Symphony of Unity - Virtusa CMB Toastmasters Club Newsletter

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Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters

together we thrive

what’s inside…

THE JOURNEY BEGINS IN TOASTMASTERS

~ TM SHIRMILA JAYAMANNE

AN OPEN SECRET

~ TM TASHIKA FERNANDOPULLE

LOVE IS IN THE AIR A SWEET TOASTMASTERS GATHERING A TOASTMASTER'S JOURNEY TO GROWTH

~ TM AAMIR SALIE

...and more!

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Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters

Club no.: 02541805 | Area 3 | Division G | District 82

We meet on alternate Sundays and Thursdays each month from 10 AM or 2 PM via Zoom/MS Teams or at Virtusa Auditorium (maps.app.goo.gl/7EZGf7MdMozqfjjt9).

THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT

TM Shashini Wijesinghe | shashiniw@virtusa.com

VP EDUCATION

TM Asinshani Muthunayake | amuthunayake@virtusa.com

VP MEMBERSHIP

TM Aamir Salie | asalie@virtusa.com

VP PUBLIC RELATIONS

TM Aqeel Aarif | aqaarif@virtusa.com

SECRETARY

TM Sajini Lankadari | slankadari@virtusa.com

TREASURER

TM Ruvinda Madapatha | rmadapatha@virtusa.com

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS

TM Fasmina Musammil | pmusammil@virtusa.com

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

TM Nadeeka Chathurani | nadeekac89@gmail.com

www.toastmasters.org

WHAT IS

TOASTMASTERS?

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that builds confidence and teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs that meet online and in person. In a supportive community or corporate environment, members prepare and deliver speeches, respond to impromptu questions, and give and receive constructive feedback. Founded in 1924, the organization is headquartered in Englewood, Colorado with approximately 270,000 members in more than 14,200 clubs in 148 countries.

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL MISSION

We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.

DISTRICT MISSION

We build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence.

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL ENVISIONED FUTURE

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL CORE VALUES

To be the first-choice provider of dynamic, highvalue, experiential communication, and leadership skills development.

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.

Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters, founded in 2010, is a dynamic corporate club in Sri Lanka, guided by our Club Mentors, DTM Noorul Munawwara and DTM Srianthie Salgado. We welcome anyone who wants to improve their communication skills and leadership abilities in order to reach their full potential.

06

Message from the Club President

07

08

10

The Executive Committee 2023/34 Club Achievements

09

Message from the Area Director

11

Virtusa Colombo Club Contest

International Speech & Table Topics

Division G, Area G3 Contest

International Speech & Table Topics

Love is in the Air

Area G3 Joint Meeting

12th Club Officer Installation Ceremony Member Achievements . .

TM Shashini Wijesinghe .

The Journey Begins in Toastmasters

TM Thilini Agalawatta 13

TM Shirmila Jayamanne

An Open Secret

TM Tashika Fernandopulle

A Toastmaster's Journey to Growth

TM Aamir Salie

EDITOR MESSAGE FROM THE

Introducing the “Symphony of Unity," Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters’ Newsletter for the Year 2023/24 (Term 2).

This edition represents the club's collaboration, shared purpose, and collective achievement within our club. Much like an orchestra, where each instrument plays a unique role, our club members work harmoniously towards common goals.

We extend gratitude to our contributors, the Club President, the Executive Committee, and the diligent subcommittee for their unwavering support. A special shout-out to our club members, whose pivotal role in PR activities has been instrumental.

As you delve into the pages of the “Symphony of Unity,” consider it an invitation—to align yourself with growth, positivity, and the power of feedback and mentoring. This newsletter embodies our club’s commitment to continuous improvement, celebrating the transformative journey of each member.

Let this edition resonate as a symphony of collaboration within Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters—a testament to unity and shared accomplishment.

Enjoy the read!

Toastmaster Aqeel Aarif

Vice President Public Relations 2023/24

CLUB PRESIDENT MESSAGE FROM THE

Greetings as the 12th President!

Addressing you fills me with immense joy. Our Toastmasters community is a powerhouse of dedicated individuals, each fueled by genuine enthusiasm and a commitment to mutual growth.

Representing Division G, our members shine in various capacities, even during challenging times. Let’s pledge to overcome obstacles and achieve excellence together. Unity is our compass on this journey toward greatness.

Gratitude flows to my Exco team for their unwavering support. Our shared responsibility is to elevate standards, nurturing a positive environment for personal and professional growth. I wholeheartedly believe in the symphony of unity—a harmonious blend of collaboration and encouragement.

My main goal is to cultivate an atmosphere where positivity thrives, providing every member with opportunities to learn and evolve. With our dedicated team, we aim to guide you to new heights. Special thanks to all those who contributed to make this newsletter a success.

Enjoy the content, and may this reading experience enrich your Toastmasters journey.

Club President 2023/24

Toastmaster Shashini Wijesinghe

AREA DIRECTOR MESSAGE FROM THE

As we step into the next chapter of growth and development within our esteemed club, I want to extend my heartfelt best wishes to each and every one of you.

Toastmasters is a journey of self-discovery and continuous improvement. With your dedication and enthusiasm, I am confident that Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters will soar to new heights. May each speech, evaluation, and meeting serve as a steppingstone toward your personal and professional goals.

I'm inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm each member brings to create a thriving community. Your support for one another builds an environment that nurtures confidence and achievement.

As your Area Director, I take a moment to acknowledge the hard work and passion that each of you contributes. It warms my heart to witness members actively supporting and encouraging one another, creating an environment that promotes growth and confidence.

Thank you for making Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters a vibrant and successful community. Here’s to more achievements and milestones on your Toastmasters journey!

Toastmaster Thilini Agalawatta

Area Director–Area G3 - 2023/24

THE

EXECUTIVE MEET

COMMITTEE 23/24

PRESIDENT

TM Shashini Wijesinghe

VP EDUCATION

TM Asinshani Muthunayake

VP MEMBERSHIP

TM Aamir Salie

VP PUBLIC RELATIONS

TM Aqeel Aarif

SECRETARY

TM Sajini Lankadari

TREASURER

TM Ruvinda Madapatha

SERGEANT-AT-ARMS

TM Fasmina Musammil

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

TM Nadeeka Chathurani

OUR 12th CLUB OFFICER INSTALLATION CEREMONY 23/24

The Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters held an awesome Installation Ceremony themed “Symphony of Unity” on August 19, 2023. The event took place at the Virtusa Auditorium. It was a celebration of unity, leadership, and growth.

The ceremony began with distinguished guests, including Sampath Thirimavithana, Head of HR for Virtusa Sri Lanka, and influential figures like DTM Niroshan Nadarajah, Club Growth Director D82; DTM Dushyanthi Adikari, Division Director of Division G; DTM Srianthie Salgado; and DTM Noorul Munawara, gracing the occasion.

TM Farweez Imamudeen delivered a captivating keynote address, inspiring attendees with valuable insights and motivation, setting a tone of collaboration and growth.

Smooth transitions of leadership were observed during the ceremony, with TM Chethana Darshanamali, Immediate Past Area Director of Area G3, leading the induction of new members, and TM Thilini Agalawatta, Area Director of Area G3, overseeing the installation of club officers.

Entertaining performances by TM Aamir and TM Dinesha added an extra layer of enlightenment and engagement to the event, showcasing the talent and passion within the club.

The ceremony concluded by recognizing outstanding achievements by both the club and its members in the previous year. Honoring TM Dinesha Perera as the "Creative Toastmaster of the Year" and TM Shashini Wijesinghe as the "Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year" for 2022/23 underscored the club’s commitment of excellence and recognition of outstanding contributions.

WHAT WE ACHIEVE

CLUB ACHIEVEMENTS

10 DCP Points: President’s Distinguished Status

Smedley Award

100% Pathway Adoption

Eighty-80 membership Award – Term 1

Excellence in Training – Term1

Champion Flyer of the Month (July 2023) & Top Flyer of the Month (October 2023)

Our remarkable Toastmasters have achieved a total of 15 Educational Awards! Toastmasters Nadeeka, Aamir, and Chethana have completed their respective Pathways in Innovative Planning, Presentation Mastery, and Effective Coaching, demonstrating dedication and growth.

Toastmasters Chethana and Aamir stand tall with 3 Triple Crown awards each. Notably the rest have completed 9 Ice Breakers—a testament to their commitment to continuous improvement. These achievements reflect the spirit of learning, unity, and personal development within our club

ACHIEVEMENTS

AREA CONTEST CHAMPS

TOASTMASTER

Anupama Dissanayake

Third Place–Humorous Speech & Evaluation Area Contest 2023/24

TOASTMASTER

Nadeeka Chathurani

Third Place–International Speech Area Contest 2023/24

LEADERSHIP ENROLLMENTS

TOASTMASTER

Anupama Dissanayake

TLI Coordinator

Division G Council 2023/24

TOASTMASTER

Sharika Gamhewa

Asst. PR Manger

Division G Council 2023/24 - Term 1

TOASTMASTER

Aamir Salie

Third Place–Table Topics Area Contest 2023/24

DISTIGUISHED TOASTMASTERS AWARD

TOASTMASTER

Chethana Darshanamali

Distinguished Toastmasters Award 2023/24

Wait…

THERE’S MORE!

Toastmasters Watasha, Aamir, Meyola, Dinesha, Leshani, Sanoos, Tharindu, Shirmila, and Fasmina have completed their Ice Breakers and begun their Pathways journey—a testament to their commitment to continuous improvement.

Not all superheroes wear capes. Some complete all of their meeting roles.

Toastmasters Pavan, Shashini, and Aamir proved their commitment by setting a good example and ticking all the boxes to reach this milestone!

INTERNATIONAL SPEECH &

TABLE TOPICS CONTEST

On March 2, 2024, the Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters hosted an exhilarating event the International Speech and Table Topics Contests at the Virtusa Auditorium. The energy was palpable as our talented members took the stage.

Toastmaster Roshini (Contest Chair) and Toastmaster Thilan (Contest Master) orchestrated the event flawlessly.

Our role players, including Timers Toastmaster Inoka & Toastmaster Ruvinda, deserve an applause for their well-executed roles. Special mention to the SAAs and the Tally Counters, Toastmaster Sajini & Distinguished Toastmaster Hingston for their fantastic multi-role playing.

Toastmasters Nadeeka, Aamir, and Pavan clinched the top three spots in the International Speech contest. Their powerful speeches resonated with the audience, leaving a lasting impact.

From personal stories to motivational messages, each speaker showcased their unique style and passion.

Toastmasters Aamir, Nadeeka, and Malinda reached first, second, and third places, respectfully. They demonstrated quick thinking and eloquence in the impromptu speaking round. Their ability to tackle unexpected topics with grace and wit was commendable.

As we celebrate these achievements, let’s remember that every speech, every evaluation, and every moment shared contributes to our collective growth.

Kudos to all who made this contest memorable!

INTERNATIONAL SPEECH WINNERS

ROLE PLAYERS

TABLE TOPICS WINNERS

THE JOURNEY BEGINS IN

TOASTMASTERS

By Toastmaster Shirmila Jayamanne

Are you looking for a fun and enriching way to improve your public speaking skills, while building your confidence and leadership abilities?

If so, I highly recommend joining Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters. Trust me, Toastmasters is not just your average public speaking club. It's a warm and nurturing space where you can practice your speaking skills, receive constructive feedback, and learn from others' experiences.

“Hi Shirmila, are you interested in joining Toastmasters?”

This message transformed my perspective on public speaking anxiety. Being an introvert for my entire life, I've always felt uncertain about addressing a gathering.

But luckily, joining Toastmasters changed my mind from being unable to address a gathering to being able to address a gathering with more confidence.

Through Toastmasters, I had the opportunity to participate in regular meetings where I could take on different roles and activities. This would eventually help me develop and improve my public speaking skills and leadership abilities and boost my self-confidence.

Virtusa Colombo

Toastmasters is a place where you will gain more than just skills. It's also the sense of community you'll form with other people who share your desire for growth and development. You'll be amazed at how the connections you make at Toastmasters can benefit you in every aspect of your life.

So, if you're ready to take your communication and leadership skills to the next level, take your time. Join the Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters today and experience the incredible benefits for yourself!

District 82’s Division G

hosts a thrilling Area G3 Contest

On March 16, 2024, the vibrant energy at the Virtusa Auditorium was intense as Division G hosted an exhilarating Area Contest. The stage belonged to our talented members from Readers Toastmasters, Fortude Toastmasters, and Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters.

Guiding the proceedings was our eversmiling Contest Chair, Toastmaster Taniya. Alongside her, DTM Dilini and TM Chamodi provided tremendous support as Contest Masters, executing their roles with finesse and deserving applause. Let’s not forget our role players, who gave their fullest support to drive this contest seamlessly.

Representing Virtusa Colombo, TM Nadeeka and TM Aamir secured second runner-up awards in the International Speech (IS) and Table Topics (TT) Contests, respectively. Their powerful speeches resonated uniquely with the audience, leaving an enduring impact.

Further accolades go to TM Hafsa, TM Tina, TM Udara, and DTM Hingston, all from Readers TMC, who clinched first and second places in the respective IS and TT Contests. Their eloquence and captivating delivery captured the audience’s attention with grace.

As we celebrate these achievements, let’s recognize that every speech, evaluation, and shared moment contributes to our collective growth.

Hats off to everyone who made this contest an unforgettable experience!

ALL CONTEST WINNERS

ROLE PLAYERS

TM NADEEKA

TM AAMIR

ISC WINNERS

TT WINNERS

TohaveFUNandMAKE MEMORIES,

wemadesuretoCAPTUREeverykeymoment

EDUCATIONAL ARTICLE FROM FRIENDS IN TOASTMASTERS

AN OPEN SECRET

By Toastmaster Tashika

Fernandopulle

(Saturday Circle Toastmasters Club)

Picture yourself standing on a cliff, the wind tousling your hair, looking down at an endless precipice. It’s a scene that could belong to a horror story or a mystery novel. I can assure you, it is both: a horrendous experience interwoven with mystery and seeped in absolute delight. Quite the mysterious experience, filled with conflicting emotions, is enough to ignite fear, excitement, and wonder, especially in the face of an audience where no one is familiar yet encouraging.

Now, you might wonder where this is leading and if I vocalize “Toastmasters,” you’ll likely raise an eyebrow, thinking I jest. Yet, where else would you find a group of people willing to support and nurture your language, communication, and leadership skills? Here, mistakes are encouraged, and nervousness transforms into child’s play within the safety of a supportive environment.

In all aspects of one’s life, effective communication is vital in every facet of life, especially in the workplace. Whether

motivating colleagues, sharing information, collaborating with peers, or impressing potential employers, the ability to articulate your viewpoint persuasively opens doors to countless opportunities.

While Toastmasters enriches our lives, it’s our careers that gain the biggest boost. Self-esteem, self-confidence, and assertiveness are emotions that come out strongly in becoming better leaders in the workplace. I can personally vouch for how Toastmasters has benefited my career by improving skill sets that are demanded by employers. Communication tops the list. Toastmasters offers endless opportunities to refine this crucial skill, essential for career growth. Leadership skills naturally follow suit, and thinking on one’s feet becomes second nature.

In the workplace, the ability to speak confidently and spontaneously reaps abundant rewards. This eloquence is exemplified in job interviews, where questions that one wasn’t prepared for would be effectively tackled and answered, leaving interviewers impressed sealing the deal for your next employment.

Beyond communication and leadership, Toastmasters targets listening, critical thinking, giving feedback, time management, planning, implementation, organization, delegation, motivation, mentoring, and team building—skills directly correlated with the workplace. Imagine each item as a new skill on your resume, encapsulated with the selfconfidence that Toastmasters builds along the way, positively impacting your day-today life.

If you’ve ever wondered how Toastmasters benefits your career and why, the answer is an open secret: the skills learned through Toastmasters not only enhances your professional life but also contributes to leading a wholesome existence.

As a professional, Toastmasters has been the most beneficial part of my selfimprovement journey. Whether acing job interviews, conducting efficient meetings, or delivering compelling presentations, the learnings from Toastmasters have propelled my skills toward constant and consistent improvement, making me the best version of myself.

L VE is in the Air!

Chocolateandlaughter-wayoutthrough

asweetToastmastersgathering

On February 17th, Toastmasters Clubs from Virtusa Colombo, Readers, Fortude, and Batticaloa came together as one for the Area G3 joint meeting, which was held at Fortude Pvt Ltd. The theme, “Love is in the Air,” perfectly suited the Valentine’s season. This sets the tone for an inspiring gathering that seamlessly merged online and physical participation.

TM Harini Samarasinghe (Fortude) led the day with love. The highlight was TM Farweez Imamudeen’s keynote speech on C3 Storytelling a captivating exploration of Character, Conflict, and Cure.

His words resonated with everyone, emphasizing that every great story revolves around relatable characters facing challenges and ultimately finding resolution.

The meeting also included engaging speeches and whimsical Table Topics related to Cupid’s arrow. A delightful guessing game added sweetness to the event. Winners walked away with chunky chocs, leaving hearts warmed by friendship and unity.

Love, laughter, and storytelling tangled, creating magic in the room. As Toastmasters, we know that love isn’t just an emotion; it’s the fuel propelling us toward growth and excellence.

EmbracingDiscomfort

A TOASTMASTER'S JOURNEY TO GROWTH

By Toastmaster Aamir Salie

Have you ever experienced that peculiar mix of fear and excitement that arises when you challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone? It's a sensation that tugs you forward while simultaneously pushing you back, leaving you with sweaty palms, a dry throat, and a fluttering stomach. For me, this sensation is what I've always sought after.

From navigating the chaotic streets of Colombo on a bicycle to tackling public speaking, I've always been drawn to situations that make me uncomfortable. Two years ago, I made a conscious decision to enhance my communication skills to propel my career forward. Little did I know that this decision would lead me to the doors of Toastmasters.

Initially, I hesitated to fully engage in physical Toastmasters meetings, preferring the safety of online platforms. However, it wasn't until I participated in a club speech contest that I realized the importance of facing a live audience. The experience left me speechless, as I stumbled through my presentation, grappling with stage fright.

Reflecting on my journey, I vividly recall my first encounter with Toastmasters. As a timid guest at an open house meeting, I found myself thrust into a round robin session, feeling utterly lost. Yet, it was this initial discomfort that paved the way for growth.

My Toastmasters journey has been a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs. From fumbling through my ice breaker speech to facing a daunting audience in the "Managing a Difficult Audience" project, each hurdle has been an opportunity for learning and self-discovery.

Despite the many setbacks and moments of self-doubt, the support of my fellow Toastmasters has been unwavering. Whether it was the encouragement of the ExCo or the unity of club members, their guidance has been instrumental in my progress.

One invaluable lesson I've learned is the power of reframing discomfort. Rather than succumbing to fear, I've learned to view those sweaty palms and racing hearts as signs of excitement and anticipation. It's a shift in perspective that has empowered me to push through my limitations.

As I complete my first Toastmasters pathway, I'm filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. What began as a quest to improve my public speaking skills has evolved into a journey of personal growth and transformation I may have initially shied away from leadership roles; I now recognize the invaluable lessons they offer in communication and teamwork.

In conclusion, my Toastmasters journey has been a testament to the power of embracing discomfort. What started as a leap into the unknown has blossomed into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

As I stand, having completed my first pathway, I'm reminded that growth lies just beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones. And for that, I am eternally grateful to the Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters and its members for their unwavering support and encouragement!

“Paws and Pals”

afungatheringwith UoC Toastmasters

Our recent joint meeting with the University of Colombo (UoC) Toastmasters on March 24, 2024, was nothing short of delightful. Themed “Paws and Pals,” it became a haven for pet enthusiasts to unite and celebrate their furry companions. TM Malinda, our seasoned Toastmaster, gracefully led the meeting as the Toastmaster of the Day.

The meeting was filled with captivating moments, including three prepared speeches that left us inspired. Topics ranged from heartwarming pet stories to profound reflections on the human-animal bond. Our table topics session sparked lively discussions, showcasing quick thinking and creativity.

A highlight of the day was witnessing TM Chethana achieve her Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) status a testament to dedication and perseverance. We also celebrated TM Aamir’s Triple Crown Award for completing three Pathways levels, embodying the Toastmasters spirit.

Overall, it was a paws-itively and purr-fect occasion filled with laughter, learning, and friendship.

As we look forward to future collaborations, we are reminded of the enriching experiences awaiting us on our Toastmasters journey.

WHAT’S NEXT, WHAT’S BUZZING

07 20

Division Conference

Awurudu-themed Meeting (physical)

Educational Meeting (online)

New Member Orientation (NMO)

If you are wondering what's cooking at Virtusa Colombo Toastmasters, look no further! 01 19 21 01 08

Educational Meeting (online + physical)

29

Annual General Meeting

Educational Meeting (online)

Anniversary Meeting (physical)