BLOSSOM# 2023/24#issue 01#CIPM TMC

CLUB NEWSLETTER CIPM TOASTMASTERS CLUB YEAR 2023/24 – ISSUE 01

BLOSSOM NOVEMBER 2023

BLOOMING CHAPTERS! TABLE OF CONTENTS

EPISODE 1. INTRODUCTION 2. MESSEAGES FROM CLUB PRESIDENT AND VICE PRESIDENT – PUBLIC RELATIONS 3. MESSAGES FROM DIRECTORS 4. CLUB EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND TRIBUTE TO CIPM SRI LANKA 5. CLUB INSTALLATION CEREMONY 6. ALL ABOUT THEMED AND JOINT MEETINGS 7. GOOD OLD DAYS… (MEMBER ARTICLE) 8. CONTEST TO CONQUER 9. CROSSWORD CENTRAL – SEASON 03 (MEMBER ARTICLE) 10. TOASTIES’ STATION 11. SPEECH CRAFT PROGRAM 12. CLUB ACHIEVEMENTS 13. MEMBER ACHIEVEMENTS 14. ‘DUO-DIALOGUE’ - INTERVIEW WITH AN EXPERT (MEMBER ARTICLE) 15. THOUGHTS FROM FANTASTIC FRESHERS 16. AN IMAGINARY FRIEND (MEMBER ARTICLE) 17. EXAM – VIRUS FEVER (MEMBER ARTICLE) 18. COME VISIT US!

PAGE NO. 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 - 11 12 - 13 14 - 15 16 17 18 - 19 20 - 21 22 23 24 25

Page 02

WHO ARE WE ?

INTRODUCTION

WHAT IS TOASTMASTERS? Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that builds confidence and competence through public speaking, communication and leadership. Founded in 1924, the organization is headquartered in Englewood, Colorado. For more details, visit our Toastmasters International official website: https://www.toastmasters.org/ TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL MISSION We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.

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

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

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL CORE VALUES Integrity

Service

Respect

Excellence

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL ENVISIONED FUTURE To be the first-choice provider of dynamic, high-value, experiential communication and leadership skills development.

CIPM TOASTMASTERS CLUB CIPM Toastmasters Club is a community club and leads into bringing individuals from a variety of backgrounds with the goal of growing the club along with their personal and professional development, while enhancing member engagement and networking through conducting club educational meetings (including themed meetings), joint educational meetings, speech contests, entertaining outdoor meetings and participating in events hosted by Areas, Divisions, District and beyond. The club was chartered on 19th of May 2009 and Mr. Rohitha Amarapala was the Charter President.

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PRESIDENT’S

MESSAGE

In the journey of Toastmasters, we don't just find our voices; we find ourselves. It's incredible how this community helps us discover the strength within us, the confidence we never knew we had, and the leader we were always meant to be.

The year 2023/24, first-half newsletter marks the beginning of a collective adventure where we celebrated not only our progress in communication and leadership, but also the journey of self-discovery. Each speech, every role, and all the moments we shared in our meetings contributed to shaping who we are becoming.

DINUSHA WITHANAGE

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the entire Club Executive Committee (EXCO) for the outstanding support and collaboration during the first half of the year. Your dedication and teamwork have been instrumental in the smooth functioning of our club. Whether it was planning events, coordinating meetings, or addressing challenges, your collective effort has played a vital role in our achievements so far. Your commitment to the success of CIPM Toastmasters Club has not gone unnoticed, and I am truly thankful for the positive impact each of you has had on our journey. In addition, a special thank you to our VP Public Relations and her dedicated team for turning the vision of our newsletter into a reality.

You and your team's dedication, creativity, have given life to a newsletter that authentically captures the essence of our CIPM Toastmasters Club.

Finally, I want to say a big thank you to all our members. Your hard work and excitement make our club more joyful.

Toastmasters is all about getting better at communication and leading. But it's not just for our meetings, these skills help us in our everyday-lives, making our conversations with friends, family, and colleagues better. “Let’s seize every opportunity that comes our way. Let's not just speak; let's express. Let's not just lead; let's inspire. Together, let's unleash the full extent of our potential”

EDITOR’S

Thank you!

MESSAGE GAYA

RAJAPAKSHA

This marks a joyous and proud moment for us to launch our First Newsletter of 2023–2024. We have been walking through an exciting year full of new experiences, learning, and fun. Blossom’s main goal is to document the moments we have all been through together and share the knowledge and creativity of our CIPM Toastmasters. Moreover, you’ll see the latest news about our club, our precious moments, and our achievements.

On this note, I would like to express my sincere gratitude and best wishes to all of the contributors and well-wishers who have made the Newsletter a success.

I hope you enjoy the Newsletter and love the fascinating content from the CIPM Toastmasters.

Thank you!

Page 04

MESSAGES FROM DIRECTORS. MESSAGES FROM DIRECTORS

DTM MAHINDA

Greetings from District Director (District 82) Dear esteemed members of CIPM TMC, As a proud Sponsor and Mentor of CIPM TMC, it brings me great joy to extend my sincere congratulations on the publication of this exceptional magazine. The strides and accomplishments made

by CIPM TMC within our Toastmasters community are truly commendable, and a significant portion of the credit goes to the exemplary leadership demonstrated by Dinusha. Her collaborative approach has fostered a culture of exceptional teamwork, enabling your team to consistently excel in enriching the lives of Toastmasters through effective communication and leadership.

KARUNAKARA

CIPM Toastmasters Club holds a special place in my heart, not only in my capacity as your district director, but also as a devoted member of this esteemed organization to which the CIPM club is affiliated. The wealth of experience, encouragement, and unwavering support I have received from this organization has proven invaluable in both my professional and personal life.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to every Toastmaster in CIPM Toastmasters Club. Your passion and commitment are the bedrock of our community's strength. Let us stand united in our pursuit of excellence and create a lasting impact that extends far beyond our club meetings. Thank you and congratulations to all!

DTM FAWAS

Well wishes from Division Director (Division C) As the Division Director of Division C, it gives me great pleasure to write to your club newsletter.

CIPM Toastmasters Club is a dynamic community where gifted speakers and leaders come together to share their experiences and motivate others. As a club, CIPM makes sure to support the Division and District in addition to the club which makes CIPM a remarkable club.

While enjoying what the club is currently doing, I hope the CIPM Toastmasters Club has a successful journey and achieves all of its goals.

JAINUDEEN

TM SHANAKA

Message from Area Director (Area C3) It is with great pleasure and a sense of pride that I take this opportunity to reflect on the incredible journey of CIPM Toastmasters Club, a journey that began on 19th May 2009. As the current Area Director, it brings me immense joy to witness the impact and growth that this club has achieved over the past 14 years. CIPM Toastmasters Club has become a beacon for those seeking to enhance their leadership and communication acumen. Through educational meetings, mentoring, contests and events, members have been provided with a unique platform to develop their skills. The impact of efforts of the club is evident in the positive contributions made by members to society.

WIJEWARDHANA

In this remarkable milestone of releasing the first edition of the Newsletter for the year 2023/2024, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each member for their unwavering commitment and hard work. Collective dedication of members and Executive Committee has created an environment where learning, growth, and support flourish, making our club a dynamic and thriving community.

I extend my warmest wishes for continued success and prosperity. Thank you for embodying the values of Toastmasters International and for being a shining example of excellence in leadership and communication.

Page 05

NEW LEADERSHIP CREW MEET OUR EXCO TEAM 2023/24

GRATEFUL FOR YOU… TRIBUTE TO CIPM In 2009, the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management established the CIPM Toastmasters club (then called IPM The installation ceremony is a divine celebration, where the seeds of dedication are sown, and the roots of leadership Toastmasters Club) initiated by Mr. Rohitha Amarapala, Charter firmly take hold. Like a sacred ritual, it marks the beginning of a journey where commitment, inspiration, and President of the club and a past President of CIPM. CIPM guidance intertwine. Members were commended for their educational achievements and various other Toastmasters club grew stronger as years passed and the institute contributions that have made a significant impact on the club. had always been a pillar of strength by assisting in all logistical and administrative requirements whenever needed. We are highly grateful for the recognition provided by the Institute for CIPM Toastmasters Club in their social media pages, promoting our club among students and members. This indeed had resulted in many students and members joining into our Toastmasters family. CIPM plays a major role in the smooth functioning of all the Toastmasters club and related activities.

Thank You CIPM for your continuous support throughout our journey! We look forward to continuing this relationship and strengthening our bond further for years to come!

OUR HEARTIEST CONGRATULATIONS CIPM SRI LANKA! Page 06

NEW LEADERSHIP CREW CLUB INSTALLATION CEREMONY 15th Installation Ceremony of CIPM Toastmasters Club was successfully held on 29th of June 2023 at CIPM HR House.

The new Club Executive Committee of year 2023/2024 was installed by TM Treshan Galappaththi, the Immediate Past Area Director, Area C3, District 82.

The presence of esteemed guests added grandeur to the occasion, with the Chief Guest being Mr. Ken Wijayakumar, President of CIPM Sri Lanka.

Distinguished Toastmaster Mahinda Karunakara, Director of District 82, graced the event as the Guest of Honor. The ceremony was further embellished by the attendance of Distinguished Toastmasters and Officials.

The installation ceremony is a divine celebration, where the seeds of dedication are sown, and the roots of leadership firmly take hold. Like a sacred ritual, it marks the beginning of a journey where commitment, inspiration, and guidance intertwine. Members were commended for their educational achievements and various other contributions that have made a significant impact on the club.

TM Yasasmi Gamage's achievement as the Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year highlights the commitment towards excellence in communication and leadership which is a testament to the hard work and dedication she demonstrated throughout the year.

TM Rajika Perera was the Installation Chair and it was a memorable evening for all the attendees, featuring a variety of activities including the entertainment item performed by TM Kavingi Perera.

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EVERY MEETING IS A THEMED MEETING!

JOINT MEETINGS – with UNION BANK and AITKEN SPENCE

Page 08

CREATIVE CORNER… GOOD OLD DAYS...

A well, filled with pure and clear blue water, surrounded by ‘Kumbuk’ trees, near the paddy field.

Gusty winds are almost everywhere. I am swimming in the lake with my sisters and I hear the birds singing. It is calm and we are simply enjoying the nature and its beauty. We look around and we see soothing green trees and dead brown leaves fallen on the ground. What a beautiful memory. Now this was long time ago. Fast forwarding to my present days. When I am at home, I still close my eyes and imagine that cool breeze which I enjoyed in my beautiful village in the past. My mind travels back to those golden times. When we were small, we had everything that we love. Water, sand, wind and trees.

The journey by train to visit my parents’ hometown was always fascinating. It took more than five hours to get there, but sitting near a window and looking around, passing breathtaking landscapes, it felt like I was going to a dream world. We used to visit our grandparents once a month. Enjoying delicious food cooked by my grandmother was such a sensation. Time flew by and now everything has changed. As we grew old and got busy with our lives, we hardly ever found time to go visit them. Our once-a-month visit narrowed down to once a year.

The last time I visited my grandmother, we had an interesting conversation. She asked me, “My child... Years back, there was no highway, and yet you visited me every month. Now you have highways and every facility. It takes only one hour to reach here. But now you visit me only once a year”. Then I said “Oh grandma, you don’t know how busy we are”. And she replied, “You have machines for everything. Even to cut vegetables. You can buy whatever you want. Super markets are everywhere. You are not doing anything by yourself. With new technology, life is very easy.

But something is still missing my child”. I asked her what that is. She said “Time”. You don’t have time to live your life, to love your life. You are only just breathing my child. You can earn more money. But you cannot earn more time. When I die, don't come to my grave to tell me how much you love me and how much you miss me, because those are the words I want to hear while I’m still alive”.

Tears rolled down my face. I just hugged her. She held my hand and told me.

“Listen my dear, the most important gifts you can give are your love, time and attention. Slow down, take time to smile and enjoy with your loved ones. Life goes by way too fast. So, live your life to the fullest. You don’t know when your last day is. So be happy for this moment. This moment is your life”.

I hugged her again. What a beautiful and valuable lesson that she taught me.

I just opened my eyes and looked around. I could see the beauty of this wonderful world!

Written by,

TM Ayesha Siriwardana Page 09

SPEECH CONTESTS CONTEST TO CONQUER ~ CLUB LEVEL ~

CIPM Toastmasters Club proudly organized Humorous Speech and Speech Evaluation Contests - 2023 to unleash and manifest the power and talents of its dynamic members. The contests were held on 5th of October 2023. We had an amazing Contest Squad to express wit and laughter through their talents.

WINNERS! Humorous Speech Contest First place: DTM Arjuna Jayadarshana Second place: TM Kavingi Perera Third place: TM Yasasmi Gamage Speech Evaluation Contest First place: TM Kavingi Perera Second place: DTM Arjuna Jayadarshana Third place: TM Yasasmi Gamage We are delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to the winners who brought an immense pride to the club.

Also, we are ecstatic to appreciate and extend our heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional roles performed by the Contest Chair, Contest Master and the rest of the contest role players. Your leadership, dedication and organizational skills made the event truly outstanding and memorable. Well done!

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CONTEST TO CONQUER… ~ AREA LEVEL ~

Winners (1st and 2nd places) of club level speech contests of CIPM Toastmasters Club were then qualified to participate in the Area Level Humorous Speech and Speech Evaluation Contests. The contests were held on 20th October 2023.

We are exhilarated and proud to state that both our contestants secured places at the Area contests!

Humorous Speech Contest

RESULTS! Speech Evaluation Contest

First place: DTM Arjuna Jayadarshana Second place: TM Kavingi Perera

Second place: DTM Arjuna Jayadarshana Third place: TM Kavingi Perera

Our heartiest congratulations to both of you!

Arjuna and Kavingi both emerged to participate in the Division level Humorous Speech and Speech Evaluation Contests.

May the echoes of the wit and laughter shared during the contests resonate within our club, and also inspire more members to embrace the power of humor & evaluation throughout their journey!

Written by, TM Sonashi Rathnayake Page 11

WORD HUNT – SEASON 3 CROSSWORD CENTRAL

Hello friends… Welcome back to 3rd crossword season! Words related to Toastmasters are hidden in these white squares shown below, find them all! Don’t worry, these words are easy!

And guess what? Three lucky winners will walk away with an awesome GIFT! Rules & procedures of the game are provided below.

• This is open to the members of CIPM Toastmasters Club only.

• Please email your answers to TM Chathuri at chathuri.abay@yahoo.com and cc both TM Dinusha (dinushashamalee0710@gmail.com) & TM Gaya (rajapakshagaya@yahoo.com) in it.

• Deadline to send the answers – 15th January 2024.

• If we receive correct answers from more than three members, then there will be a draw to select three lucky winners. Draw will take place at a club meeting. Date will be notified later after 15th January 2024.

• If there are club members who are family members, their answers will be accepted as one submission leading to one winning chance. This is to give winning opportunities to other club members as well.

Are you ready….? Good luck and happy word-hunting!

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CROSSWORD CENTRAL… Across 1.

City where the second Toastmasters club was chartered (in 1926).

3.

A World Champion of Public Speaking (clue: last name).

4.

The minimum no. of points required for a club to become ‘Select’ Distinguished.

5.

Home country of Toastmasters International.

7.

What’s common about all three winners of 2023 World Championship of Public Speaking?

9.

This is considered a disqualification factor at Speech Contests.

10.

In 2020, Toastmasters announced strategic alliance with ______?

Down 1.

An interesting meeting role played at club educational meetings.

2.

A special annual event organized by Toastmasters International.

4.

One of the membership awards programmed for clubs.

6.

A foreign language in which Pathways content is available.

8.

A former International President of Toastmasters International (clue: first name).

Created by, TM Chathuri Abayaratna

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MEMBER GALLERY… TOASTIES’ STATION

TM Dinusha Withanage

TM Uthayashankar Pararajasingham

TM Showmijah Sivathasan

TM Kirisanth Senthilnathan

TM Thilini Rajapaksha

TM Maheshi Fernando

DTM Arjuna Jayadarshana

TM Dulith Perera

TM Yasasmi Gamage

TM Ramani Jayawardana

TM Charen Hulangamuwa

TM Malya Wijayasiri

TM Chathuri Abayaratna

TM Thangavadivel Nirusan

TM Kavingi Perera

TM Shanaka Wijewardhana

TM Gaya Rajapaksha

TM Rajika Pereraa

TM Ranjith Karannagoda

TM Rohini Gamage

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TOASTIES’ STATION TM Yamila Amit

TM Suneth Bandara

TM Sonashi Rathnayake

TM Kartheepan Thavarasasingam

TM Ashlani Upeka

TM Ayesha Siriwardana

TM Lalith Kumara

TM Ranuli Wimalarathne

TM Chinthaka Perera

TM Sathudri Rajamuni

TM Ramona Fernando

TM Himsara Kodithuwakku

TM Priyadarshika Wickramasekara

The members of CIPM Toastmasters Club play a prominent role in the success of the club. They bring unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that contribute to the club's growth and development.

More than a Club, we are a Family!

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SPEAK SMART!

SPEECHCRAFT PROGRAM That's fantastic to hear! Speechcraft program of CIPM Toastmasters Club for the year 2023/2024 which was conducted for ChampSoft speechcrafters was a great success!

ChampSoft is an ISO Certified Custom Software Development Company which was established in 2013 in Sri Lanka.

ChampSoft is more than just a software company; they are a platform for the professional development of its employees. A company dedicated to nurturing skills and advancing the career of the talented group of individuals.

CIPM Toastmasters Club was able to put together a speechcraft program with the goal of creating a learning, inspiring, and empowering atmosphere where everyone feels appreciated, confident, and capable of giving their best performance in public.

Conducting 9 sessions from 9th September 2023 to 25th November 2023 was a commendable effort, providing ample time for participants to develop their communication and leadership skills. The presence of 25 talented individuals indicates that there is a high desire among them to get better at public speaking and communication inside the company. Even though it's on a virtual platform, Saturday mornings were filled with interesting speeches by Indians and Sri Lankans, vibrant themes, and thought-provoking educational presentations by veteran Toastmasters in the All the speechcrafters were given 5 specific goals to Toastmasters Fraternity. achieve in order to be eligible for the certificate and assessment. At the end of the program, there were only fifteen individuals remaining who were qualified for the certificate. The grand finale will be held on 1st December at Regent Country Club, Malabe.

The first speechcraft program was a great success with the contribution of our own club members as well as Toastmasters friends from different clubs and other resource personnel. I, TM Thilini Rajapaksha together with TM Kavingi Perera as the Speechcraft coordinators would like to extend our sincere gratitude to each and every one of you.

Most of the speechcrafters are keen to join Toastmaster Fraternity and collaborate with us in the future.

Written by, TM Thilini Rajapaksha Page 16

THE POWERHOUSE! CLUB ACHIEVEMENTS! CIPM Toastmasters Club was crowned with the prestigious "Golden Club Award 2022/23" for the third year in a row at Ovation (Year-end District 82 conference), which was held in May 2023. Massive congratulations to all the incredible members of our club and our dedicated executive committee of 2023/23.

This remarkable achievement is a testament of our members’ unwavering commitment, passion, and hard work.

CIPM Toastmasters Club was awarded with “Excellence in Training” at the Club Officer Training Program – term 01 for the year 2023/2024.

This award is presented to clubs that have trained all seven club officers at the Club Officer Training Program.

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ACHIEVERS SQUAD!

MEMBER ACHIEVEMENTS! By leaving an outstanding mark in the history of CIPM Toastmasters Club Speech Contests, TM Yasasmi Gamage emerged as a Finalist at District Level Humorous Speech Contest - 2022. The contest took place in May 2023 at Ovation – Year-end District 82 Conference.

She made us all proud through her achievement, which ensures the representation of our CIPM Toastmasters Club in District 82 contest. Cheers to TM Yasasmi!

Completing every role in our club's educational meetings, you've set the bar high and proven your dedication and versatility. Your commitment to growth and excellence inspires us all!

Congratulations, TM Maheshi Fernando, DTM Arjuna Jayadarshana & TM Dinusha Withanage on this remarkable achievement!

Raising a toast to DTM Arjuna Jayadarshana & Team "White Walkers" for their remarkable win as 1st Runners Up in the Quiz Competition - Corporate Edition organized by District 82.

Congratulations on your well-deserved success! Here's to even greater triumphs in the journey ahead!"

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MEMBER ACHIEVEMENTS! Our very own TM Shanaka Wijewardhana who is the Club Immediate Past President, was appointed as the Director of Area C3, District82. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to his dedication and leadership skills. Congratulations TM Shanaka! Wishing you all the best in this new role.

Our very own TM Maheshi Fernando, a former President of our club and Area Director in 2021/22, ws appointed as the Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) Chair of Division C, District82 for the year 2023/24.

This is an incredible achievement that truly reflects Maheshi's dedication and exceptional leadership skills. Join us in congratulating TM Maheshi on this remarkable accomplishment!

We wish her all the best in her new role.

Outstanding Toastmaster 2022-2023 Congratulations to TM Yasasmi Gamage on achieving the prestigious award of Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year 2022/23. This award reflects the person whose educational accomplishments, club service, dedication and enthusiasm are exceptionally well. The Outstanding Toastmaster should also be consisted of the completion of levels (of Pathways), activities inside and outside of the club, service, mentoring, sponsorship and good attendance.

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‘Duo-Dialogue’ – an interview with DTM Dilrukshi Rajapakse Former member of CIPM Toastmasters Club President’s Distinguished Division Director 2018/19 and Hall of Fame – Star Division Director Current member of Pinnacle Advanced Toastmasters Club MHRM (Uni.Kel), PGDHRA (Uni.Col), NDHRM (CIPM) Former Head of HR with Corporate working experience in leading conglomerates, NGOs and Grant projects.

1. What do you do these days?

These days I’m involved in many activities related to Toastmasters and professional work. Fully involved in content development for professional programs and actively involved in speechcraft programs, which allow helping others to be developed.

2. When did you join Toastmasters?

I joined in 2009 and that was the year which the CIPM Toastmasters Club was chartered. I think I visited somewhere around March or April and suddenly I was informed that the club will be chartered. I had no clue about it at that time. All that I could remember was that we had to fill out charter forms and the 1st Vice President of Toastmasters International, DTM Pat Johnson, was invited to the charter ceremony as the Chief Guest. When the process was getting delayed, I can remember getting scolded by DTM Sudash Liyanage. I was new and had no idea about the Executive Committee roles, but the member who was performing the duties as the Secretary at that time offered me to take up the Secretary’s role. I was under the impression that she would be there to support, but to my surprise, she went missing from that day onwards. I had to somehow learn everything and started maintaining charter forms. A few weeks before the Charter Ceremony, all 21 members got together to organize the event. I remember I was so nervous to deliver the Vote of Thanks, but the TM fraternity was so supportive that they would help you, in every step of the way.

3. How did you get to know about Toastmasters?

I was scared to face crowds and also to go in front and speak. There was a training program on “Introduction to Public Speaking” organized by the Chamber of Commerce. Since I was interested in getting to know about public speaking, I attended this session. After the session, I checked with the resource person as to how I could join and he mentioned that I should join a club. At that time, the only club I knew was a pub and I thought I would never be able to join Toastmasters, since I didn’t consume alcohol. After a few months, to my surprise, I saw a paper article that CIPM was going to form a Toastmasters Club. Even though I didn’t know anyone at CIPM at that time, I just visited CIPM and the rest is history.

4. Let’s talk about your journey in Toastmasters…

The journey is very interesting however, the 1st year was challenging as I was so nervous about the roundrobin session. What I did was I avoided the round-robin session for about a year.

Page 20

Then eventually went missing for a few months. However, the bounce back happened as I wanted to develop myself & realized that TM is a platform that could support me to conquer my fears. I was able to take all opportunities that came into my path and was able to become a President’s Distinguished Club President, Area Director, and Division Director. Happy to grab the title of becoming the 1st Charter Member to become an Area Director, Division Director, a Distinguished Toastmaster, to win a Triple Crown award. Also, to be the 1st Female Division Director of Division E.

5. How does Toastmasters help an HR Professional?

Toastmasters helped me in my professional career as an HR professional. The leadership and communication skills became a platform for me to shift careers and to adapt to many organizational changes. The quote that says "all communicators are not leaders, but all leaders are communicators" became a reality in my life.

Communication skills are crucial in professional settings, whether you're presenting to colleagues, clients, or superiors & learned it from Toastmasters. Practical experience in planning and organizing meetings, motivating team members, and facilitating discussions were applied to professional life. Learning to receive and implement constructive feedback is a valuable skill that can positively impact your professional growth.

6. What areas did you do differently in your organization by using the skills you gained in Toastmasters?

Toastmasters transformed me into a confident communicator and effective leader through structured and supportive environments. I improved my public speaking skills, communication, and organizational abilities. Continuous improvement and collaboration within teams was an area that worked for me.

Handled impromptu situations and lead effectively. Fostering adaptability and flexibility in communication was another area where I was able to do things differently. These elements facilitated in navigating diverse professional situations and handling unexpected challenges.

7. What is one reason that you are still in Toastmasters?

I'm still a Toastmaster, because I always wanted to challenge myself. However, there are several other reasons as well. Continuous self-development & gaining new skills, helping others to improve, application of continuous improvements are other areas that kept me going thus far.

8. What is the message that you would love to give to the audience?

Investing in yourself is key to personal and professional growth. Stay curious, embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, and commit to acquiring new skills and knowledge. Remember, your growth benefits both yourself and those around you. So, commit to being a lifelong learner, and watch your personal fulfillment and professional success.

Written by,

TM Yasasmi Gamage Page 21

BLOOM BEGINNINGS! THOUGHTS FROM FANTASTIC FRESHERS! TM Ranuli Wimalarathne While mainly concentrating on badminton and my academics, is actually when I discovered that there is something called the ‘Toastmasters Club’ - where people get to learn, develop & evaluate each other on their speaking, listening and presenting abilities. While I was home, awaiting my Advanced Level results, I got to know about CIPM Toastmasters Club, where I was warmly welcomed and they encouraged me to become ‘a better version of me’. CIPM Toastmasters indeed is a family away from home where you can always rely on, and they keep guiding you towards learning and exploring new heights. While being an undergraduate, I love dedicating time every twice a month to attend club meetings which are filled with love, laughter and tasty food!!! I am eagerly waiting to experience more and more learning opportunities in my Toastmasters journey.

TM Himsara Kodithuwakku From the very first visit to CIPM Toastmasters Club and until now, I have always had a very warm welcome from every club member. From reluctantly taking up a table topic at the first meeting to taking up a membership and being inducted as a new member to the club, the guidance and constant follow up given was commendable. Being a school leaver, just after my Advanced Level Examinations, the exposure to the club was indeed an eye-opening incident. Meeting various personalities form diverse backgrounds & companies and to witness the in-house talent they have got in their members, motivated me to attend meetings and take up role plays in every meeting possible.

TM Kartheepan Thavarasasingam CIPM Toastmasters Club has always been a very energetic, enthusiastic and homely place. There are so many things to learn in a Toastmasters educational meeting. It has really helped me improve my critical thinking, decision making, public speaking and presentation skills. Being a part of Toastmasters has also helped me advance in my career life. CIPM Toastmasters Club has a fun environment where it is surrounded by nice, friendly, smart and professional people.

TM Chinthaka Perera It is an amazing experience I am going through with a new set of associates who have come from different fields with various age groups, collecting new set of words to my vocabulary without the professional jargons and experiencing the guidance of mentors after a long time, and opportunities to meet new friends through our joint meetings. It’s wonderful and I am enjoying it everyday. Thank you for offering me the membership of the CIPM Toastmasters Club.

TM Lalith Kumara Public speaking has been one of my main drawbacks, which also adds a barrier in progressing and reaching my career goals. Upon being a speech crafter, I wanted to explore the art of public speaking and enhance my leadership skills further, and that is when I was guided to this lovely club, CIPM Toastmasters Club, where I met diverse personalities and learnt so many things while exploring my unseen potential.

WELCOME TO OUR TOASTMASTERS FAMILY! Page 22

CREATIVE CORNER…

AN IMAGINARY FRIEND.

One Poya day early morning with darkness and coldness in and around the year 1975, my mother was making her way to the Buddhist Building from home passing Maradana, Punchi Borella and Borella to observe sil. By the side of the Punchi Borella bodhi tree she saw a lady beautifully clad, holding a fragrant flower tray.

She glanced at that lady and noticed for the first time that she was extremely beautiful.

By using her gestures, she asked my mother to come under her umbrella. They slowly walked on in silence towards Borella junction and while walking my mother slowly enjoyed the feeling of seeing the beauty of this lady. She was tall slim and had a golden colored skin. Then both of them went inside the Buddhist building where my mother was observing sil. My mother wanted to speak with her. However, other than observing her beauty my mother had not uttered a word with this lady who had a beautiful delicate pale face with long dark hair.

Then, she smiled mysteriously and disappeared through a dark doorway. My mother sat on the floor and she felt sleepy and fallen fast asleep until she was awakened by another lady who had come to observe sil. My mother could not imagine how she went in through the locked dark doors of the Buddhist Hall. No sooner had my mother arrived home, she then realized that she might have got up early at about 3 am in the morning without noticing the time clearly and while passing the junctions from Maradana to Borella she was looked after by a ghost.

Have you ever seen a ghost? What do you think? Was she a ghost or just my mother’s imagination? This question is in my mind like a rubber ball in the water, sometimes goes down and sometimes it rises up. It’s fascinating to see how our human mind does wonders!

Written by, TM Ramani Jayawardana Page 23

CREATIVE CORNER… EXAM – VIRUS FEVER

This fever is very infectious; Notice how Mothers with grade five kids, From Mother to Mother it spreads, (None exams Mums build immunity systems!)

Symptoms Forget husband, other Kids and home, “Hush, talk in whispers” Mother warns.

TV and phone calls are taboo, Salt less meals, burnt food on the menu.

Feverish talks of changing tutors Several Religious places visited, (No matter what religion,) “Please God; see that my son gets to Royal College.

Last year the boy next door went.”

Constant frictions Mother and Son, Comparing fretting and upbraids him.

Simple cure When these viral fevers abate?

When Minister terminates “reputed” schools entry!

Poem written by, TM Rohini Gamage

Page 24

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