborers and blue collar workers and very few will be positive contributors to growth in society. Is it luck or is it conscientious striving that helps this small group grow? That’s when I thought of the steps I went through in life. How I transformed into a better person with help and support from so many others. I wish every one of them knew a way out of their day-to-day drudgery and be a part of the selected few.

That's when I thought of our Toastmaster world. Where leaders are made! How fortunate are we to be part of it! I felt we have a duty. Not just that each one of us should strive to be better leaders and better communicators we also should help others to do the same.

Arabian Dreams Toastmasters Club has always been a guiding light to many professionals looking for growth through public speaking and leadership training. I am confident that every one of us at Arabian Dreams will achieve great heights through this excellent learning platform and the experience it provides!

Wishing goodluck to you all!!

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

PAGE 02

Dear Readers, I must say that every Toastmaster will self-realize this powerful statement from the founder of Toastmasters International Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, sooner or later in his or her journey with this great organization.

In Toastmasters, we are driven and guided by two key elements.

One, values of Toastmasters International – Integrity, Respect, Service, and Excellence. Two, 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”.

I strongly believe that these core values and the Club Mission are not only applicable in the world of Toastmasters but following it conscientiously will help us everywhere in our lives. We will see ourselves developing as better communicators and leaders which in turn brings success, in every form – both in our professional and our personal lives.

The education program offered by Toastmasters International is a self-motivated and self-driven program where we have support from selfless mentors and guides at every step in our journey. It is not at all an overstatement if I say that no other organization in the world offers such an effective program at such a low cost.

RUPESH TANNA, DTM PAST DIVISION I DIRECTOR DISTRICT 105 2020-2021

And to reap the fruits of this program, the only requirement from us as a member of the club is to attend club meetings regularly and participate actively. It is as simple as that and then we experience what Dr. Ralph C. Smedley quoted “Toastmasters are educators, whether they realize it or not, and toastmasters is more than a club --- it's an education”.

Arabian Dreams Toastmasters Club is my home club from where I started this amazing journey in 2015 and this club has never shied away from providing me that learning and development opportunity which was much needed in my life. I thank all the past and present Club Leaders and members who have contributed positively in my life and in the lives of many other members like me.

Here is where I experienced one of the famous quotes from Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, “We learn best in moments of enjoyment.

Best wishes, Arabian Dreams Toastmasters Club and all its members.

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

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THE ADVENTURE OF A TOASTMASTER LORRAINE FERNANDEZ AREA 30 DIRECTOR | DIVISION I | DISTRICT 105 2021-2022

“Life is a journey that must be travelled no matter how far the destination seems” …this precisely describes my journey in Toastmasters. This adventure of 2 years is perhaps one of the most winding roads travelled with breathtaking sights and lifelong learning experiences, which have indeed impacted my life.

Enroute, my first excursion as a Vice President Education compelled me to ask myself one vital question, “Why did I join Toastmasters???”… And the answer to this was my beacon of light that helped me put members first and ensure an environment of knowledge and camaraderie. Travelling down this beaten path opened up a world of beautiful possibilities and I explored the roles of Area 30 PQD, a Club Mentor to Arabian Knights TMC and the SAA at WOW Toastmasters Club.

With a newfound passion to ensure that members fulfill their purpose and succeed, made me realize that my journey does not end here, so I decided to embark on a beautiful hike and discover the intriguing sights of being an Area 30 Director. As I climb and cross obstacles, there is a continuous learning along the way that continues to mold me into a better communicator and eventually an efficient leader.

Inherently, I am a person who would travel off the beaten path, but Toastmasters has taught me that instead of always going down the road less travelled, sometimes it’s nice to walk the path most travelled on and leave behind a memorable trail.

I have surely come a long way with Arabian Dreams Toastmasters Club and I thank my mentors and well-wishers who have travelled alongside me. I am sure that there will be many more enchanting forests to explore along the way.

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

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ANKIT MEHRA, DTM PAST AREA 30 DIRECTOR, DIVISION I, DISTRICT 105

I realized the importance of this wonderful quote as I reminisce my accidental meeting with a school friend Kunal Pabrai on a rainy evening in Kolkata. He told me about this public speaking club he was starting in the city and if I would like to attend.

I often wonder, what if I had said no. As most of us do, our first reaction to any proposition is ‘No’, ‘Not now, ‘I don’t have time, and lose out on life-changing events. I feel blessed I said yes to Kunal and joined Toastmasters. If there is one decision of my life that I can call life-changing it would be participating in Toastmasters wholeheartedly.

"WE DON’T MEET PEOPLE

BY ACCIDENT, THEY CROSS OUR PATHS FOR SOME REASON." - RUMI

From a nervous, anxious, and frightened talker to a confident public speaker – the Toastmasters journey has been nothing less than remarkable. And the best part is, my journey continues; there is no destination in this pathway of mastery, there is only constant growth and learning.

I have been a part of the Arabian Dreams Toastmasters Club (ADTC) for over six years. It was my first Club which I visited in Dubai and it felt like a second home! The journey in ADTC has been a roller-coaster ride and I am pleased to say the club is currently at its zenith of success.

ADTC has also given me an opportunity to discover my skills as a leader which I believe is the crux of my Toastmasters journey. Having served in multiple roles on the executive committee over the years and currently, as Area Director, my biggest learning is that every successful leader must serve his members and team first. Perhaps this is the secret with all great global leaders, be it in politics or the corporate world. Toastmasters teaches us just that!

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

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FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT……..

It gives me a great deal of pleasure, addressing you all, as your President, nay… as the President of the Arabian Dreams Toastmasters Club!

It has truly been my Arabian Dream, to be a Toastmaster and most importantly to serve as your President. I follow in the footsteps of several honourable and renowned Presidents, who have indeed left an indelible stamp on our club through a common mission, which is, to make Arabian Dreams Toastmasters Club, a noteworthy and a dynamic Club and live up to the values and the mission of Toastmasters International.

The new EXCOM, of this year, has just completed the first quarter, of the Toastmaster year 2021 -2022 and are endeavouring to implement a strategy, that will set us apart from other clubs and to make the experience of being an ADTCian, interesting and worthy.

RUTH FERNANDES PRESIDENT, ADTC (2021-2022)

I am proud to announce that we have just won the first accolade of the year… which is the Smedley Award. The Smedley Award is awarded to a club, for adding 5 new members, between the months beginning from August 1st to the 30th of September of every year. We are proud of this achievement and know that this is only a harbinger for more accolades and awards to be won over the year 2021-2022.

Another initiative that the EXCOM considered, is the ADTC Newsletter…..

They say, ‘to be a good speaker, you need to write well and to be a good writer, you need to read well!’ Our newsletter embodies this belief. It also re-iterates the mission of Toastmaster International, which is to provide a platform for us to improve our communication skills as well as our leadership qualities. How else, can we manifest this learning, but through a newsletter?

I therefore, have the greatest pleasure in introducing you to the first newsletter of ADTC, for the year 2021 -2022. A huge round of applause to the immediate past VPPR TM Venzil Fernandes and the Present VPPR Vinisha Menezes for this concerted effort in taking an idea to fruition, all in record time. Several ADTCians have contributed essays on various topics that will indeed be of interest to all of us. Two talented and budding poets have penned their thoughts in beautiful artistic lines. I hope that you will enjoy the articles and respond to us, with suggestions / recommendations for our next Newsletter that will appear, in the month of December 2021.

The Author and writer, Anais Nin, said, “we write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospect”. Every member is welcome to support this endeavour, experiencing a moment in their Toastmaster’s life or outside and then writing about it through a limerick, a poem, an essay, a cartoon, a painting, any medium of interest. Do make this your platform, to voice your opinion, say something that you feel will contribute to making the experience of being an ADTCian, dynamic, multi-dimensional and energetic!

Benjamin Franklin says, “Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing!”

I am sure your professional life and your Toastmaster’s life is filled with experiences that will help others grow and develop themselves, so pen your thoughts and your dreams. This will encourage others to become Toastmasters and perhaps join ADTC, one day!

Help others achieve their Arabian Dream!

And like William Wordsworth said, “Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart!”

Many thanks and best wishes,

WHAT IF THERE IS NO TOMORROW?

What is your immediate thought when you ask this question to yourself?

Moments, situations, experiences force or push people to take decisions which then defines the course of their life’s journey.

This question was one that changed the trajectory of my life..

While Covid-19 has taught us many life lessons, the one that stands out for me is “Live in the Moment”. This is a strong antibiotic for a disease called “Procrastination”. Having said that, if you wake up alive then life is giving you a chance to live. The question, therefore, is, ‘how are you utilizing this chance?

To create meaning in life, you must take this chance, make a choice and change things that fulfill you. When you do what you love then you attract the best things around you.

I chose Toastmasters and made choices to improve my communication and leadership skills.

AVIL PINTO IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

ADTC - 2020-2021

Now, what choices would you make?

WISHING YOU MORE POWER AND SUCCESS

ADTC NEWSLETTER 2020 - 2021

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COLOURED EYES

The kohl in my eyes Doesn’t hide my years Nor the gray in my hair Or the scars my tummy bears Hardly has it lasted more than a day If not the tears, time washes it away Still why don’t I back away

DR. MUNEEBA ALI ASSISTANT DIRECTOR - PQD DIVISION I DISTRICT 105 PAST AREA 21 DIRECTOR 2021-2022

ADTC NEWSLETTER 2020 - 2021

From smearing my eyes black today Beautiful or not, it’s get noticed a lot By someone very dear, which means a lot

PAGE 08

GOLD MEDAL OR GOLDEN MOMENTS? SASHIDHARAN, DTM DIVISION I ADVISOR (2021-2022)

"STOP THIS GUESSING BUSINESS" When my son Advait turned 10 last year, I asked him what he wanted for his birthday.

And instead of answering, he got me into playing a guessing game "Dad!! Guess what I want for my birthday?

Knowing the umpteen gadgets and electronic toys available, I struggled to make any guess. "I hope it’s not those usual toy cars or airplanes," I mumbled, hoping he had grown out of such things.

No dad... "I bet you won't be able to guess but dad please try," he said in a persuasive tone.

I wondered what on earth is he yearning for, "Something to do with Harry Potter or Pokémon,". "I'm not going to give anything if you keep me guessing," I pretended to be assertive.

After a pregnant pause, he chirped. "I want a Land Rover Racing bicycle. All my friends have one and they participate in our school cycle race”.

I told him “You have participated in the cycle races many times before but have never won a single one”.

“No way!” I explained calmly, “The last time when you participated, not only did you lose the race, but you also fell down and hurt yourself!”

After a five-minute debate, I relented, “Done, You will get a new cycle but you should promise that you will win"... He agreed!

On the day of the cycle race, I received a phone call from my wife. "Guess what," she blurted out.

My heart was in my mouth. "Is everything fine," I yelled. "Yes, all is well. Glorious news!

Just called to tell you that our son won a prize today, My son came online. "Dad, guess what?"

Dad, I got first place in the slow cycling race. Actually, I came last because I was the slowest cyclist," he declared triumphantly.

"Congratulations," I exclaimed, unable to contain the joy of my son’s perseverance despite losing many times and getting injured at the previous race.

IT IS NOT THE GOLD MEDAL I REMEMBER, BUT THE GOLDEN MOMENTS HE CREATED.......

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

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Congratulations

NEW TOASTMASTERS ON THE BLOCK MEET NATASHA Who is Natasha?

Born in Bangalore, I call Dubai my adopted home because I've spent more of my life here than in India. I consider myself a cusp between an introvert and an extrovert. Depending on the day, I could be sneakers-on and ready to go exploring or huddled up in my bedroom with a classic to read. I enjoy travelling and learning about different cultures and customs. My favourite city is Florence in Italy, I love walking the cobbled streets exploring the museums and taking in the beautiful sights, the delicious Italian food definitely help my choice.

I have two beautiful daughters who have renewed my love for Disney and Dinosaurs, and more importantly have taught me how to be more patient.

What's her passion?

Baking with my two daughters and music; If there was an award for the best shower singer, I'd probably be nominated....I wouldn't win but at least I'd be nominated !

What drives her every day?

To be the best that I can be. My biggest reason and driving force would have to be my two daughters. I preach to them every day to get out of their comfort zone and do things that will push them. I've learned through experience, that the best way to re-inforce that drive is to show them, so I choose to practise what I preach and keep pushing myself onwards, forwards and upwards.

Why Toastmasters?

It has been on my radar for some time now after a friend suggested it to me. After attending a few sessions as a guest, I realized this platform would give me a chance to practise my communication more effectively and help me with my leadership skills.

MEET AVISHA Who is TM Avisha?

A girl from a small town in Karnataka, India who Ianded in Dubai with a dream of achieving something.

What's Avisha's passion?

I enjoy learning new things which makes me a better person apart from professional aspects, I love to cook and I like making desserts, sweets for my friends and family, in my free time.

What drives Avisha every day?

Every day I try to be the best person that I can be. I always believe in one principle : “Learn from your mistakes”, because I believe that mistakes teach you and will act as guides to achieve future success.

Why Toastmasters?

I am an introvert, a girl with many ideas and good thoughts but have always taken a step back when it comes to execution. I got to know about Toastmasters through my roommate who was actively involved in it. She always motivated, encouraged, and guided me in my difficult times.

I believe toastmaster is a platform where you can improve your communication and leadership skills which will make me a better person !

ADTC NEWSLETTER 2020 - 2021

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Gossip everywhere In our minds Within our souls Among us, it surrounds us

Within family and friends Among colleagues as well With our peers and kin With also neighbors, we do with a grin

We enjoy, unaware That it’s not a truss And without much fuss It drains energy from us

Judging everyone around Works like a spun Keeps our minds shun Always an exercise filled with fun

We find solace In others faults If you connect carefully, all the dots, of your thoughts

If only we sit Alone in silence We will term Gossiping as merely a violence

Those demons are within you So gossip, if you must take out the crust, to help you remove your inner deep rust

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

"GOSSIPING"

MARIA AFTAB

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BUDDHA’S BRAIN AND MINDFULNESS YES, ALL OF US CAN! What is inside Buddha’s Brain? How come he is so calm/cool?

Can I practice mindfulness? Can I also be calm/cool?

Practicing Mindfulness requires simple but effective steps which helps us become satisfied with our daily chores. Let us address mindfulness in three parts.

RAMASWAMY KRISHNAMURTHY

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is simply being aware of what we are, what we are doing and not overly reactive to the things happening around us.

Why do we need to practice mindfulness ?

In our daily lives, we are pre-occupied with our daily routines, socializing, working, managing social media, taking care of family commitments, etc., that we forgot to live out our dreams and our passions, and find happiness. We tend to do carry out activities with no attention to how others may or may not react. Practicing mindfulness activates that part of our brain which is not normally used on daily basis.

How do we start practicing, Mindfulness ?

Practicing any new habits takes your time, effort and requires dedication. Try to start slowly and don’t be ashamed if you skip in between. Be easy on yourself and enjoy the process rather than the actual results. You will reach your goal by practicing regularly.

SIMPLE STEPS OF MINDFULNESS BEFORE YOU GO TO BED, AT NIGHT Dim the lights 1 hour before you sleep Avoid looking at a TV screen, 2 hours before you sleep. (Avoid all electronic devises such as Mobile / Tablet/ Laptop , etc..)

Ten minutes before you sleep, start observing your breathing. Place your palms on your stomach and ensure your stomach rises when you inhale and sinks when you exhale.

Try to close your eyes and observe your thoughts, do not try to stop any thoughts, let them come and go.

If you feel your mind is wandering, try to bring it back.

That’s it, folks and enjoy your time and be mindful

NEW TOASTMASTERS ON THE BLOCK MEET SANDEEP Who is TM Sandeep?

I am Ambition and Driven! I thrive on challenges and constantly set goals for myself, so I have something to strive towards

What's Sandeep's passion?

I am passionate about working in Supply Chain because you get the chance to improve whatever you decide to focus on. You have the great opportunity to learn from really savvy and experienced people. You can really make a huge contribution to your business by reducing costs and designing processes.

What drives TM Sandeep every day?

My Passion drivers me every day and increases my curiosity and helps me achieve on all my deliverables, every day!

Why Toastmasters?

To become a more confident public speaker and a stronger leader in every area of my life!

LEVEL UP: COMPLICATED

CAN YOU SOLVE THIS?

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

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MANAGING PERSONAL FINANCES DURING PANDEMIC CHANDRESH VASA, DTM PAST AREA 31 DIRECTOR The pandemic has indeed, impacted our personal financial planning. Regardless of your income level, you can take steps to improve your financial position.

The pandemic is changing the way people think about money. As a Finance Professional, I have seen the change, with some saying it feels like “a rug was pulled out from beneath them.” Depending on where you are in your financial journey, you might feel the same way.

Despite the uncertainty of how the pandemic will affect your financial planning in the long term, there are steps you can take to build financial security for yourself and your family. The first thing to remember is to avoid panic. I suggest you take a deep breath and then focus on applying the following six strategies as you navigate the financial impact of the pandemic.

Add to your emergency savings. I always insist that people have sufficient emergency savings. Most people don’t. I recommend saving three to six months’ worth of expenses in an emergency fund. Because of the uncertainty caused by the pandemic, I suggest keeping a year’s worth of expenses saved in the fund. If you are unsure how to begin, start by trimming non-essential expenses and dedicate any extra money saved to build your emergency fund.

Reconsider your debt strategy. Carrying debt, especially high-interest credit card debt, is never advisable. With the stock market volatility, interest rates have fallen sharply.

If you have loans, it may be time to refinance at a lower rate.

Refinance your mortgage. Since there is a cut in the interest rates, that’s good news if you have a mortgage.

With interest rates at an all-time low, consider refinancing. Even a 0.5% drop in your rate can save you thousands on your mortgage. It’s also a good opportunity to shorten the term of your loan. If you still have 18 years to pay on your home, refinance to a 15-year mortgage to pay it off faster and save more money.

Give your budget a makeover. This situation is not normal. With great uncertainty as to what’s next for many businesses, ensuring you are able to cover essential expenses should be your top financial priority right now.

Re-evaluate your budget to find new ways to conserve cash. Personally, I have been spending less money on fuel, parking and tolls while working from home. If you are in a similar situation, I suggest using the extra money to create a financial cushion you can rely on in the coming weeks and months as needed.

If possible, invest more. I advise against selling your investments right now. Many people have seen their portfolios increase in value, and the stock market will likely continue to experience volatility. That is, if you can afford to play with stocks. However, consider contributing more to your retirement savings and other investment accounts.

Help when and where you can. Consider ways you can help others if you can afford to. Find out if your community has a food bank and consider donating groceries or personal protective equipment. Support local businesses, restaurants and cafés in order to provide revenue and help keep their doors open.

If it hasn’t already, the economic downturn may have a significant impact on your personal financial planning. It’s not too late to prepare your finances for what’s to come.

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

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CHRONICLES OF A FRONTLINE WARRIOR COVID 19 - CORONA VIRUS The words that shook the world and caused havoc in our day-to-day activities. In the initial stages when cases were detected in China, all of us thought it would not affect, in our part of the world. How can the virus travel miles away and infect us. But alas! We were proved wrong!

Within a few months, it took a turn for the worse and it was declared a Pandemic. Lockdowns were imposed worldwide to curb the spread of this disease.

When most people were confined within their four walls, health care professionals toiled day and night. We the "Frontline Warriors" did not have the privilege of 'Work From Home'. When most people were bored to death by simply staying at home, simply resting on a steel bench became a luxury, for us “Frontline Warriors”!

As an operating room registered nurse, my experience during covid times has been challenging and exciting. The personal protective equipment (PPE) kit along with a face shield mask makes me wonder whether I am an astronaut! Imagine, assisting at Emergency Surgeries wearing a Space suit!! The continuous wearing of the N-95 mask causes bruises to my sensitive face and leads to PPE fatigue. The difficulty in breathing due to multiple masks, profuse sweating and fogging of a mask, dehydration and emotional exhaustion makes my day excruciatingly painful and gives my dear ones, the heebie-jeebies!

VINISHA MENEZES VP PUBLIC RELATIONS (2021-2022)

The final nail was that there was a scarcity of protective equipment which caused increased covid exposure amongst us, 'Heroes without capes'.

However, facing all these problems didn't dither the spirit of my entire team but only made us stronger as a unit.

This is not just my experience but the story of health care workers across the globe.

I dedicate this article to all Frontline Warriors who have worked selflessly, tirelessly, and continue working with a smile to keep us safe, secure, and hope for a better tomorrow.

ADTC QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

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FIND YOUR PATHWAY & DESTINATION!

RUTH FERNANDES PRESIDENT - ADTC

DR MUNEEBA ALI ASST DIV I DIRECTOR - PQD

GLEN FERREIRA TREASURER - ADTC

VINISHA MENEZES VPPR - ADTC

DR. ABDUL SATHAR DIV I DIRECTOR

VENZIL FERNANDES VPM - ADTC, DIV I PR

WITHOUT YOU THIS WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE

Contact: www.arabiandreams.toastmastersclubs.org adtcdubai@gmail.com @adtcdubai adtcdubai_toastmasters Arabian Dreams Toastmasters Club