THE VOX YOUNG ADULT TOASTMASTERS CLUB NEWSLETTER AREA 2, DIVISION C, DISTRICT 20, REGION 11
AS LIFE GOES ON...... ISSUE 33 - TERM 2021-2022 - RELEASE: 31ST JANUARY 2022
FROM THE EDITOR Someone once said, “Magic is Something You Make.” and many of you reading this will instantly think of a magical moment you had that made you or someone else agree with the statement or perhaps otherwise. I had a general idea of what I wanted to present to the members of YAT and our readers, and it was a bunch of bullet points of the different sections I wanted to include in the newsletter and to be completely honest with you, I was not confident that it would be great since the previous PR officers made it anything but easy. Coming from a non-designing background with all the experiences that I had in Toastmasters and public relations, I always felt that I would not be able to make it – Creating and designing a newsletter is a great challenge. Today, as I look over the work that I have created, and I am honestly proud and very happy with the result. Sometimes, the picture may not seem great at the start, and you may lose your confidence in between but once you believe in yourself and finish what you started, take a step back to see what you created, and you would feel it! – The Magic of Creation. Presenting my first newsletter with sincere thanks and gratitude to all the contributors and editors. Happy reading! ~
Maram Alaradi
TM MARAM ALARADI VP PUBLIC RELATIONS 2021-2022
A BRIEF INSIGHT.... WHAT IS TOASTMASTER?
ABOUT PATHWAYS!
It is a world leading program in communication and leadership development. It has a membership base of 357,000+ with 16,000+ clubs worldwide. Bahrain alone has over 60+ clubs. The program is innovative, giving leadership experience and qualities through actual practical implementation through given roles in each meeting. Effective communication skills is gained through progressive speech projects, impromtu topics and helpful, constructive evaluations from fellow members. Our club takes the program to a whole new level, by involving the best of what youth can offer. We are innovative and creative and determined to give our best.
Pathways learning experience is an evolved version of the educational program dedicated to improve your skills to ensure you level up personally and professionally. The program caters to your needs through providing 11 paths highlighting more than 300 competencies developed around 5 core competencies .
If you want to be a better speaker and leader, for both your career and personal life, come join our meetings as a guest and see the difference. Our club meets every 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 7:30 pm. RSVP to our VPM, if you are interested to join us!~
DYNAMIC LEADERSHIP
EFFECTIVE COACHING
PERSUASIVE INFLUENCE
ENGAGING HUMOR
MASTERY PRESENTATION
The program is interactive and available online so that you can carry it with you anytime, anywhere while you can access it with a click of your finger! It also gives you real-world, transferable skills available in 9 languages with select paths available in Korean and Tamil.
INNOVATIVE PLANNING
STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIP
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
TEAM COLLABORATIONS
MOTIVATIONAL STRATEGIES
VISIONARY COMMUNICATION
PAGE 1
TOASTMASTERS LEVELS To Young Adult Toastmasters
Member (You)
To Area 2
Club (A group of members)
To Division C
Area (A group of clubs) To District 20
Division (A group of areas)
To Region 11
District (A group of divisions)
To TMI
Region (A group of districts) PAGE 2
Toastmasters International (A group of regions)
PRESIDENTIAL
ADDRESS
D
earest Members, fellow Toastmasters and guest readers.
For many, if not all of us, 2022 was to be an exciting new chapter in in our lives. The world was starting to get back up towards the end of 2021, after a knockout punch from the pandemic in 2020. At YAT, we had even resumed our physical meetings, eager to meet each other and welcome new guests in person instead of in the “Zoom café”, as our VPE TM Sara calls it. Life however doesn’t always dance to our desires, even if it is the whole world wishing for the same thing. We have had to once again exercise caution in our personal, professional and Toastmasters lives because of the hike in infection rates. Yet, even with the record numbers, it is my belief that there is no need to give in to the same gloom that clouded most of 2020 and 2021. We have after all become resilient over these past two years; learning to live with the virus like it was some unpleasant neighbor. If you’re looking for a reason to be optimistic, look to your loved ones. Even if you can’t freely meet in person, there is nothing holding you back from connecting with your family and friends to both give and receive support and encouragement. Dr Ralph C Smedley, the founder of Toastmasters International, once said, “We work together to bring out the best in each of us,” and this becomes even more important during these tough times when a simple call or text can bring forth a smile on a worried face
or ease a troubled mind. The bonds with your family have strengthened because of the extra time together, and so have those with friends, whether with new online ones or even those that have remained close to you even if you don’t get to meet them in person often. Since the pandemic, selfdevelopment has risen to global popularity, whether it be getting more fit, dabbling in a new hobby, or learning to be more confident.
PAGE 3
PRESIDENTIAL
ADDRESS
I myself am engaged in a few personal projects – learning to make two of the dishes that I enjoy (biryani and banana bread) and training my dog Loki to be civil with the Talabat delivery drivers. It may seem like a cliché by now, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t true – if you have to stay at home more often to stay safe, there are lot of interesting, fun and productive ways to pass the time. You don’t even have to do it alone, you can do it with the most supportive, inspirational, and FUN group of people that I know. There is an open invitation from YAT to meet at the ‘Zoom café’ every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month, and I guarantee that our meetings are sure to brighten up your day, whether you are new to Toastmasters, a member of another club or already a part of the YAT family. Fellow Toastmasters and guest readers, as a parting message: 2022 is not yet a highway to speed on, Brakes were hit because of Omicron, No need to pull over; just drive with caution, 2022 can still lead to an exciting destination. A happy, healthy and safe 2022 to you and your loved ones, from myself and the executive committee of Young Adult Toastmasters!
Rod Kevin Ybardolaza
TM Rod Kevin Ybardolaza CLUB PRESIDENT 2021-2022
PAGE 4
AREA 2 DIRECTOR
ADDRESS
Whenever, I visit Young Adult Toastmasters club, I expect and know that I will return energized and full of verve. What, you may wonder is the reason? Is it, that as a club it endeavors to keep its membership restricted to young adults, but then it is also the oldest club in Area 2. Or is it, that it is a club that most Gaveliers would gravitate to upon reaching eighteen, but then many of its members have never been associated
with
public
speaking
before
joining them. Or is it, that it is mostly
Also, it is precisely these three
comprised of budding young members on
major qualities that ensures that
their path to leadership, but then it also has
Young
members
avoids becoming a storm in a
who
have
sponsored
other
Adults and
Toastmasters
Toastmasters clubs and have and continue
teacup
ends
up
as
a
to be active as District leaders.
kaleidoscope that prodigies feel both challenged and at home.
You got it; Young Adults Toastmasters is a wonderful attributes.
bundle But
these
of only
contradicting add
to
its
It is precisely why attending a Young Adult Toastmasters event
immense dynamism, that is held together
(yes,
each
meeting
of
Young
with a sense of camaraderie, loyalty, and
Adults Toastmasters is an event),
acceptance to and of each other.
while making me personally
PAGE 5
AREA 2 DIRECTOR
ADDRESS
nostalgic about what could have been, energizes me into action to focus on what could be. Salute!!! As Director of Area 2, I am impressed by the way the Young Adult Toastmasters, always focus on their
members’
happiness
and
individual
growth. This word of mouth and their creative social media management has already enabled this club, in these challenging times to not only add five members (I am confident more will come) and achieve five of the ten Distinguished Club Performance goals to date. I am fully confident that they will by the end of this term not only meet but as usual exceed expectation. Further this year, Young Adult Toastmaster will celebrate their eleventh year in March. So, before I conclude, let me take this opportunity to wish the elves and pixies of this wonderful club an early happy birthday. May you always remain young.
G. Farooq Quadir
TM G. FAROOQ QUADIR AREA 2 DIRECTOR 2021-2022
PAGE 6
IN THIS ISSUE..... THE JOURNEY OF GAVELLING TM SARAH EBRAHIM PAGE 10 ROAD TO BE THE
YOUNGEST GENERAL MANAGER TM ANAS ABDULLA PAGE 14
MY TRIP TO AZERBAIJAN TM FARHANA KUTTY PAGE 20
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT
PAGE 24
MEME PAGE + FUN & LEARN
PAGE 43+44
EXCOM FIRST TIMERS
PAGE 45
PAGE 7
MEMBERS
PAGE 8
S' QUOTES "I am grateful for what I have yesterday and I am grateful for what I have today." TM Akbar Khan
PAGE 9
THE JOURNEY BY TM SARAH EBRAHIM
The usual symptoms of a Glossophobic (Fear of Public Speaking) person. Believe it or not, I too was a victim of this fear once and had let it completely curb me at some point in my life. Enter the antidote to this fear – Gavel Clubs. Two words for the Gavelmaster Journey – extraordinary and incredible!
S
weaty palms. Wobbly Knees. Choked Throat. Frozen Feet. Anxiety and Panic Attack. Flash Cards Crumpled and Forgotten. Chills Running Down the Spine. Wide-Eyed and Stupefied.
PAGE 10
Day 1 – Awkward Personality. Observant Eyes. Shy Smile. All that I can remember from the time I entered the Gavel Club premises. Bubbling Gavelmasters, preparing for the day’s session made me feel anxious and I wanted to run out of there. Sat down in the most isolated corner of the room, taking deep breaths and hoping I am not called upon to speak. I was merely an 11 year old girl with a few words to spare for small talk or even massively long talks. Day 2190 – Charismatic Personality. Still Observant. Confident Smile. Standing on the podium and welcoming the new excom as the
OF GAVELLING President of the Gavel Club. Newer faces with the same anguish, excitement, terrified expression of what was to come in their journey ahead. All of them looking up to me, with expectation, hope and awe. I was merely an 18 year old girl with a great collection of thoughts, opinions and expressions by then. 7 years! Take me down a memory lane as I want to recall every project I attempted, every table topic I commented on, every evaluation I did, every session I took up the role player position and every time I went up to the podium as the VP Membership, VP Education and last but not the least as the President. The bonds I created in that journey, is something that I won’t ever forget. I not just developed on my communication and leadership skills but also other skills like organization, planning, brainstorming, etc.
Looking back, I see a great redemption arc for me and an even greater phase of my life’s story. Even as I spoke for the very last time, I remember doing something completely out of the blue – Walking down the stage and into the audience and just merely talking instead of giving a monologue for the very first time. I remember at that very moment, I wanted to absorb everything and everybody present in that room who has catered to my success as a public speaker. I remember wanting to leave a lasting impression on all my club members and oh yes, I was successful in doing so as attested by the club’s counsellor and senior most members of the club. Alas, moments from that time is just a blast from the past, nothing more and nothing less. Memories left behind but not forgotten nevertheless!
An experience unforgettable and something I will continue to manifest for!
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MEMBERS
PAGE 12
S' QUOTES "Kindness is a language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see." TM Sara Taher
PAGE 13
ROAD TO BE THE
YOUNGEST GEN
BY TM ANAS ABDULLA
non-stop diversity of a never ending cultural exposure that never stopped to change and evolve in the depth of the never sleeping city of Qalali. All of that shaped a unique personality that I'm grateful to have today and that played a crucial role in my professional life and definitely kept my confidence tank full most of the time.
T
o start with, I want to reveal my humble and sincerest gratitude to Allah almighty for the life he gave me, as the
wholesome experiences that I got to indulge myself in. Whether it's my childhood in Belfast Ireland, the transition phase I had in the midst of the old culture of Muharraq or the
PAGE 14
My professional voyage commenced when my big brother got me in a Sales Executive job at a bank, that's where my professional self sparked and my brain started to act more creatively in how I didn't want just to be any salesman that sells credit cards and loans in Ahli United Bank, I just had to do it differently. I was telling stories, learning different lifestyles and customizing my talks in accordance to whom I was talking with. At some point, some of my colleagues were calling me the confident chameleon, as I always managed to keep my essence enacted but still flexible enough to tune into different frequencies. After that, things got more exciting but also challenging as I moved to another bank KFH, performing the same duties but in a different environment that added more to my knowledge in my professional path as I endlessly met people day in and day out and seeing myself more enriched with the way I deal with people from all different walks of life. My path then took a different turn, more like a
ERAL MANAGER sharp turn where I got work for an official government entity, that's where I started to experience a different pace of work. Time was dealt in a different way, different language and lingo were used, different attitudes and mindsets, it was intriguing and interesting to see how time ticked slower and things looked more focused and clearer. That's where I developed a new type of appreciation for life and my surroundings and my educational path started picking up as I finished college with a high GPA (3.89/4 GP) and invested more on myself with knowledge and education that added more to the set of skills that I already have. After seeing myself reaching a certain educational level, being surrounded by the people I love and seeing myself at a position that not a lot managed to get at my age. I couldn't help but question myself if this is where I'm going to settle, and that's where the spark hit again and I got my dopamine rush radically escalating taking my thoughts to my mental frontier and moving to the next adventure where I knew I was just going to excel, so I reached out to my confidence tank again and got moving, looking for new opportunities and learning continuously to see where will my next stop be, until I came across a job that all I can describe as is a God sent. It was an opening at YK Al Moayyed that was looking for an Admin Executive with a banking background. I smiled and I knew that this would be the next adventure, knowing
confidently position.
that
I'll
get
the
I show up to the interview, all ready and prepped, I was received by the GM back then, a respectful, intelligent and generous man, he asked me, where do you find yourself in the future, and I looked him straight in the eye, calm and collected, as I formed the sentence and said the following with full articulation while reaching out to my usual
PAGE 15
ROAD TO BE THE
YOUNGEST GEN
BY TM ANAS ABDULLA
confidence tank: "Sir, I'll be sitting in the same chair, looking at a fresh interviewee from across the table and I'll be asking him the same question you asked me". The GM couldn't help himself but to smile and even laugh with a tone of admiration. That's when I knew my professional journey was going to the moon from here, where I see myself with a motivation and determination nurtured and developed through an articulate clear vision. Ready to develop a tangible reality that once was a mere thought swimming in my head, ready to do what is unthinkable by others, ready to become the next GM. Thus, a new version of myself was born and set to embark on the continuation of my marathon. I was ready to accept the fact that I will fail many times till I reach my mastery, that I was walking to break the power of shame that would hold so many humans back from ever trying or attempting to attain their desired goals. When you can embrace failure as proof of action, you will become a more confident man. And there it was that chair, that throne, waiting for me to cross over all the obstacles to
PAGE 16
ERAL MANAGER
embrace it and appreciate its worth where it knows not anyone was meant for it. I worked my way through, learning different trades and aspects of the YK Al Moayyed world, from marketing, accounting, technology, mechanical knowledge, psychology, the sociology of the customers, the market, the competition, the markets outside of Bahrain, the automotive industry, traveling the world to learn and observe as much as I can to the point that I learnt new ways to learn and see the world from different angles. Years passes by, and my stance grew stronger and became more acknowledged and noticed by the members of the YK Al Moayyed, as I kept on evolving the way I think, work and deal with work, I get to see myself escalating to my heights and responsibility to the point, that appointing me as the GM was the logical thing and the right move by the management, making me the youngest GM in the history of YK Al Moayyed and possibly in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and with this, I would like end it the same way I started the article,
I would like to reveal my sincerest gratitude to Allah almighty for giving me this life that I continue to serve in. PAGE 17
MEMBERS
PAGE 18
S' QUOTES "If you think changing the world is overwhelming, a great place to start is by changing your own self - start small." TM Rod Kevin Ybardolaza
PAGE 19
MY TRIP TO A BY TM FARHANA KUTTY
M
y favorite activities are traveling and discovering new cities, people, and cultures. I am crazy when it comes to food; savoring the taste of different cuisines has become a part of my daily life. I want to take you all down a memory lane of my last international trip before the covid pandemic, which was to Azerbaijan. This trip is one of my most cherished memories.
During my trip to Azerbaijan, I got to experience my first snowfall. I was thrilled and over the moon with the thought of playing in the snow and building a snowman. I know it may sound cliché but trust me it was one of my happiest days during that trip. We did all those typical touristy stuff like skiing, winter markets, and cable cars, etc.; everything was wonderful, the perfect winter holiday. My body was sore since I kept falling a million times while trying to ski. But you know what? It was all worth it! The bruises I got reminded me of all those beautiful memories and hilarious falls I had. The Azerbaijani cuisine was exquisite and simply delicious. We tried most of the traditional dishes. One of my most favorite dishes that I would love to eat again would be the Dolmas; vegetables stuffed with minced meat cooked in local herbs and spices. PAGE 20
AZERBAIJAN To me, it was one of the highlights of the trip. Not to forget the local people were very friendly and helpful. One instance that I would like to mention is when we needed directions to a specific restaurant since we were lost, and we had to ask one of the locals. Unfortunately, he didn’t speak English; he could have simply ignored us, instead, he gave us directions using actions. This was a very simple yet sweet gesture that was memorable. The trip to Azerbaijan was the best winter vacation and I would trade anything to go back in time and relive those moments with my people. Last but not least, I realized that the actual reason why I had one of the most amazing experiences was because of the people with whom I traveled. It is them who made the trip unforgettable. Without them, how would I have built a snowman or had the most childish snow fight with? Whenever I think about the trip; in all those memories, it's them who are common and made it special. With the right company, you can turn anything into a wonderful memory. Ending this with hopes that I get to create more memories with my people on future trips.
PAGE 21
MEMBERS
PAGE 22
S' QUOTES "You don't have to be funny to be MC, as long as you are eloquent!" Nada Qamber, DTM
PAGE 23
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - How did you hear about Toastmasters? From the LinkedIn. - What made you join? The atmosphere. - Why YAT? They are helpful and friendly and the meetings are funny and organized. - What are your goals for your Toastmasters’ journey? To learn public speaking. - Describe yourself! Shy!
TM
AMMAR ALWAZZAN
- Lastly, is there anything else you would like to say to the YATers or anyone reading this? No.
PAGE 24
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - How did you hear about Toastmasters? Being an active member of the Public Speaking circuit, it had always been a dream to join Toastmasters after the age of 18. I have always been an aspiring orator and mentor in the field of Public Speaking and Toastmasters is definitely the way to go about. - What made you join? Passion and skill, predominantly worked in my favor and pushed me to take the decision to join the organization. I once again wanted to be a part of a group where my expressions could be resonated, and my thoughts ideated. The dream of achieving the highest position in this journey – DTM was sparked again and that was enough to throttle me full-force into joining the club.
TM
SARAH EBRAHIM PAGE 25
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - Why YAT? Honestly, I have been hearing about YAT when I was part of Gavel Clubs. I had heard about amazing, themed sessions and the infamous Halloween sessions. During the Gavel journey, we never had theme specific sessions and this had me intrigued about YAT. Also, the most inviting aspect of YAT was the age group they catered to. I felt that I would be able to talk my heart out in that age set rather than in front of adults with a different mind-set.
TM
SARAH EBRAHIM PAGE 26
- What are your goals for your Toastmasters’ journey? At the start of the journey, I had this one mega goal of becoming the DTM someday.
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT But over the past couple of months, that goal changed. Moving forwards, I vow to enjoy and savor every moment I spend with my YAT family and the Toastmasters Family and cherish every milestone I achieve in this circuit. I reckon that will stay longer than achieving the title which will be a momentary bubble of happiness. Yet another goal of mine would be to create everlasting bonds of friendship with my YAT family and to take it forward even if I am not part of the club in the future. - Describe yourself! "Ink stained pages are just mere reflections of my thoughts, my emotions and my expressions and nothing more - 'A Window To My Soul' in this reality." ~ Sarah Ebrahim A reader who has lived more than a thousand lives and a writer who has given birth to
TM
SARAH EBRAHIM PAGE 27
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT
TM
SARAH EBRAHIM PAGE 28
more than a thousand lives, both of them 'Food to Her Soul'. With a mysterious brooding personality, no one really knows what to expect. Public Speaking has always been her trump card since a very long time, thanks to her well-ideated thoughts and opinions, who has made her who she is today - bold and fearless. A striving Muslimah is how she identifies herself in this world, always working to become the perfect Muslim and strengthening her spiritual self, every day. All in all, she is 'Many Horcruxes in One Soul' who looks at every passing day with a brewing upbeat spirit and doesn't stop at just anything.
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - Lastly, is there anything else you would like to say to the YATers
or
anyone
reading
this? Every day comes with a new opportunity. Don’t let it pass by. Capture it, hold onto it and Live it. This very important aspect to life I learnt from my dear YAT family. At the end of the day, Toastmasters is not just about public speaking or leadership. You learn tons of things from different people, make amazing friendships,
ideate
your
thoughts and expressions into a different dimension and what not!
TM
SARAH EBRAHIM PAGE 29
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - How did you hear about Toastmasters? Najla Hameed invited me to come as a guest for a meeting and I wasn’t interested. But, she kept asking again and again and again until I finally agreed to come to the meeting, and to be honest I was happy that I did. - What made you join? I never imagined that I would ever join Toastmasters, but after attending the meeting online and seeing the amazing people who were nothing like I imagined them to would be, I decided to become a YATer. - Why YAT?
TM
ANAS ABDULLA PAGE 30
I don’t think there is any toastmaster club that has the same vibes and cool people as YAT has. Such white hearted people that provide a fun, supportive, non-
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT judgmental environment to all. In fact, YAT should stand for (You Are Treasured). - What are your goals for your Toastmasters’ journey? Learning and selfdevelopment, having a good time, and one day becoming one of the best spokesmen in the world. - Describe yourself! Confident, successful, smart, quick thinker, analyst, ambitious, competitive, social, like to try new things, handsome, athletic, funny with an unusual sense of humor. - Lastly, is there anything else you would like to say to the YATers or anyone reading this? To my dear YATers keep rocking, and to the nonYATers what are you waiting for JOIN US.
TM
ANAS ABDULLA PAGE 31
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - How did you hear about Toastmasters? From My younger Akbar Alam Khan.
brother
- What made you join? To build my confident level, communication skills and build relationships with new people. - Why YAT? YAT is a wonderful platform which helps to learn and grow to develop the personality as well as communication skills. YAT helps to interact with different people, builds the relationship and shares people’s experiences. YAT mentors support new YATers in all ways.
TM
AFZAL KHAN PAGE 32
- What are your goals for your Toastmasters’ journey? My goal is to polish my
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT communication skills and build my confidence. - Describe yourself! I’m reliable—I am so consistent in updating my technical knowledge to be in good position and keep myself up to date. I’m very cheerful— focusing on my work, family and friends, so I smile often and crack jokes whenever the time is right. and I’m energetic— I do all kind of pressure work with smile without taking any tension. I never left any pending work. Finally, I am very passionate about my work. I’ve been in the field for over 10 years, and I plan on sticking with it for as long as I can. - Lastly, is there anything else you would like to say to the YATers or anyone reading this? Be positive, help yourself and help others. Give respect and take respect.
TM
AFZAL KHAN PAGE 33
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - How did you Toastmasters?
hear
about
My sister-in-law told me about toastmasters after she saw one of her friend's Instagram stories about the club and suggested I check it out. - What made you join? It took me multiple meetings before I decided to become a member. The more meetings I attended, the more I realized it was a lot of fun and the members were wonderful. I realized this was a great place to improve my public speaking skills and meet new people. - Why YAT?
TM
FARHANA KUTTY PAGE 34
At YAT, the members are truly one of a kind. They made me feel like I belonged there and was part of the club regardless of being a guest. I believe that it's the members who contribute to making the club so unique and wonderful.
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - What are your goals Toastmasters’ journey?
for
your
Through Toastmasters, I hope to improve my public speaking skills, expand my professional network, and enhance my leadership skills. Additionally, I also hope that this experience helps me with my personal development.
- Describe yourself! My name is Farhana, and I am a 21-yearold student who loves traveling and exploring food. I am, for the most part, an introverted person, but I can be crazy and intolerable when I am with my closest friends. - Lastly, is there anything else you would like to say to the YATers or anyone reading this? I would like to encourage everyone reading this to take a moment to compliment themselves. It may sound silly to compliment yourself, some may even call you narcissistic and selfobsessed. But I feel we must acknowledge our efforts and hard work. It is a simple way of being expressing gratitude to yourself. Why should you wait for someone else to compliment your efforts or even your outfit when you can simply gift to yourself?
TM
FARHANA KUTTY PAGE 35
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - How did you hear about Toastmasters? A chance encounter! I spent my Thursday evening doing the most cathartic thing a bachelor guy in the middle east would do, Yep you guessed right, ‘CLEAN MY ROOM’ while a random YouTube playlist of trashy music played in the background on my phone, when suddenly the musical notes stopped & all I started hearing were claps & cheers while some man uttered the words “I see something in you, I don’t know what it is” my curiosity peaked, I grabbed my phone & the rest as they say is History!
TM
SEAN D'COSTA PAGE 36
- What made you join? Honestly the first time I walked into a meeting as a guest at one of the clubs in KSA, I was fashionably late,
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT now all I see is a bunch of middle aged people staring at one man in the center who gave an inspirational speech about his addiction to alcohol, how he fought and turned his life around, and I was like wow an “ALCHOLICS ANNOYMOUS” club in KSA? at the end of the speech the whole audience gave him a rousing applause and I thought to myself “ Wait till they hear my story” - Why YAT? Law of attraction I guess, as the clichéd saying goes “Your vibe attracts your tribe”, Adulthood is where you look at both sides of the road before crossing it then get hit by an airplane. I think I identify as a Young adult where I’m still trying to navigate through life’s many flights and crashes
TM
SEAN D'COSTA PAGE 37
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT while trying to stay sane, keeping a smile and trying to make sense while doing it. - What are your goals for your Toastmasters’ journey? Zero, I think when I put a yardstick or set a goal I fail miserably. I believe in arching your bow, shooting your arrow and whatever you hit, make it your bull’s eye, the rest of you inspired and goal driven individuals go to TED talk & I’ll cheer for you, never ! - Describe yourself!
TM
SEAN D'COSTA PAGE 38
“Jack of all trades, Master of some” my favorite hobby is getting more hobbies. I’m a woke introvert, pro procrastinator, fun loving & I got your back kinda guy, well I also believe in zodiacs, astrology & any
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT other kinds of mystic stuff that you would try to sell me under the pretext ‘it’s not superstition it’s science’ & I would buy it cause I’m also gullible. Love superhero, end of the world& dystopian future kinda movies. Always game for a plan and a laugh! Was a DJ in my past life, also on the side I am a lyricist, rapper, a dead writer/poet & an aspiring comic (‘Oh so you do standup? Ok so tell me a joke,’ -please don’t be that person, I shall then curse you with the seven plagues from hell).
TM
SEAN D'COSTA PAGE 39
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - Lastly, is there anything else you would like to say to the YATers or anyone reading this?
TM
SEAN D'COSTA PAGE 40
I believe life is an amusement park with a variety of rides, some thrilling, some scary, some laid back, some; where you literally need to take a leap of faith, so gather as many friends as you go around the park, gather as many hobbies, harbor no hate, experience everything you possibly could before it’s time for the park to shut down. Remember the ticket always reads “ADMIT ONLY ONE” so it’s your responsibility to make the experience worthwhile.
NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - How did you hear about Toastmasters? I’ve been involved with toastmasters since I joined the YLP (Youth Leadership Program) in 2014 and that’s when I learnt about Toastmaster’s International. - What made you join? There are some things about Toastmaster’s International that I just can’t resist. The biggest factors that attracted me were the thrill of public speaking, the potential for self-improvement and the chance to meet – and learn from – amazing new people. - Why YAT? I love the friendly and welcoming atmosphere YAT has, along with helpful members, competent speakers, and tons of learning opportunities!
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NEW MEMBERS HIGHLIGHT - What are your goals for your Toastmasters’ journey? I’ve got a simple goal – I just want to push my social and public speaking skills to new heights and become the best version of myself. - Describe yourself! I’m a big fan of selfimprovement and public speaking. I love gaming and technology as well as fashion and fitness. I love talking to people and making friends. I’m also a big enjoyer of food! If you ever want to find me in a meeting, I’ll probably be wearing a coat and I’ll most likely be in the refreshments section ;)
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- Lastly, is there anything else you would like to say to the YATers or anyone reading this?
YAT'S MEME PAGE Grammarian: Please use formal language during the meeting
You: Hey Guys!
When the grammarian tries to decipher the random usage of the word of the day that you just said.
A blink lasts for 1/3 of a second but PR still manages to get these photos......
When you try to take good photos of members for future posters:
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FUN & LEARN SECTION Submit your answers to young.adults.tm@gmail.com before 16.02.2022 First correct YAT member submission will win a membership pin
ACROSS 2. An Azerbaijani cuisine 4. Nickname of Sarah Ebrahim 6. Number of members who finished a pathways level this term 8. Name of our immediate past president 10. Our Club's acronym 11. Our meeting venue 13. Nickname of Najla Hameed 15. Anas Abdulla's first professional job
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DOWN 1. Name of toastmasters international founder 2. Highest educational level in toastmasters 3. This newsletter edition 5. The other khan brother 7. A platform where Ammar knew YAT 9. Severely ruined - SAA Article 12. Number of goals Sean D'Costa has 14. Latest new member who joined the club
EXCOM FIRST TIMERS HOW IS IT SO FAR?
Two years after joining the beloved Young Adult Toastmasters Club, I had decided it was time to join the executive committee. I had the desire to join the team that keeps the club engine running and guarantees a smooth flow of club meetings. I decided to take the perfect introductory role in the excom, the role of Sergeant at Arms. The responsibilities were clear enough from my experience in previous meetings, jump start the meeting with a few reminders and manage all club belongings. Of course, upon taking the role I had to dig deeper into the SAA responsibilities and other tasks came into light. What also drew me into the role was that it is a highly organizational one, and one of the traits I like to attribute to myself is being organized.
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To my luck, we had been conducting our meetings online since the pandemic had blighted our routine, and that gave me a diluted set of responsibilities since many of them were not applicable. The club inventory remained largely untouched, except for the distribution of ribbons, there was no need to prepare a physical room for our meetings, and the zoom meeting room was very short of demand. It was a nice mellow start to the role, but it would definitely be a shame if I never got to have the full SAA experience. Thankfully, this did not remain for long as we had decided at one point to try out hybrid meetings. This was of course a delight as a bunch of us got to experience the beauty of meeting each other face to face as we did before the pandemic, but it also presented a challenge to me in the SAA role.
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EXCOM FIRST TIMERS HOW IS IT SO FAR?
It was about time for my responsibilities to be taken to the next level. I would actually argue that doing hybrid meetings is even more challenging than just regular in-person meetings. This is because I had to make sure whatever is going on inperson was relayed to whoever attended online, and vice versa. This was definitely no easy task, and there were sure to be a few mishaps here and there. However, with the help of my fellow excom members, these challenges were quickly overcome, and we ended up having smooth hybrid meetings and I felt on top of things when it came to my responsibilities.
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Without a doubt there is still much more that can be enhanced, and the learning journey does not end. One of the main things I have to work on is trying to spice up the usual meeting introduction, as the SAA is the first person to perform in any meeting and has the ability to ramp up the excitement for what is about to come. Even though we are now back to virtual meetings, and approaching the end of the term, I am still very much enjoying the journey, and I feel confident enough in taking up the role should any future SAA calls in sick hahaha!
EXCOM FIRST TIMERS HOW IS IT SO FAR?
A Toastmasters meeting is often a warm and welcoming space for all and especially for the guests. I still remember attending my first meeting as a guest. I joined YAT in 2020 during the pandemic and I recall attending the meeting virtually. The warmth was palpable, and it made me feel at home immediately. If I were to ever describe my first meeting with YAT club then awe is the word I’d use. I was a guest that day and it was unlike any experience. I saw a bunch of young and determined people come together to become and make each other better communicators and leaders. The energy, the laughter, and the warmth was all just too contagious. It was an overwhelming experience but something I definitely TM BEENA M.C wanted to be a part of. YAT just welcomed me with open arms. That’s what I felt like when I first became a member. I remember I couldn’t process the amazement at ease in my transition from a guest to a Toastmaster. Here there never will be a teacher and you will always see everyone learning from one another. Everyone is a teacher and everyone a student. Right after joining the club, I spent the several months solely taking up various roles. Despite repeated reminders from my mentor, VPE, President, I couldn’t start writing my ice breaker for a long time. I was quite hesitant to do the speech as the fear of making mistakes took over my confidence, so writing my ice breaker remained elusive. I continued taking up various roles for the club and also had done several for the Area contest levels as well. It was only another couple meetings later that the VP Ed cajoled me to do the role of an MC and that was when things changed. I did a decent job but what pushed my confidence was to see how everyone was supportive of me.
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EXCOM FIRST TIMERS HOW IS IT SO FAR?
That was the meeting when everyone from the club congratulated me for a job well done. My confidence skyrocketed. Did things change overnight post that? Nope. I was still skeptical about taking other roles. I am part of the excom now. But it did give my confidence a massive boost. Why? Because of the supportive and encouraging environment of YAT. I knew that I could make mistakes and not be reprimanded for them but taught how to rectify them. It’s been a year and a half, and I have made some amazing friends and met some super awesome speakers. Toastmasters has changed a lot in me. It has taught me things I never thought it would. It taught me how to ask for and implement constructive criticism but most of all this was my first lesson in understanding what creative satisfaction is and how hard you have to work to attain it. YAT is the BEST. Believe me, I am saying this from experience.
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The friends that I have made here have pushed me to become better on all fronts. I got lots of encouragement to push myself. They have made me a better student. Everyone at YAT is genuinely concerned about your growth and betterment and in most cases will often go out of their way to help you.
EXCOM FIRST TIMERS HOW IS IT SO FAR?
YAT is an amazing set of people. They are energetic, driven, passionate, supportive, and most importantly lifelong learners. The diversity in each club ensures that you meet different people from different walks of life, the only common thread – passion to become better. These friendships have often transcended beyond the club. They have translated into impromptu lunches, movies, coffee meet ups etc. They have become close friends and I know that every time I need guidance whether it is related to Toastmasters or not, they are just a call away. Just like most people, I also came to YAT only to become a better public speaker. I never anticipated that I would end up with friends for life or mentors who will guide me all along or that Toastmasters will put me back in the habit of writing!!! I believe that learning is multidimensional. Whatever we learn reflects in every aspect of our life. As a toastmaster, I learnt not just how to speak or lead but how to make my dayto-day life better. I feel more confident now as I speak to my fellow toastmasters, co-workers, boss, or anyone I meet for the first time. Being a toastmaster made me experience that — “The only limits that we have are the limits that we set on ourselves”.
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EXCOM FIRST TIMERS HOW IS IT SO FAR?
Ever since I have joined Young Adults Toastmasters Club it has been a fun ride, be attending meeting or taking up any roles. There has always fun learning attached to whatever I had to do with the club, nearly two and a half years passed being an active member, I knew it was time for me to run the show along with the other exuberant executive committee. Thanks for whoever nominated my name for the position of the Treasurer of the club, it has been quite a responsibility. Being a treasurer of the club, I was responsible of budget planning for the club, also making sure of the club membership fee collections, and enrolling them in Toastmasters International. Although it sounds like an easy job, what it has taught me is to be organized and
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punctual on updating financial reports, keeping the executive committee aware of our current budget for taking any decisions with regards to conducting any activity or reducing membership fees as they say grace in disguise, this pandemic has been good to all our members for the membership fees was reduced meanwhile we also were fortunate enough to have hybrid meetings along the way when it was safe and right to conduct them. Our aim, I along with executive committee would be to retain happy members by engaging them in meeting roles and motivating them to complete their pathways projects at their own pace and interest, also focusing on scouting new and potential soldiers to carry out Young Adults Toastmasters’ legacy, to facilitate
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EXCOM FIRST TIMERS HOW IS IT SO FAR?
that considering the present pandemic situation we have decided to maintain the fees reduction until we resume physical meetings, meaning if the situation allows trying to conduct hybrid meetings to those who want the feel of a physical meetings. All this comes with the challenge of keeping the club in a good standing financially, while conducting hybrid meetings. So, until I handover my responsibility to the next Treasurer, my goal would be to balance the financial status and keep the fun ride going. It is always fun to be responsible and at the same time learn the hacks, all thanks to Young Adults Toastmasters Club, all my fellow Executive committee members and my beloved YATers for being a good support and making the role of the Treasurer less burdensome or no burden at all.
PS: If you are not a member and reading this, consider attending our meetings on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, see the fun happening, you never know you might be the next Treasurer or the President of the club.
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Come be a part of the legacy.
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EXCOM REPORTS
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SERGEANT AT ARMS
TM MUSTAFA MOHAMED Serving as Sergeant at Arms for YAT this term is a great experience! Even though it started off with virtual meetings and the role was limited, I had the opportunity to experience a few hybrid meetings which were much more challenging, I would say even more so than an entirely in-person meeting would. This has definitely strengthened my SAA abilities and it was a pleasure learning the duties and trying to get better as the term goes by. There is still much room for growth and that is a great drive to keep going forward. I would definitely recommend those who have never been in the executive committee to start with this role as it is a great introduction to the excom world.
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TREASURER
TM OSWIN FERNANDES It has always been a fun ride ever since I have taken up the role of Treasurer of the Club for the first time and being part of the excom, this has helped me understand the importance of managing the club/ life financially as the role demands. In terms of financial standing as a grace in disguise this term has been positive, accounting the fact that most of our meetings in this term has been virtual but wait that did not stop us from having some physical meetings of course with all the precaution taken and abiding by the nation covid rule. And, Thanks to our excom team for their relentless effort in scouting around and adding potential new soldiers for our club to keep the legacy of Young Adults Toastmasters, as a result there has been surplus in cash to retain the discount in membership fees to our members until the physical meetings resume normally. I consider challenges for me as a first time treasurer would be to retain members while keeping the club in good standing financially until this role is bestowed upon me and that shall be my duty. Finally I would like to give credits to all the members in YAT & all the excom members who have been there to guide me through this journey. PAGE 54
SECRETARY
TM BEENA M.C In less than a year, I got elected as the secretary of the club.This role is a huge responsibility as I was a newbie but took it as a challenge to do my best and give justice to the role given. I recorded the minutes of each regular meeting, took note of the amendments (when necessary), and checked the quorum. Over 6 months, I learnt a lot as it helped me to be an active listener, and improved my writing skills. I also had to be impromptu because I had to post the minutes accurately as soon as the meeting was over. In addition, I recorded all the necessary information discussed during executive committee meetings and read them out in the following meeting to ensure details recorded accurately and follow-up on any unfinished business. Toastmaster of the Year (TOY) Award is that recognizes members whose educational accomplishments, club service, dedication and enthusiasm are exceptional which also comes under the responsibilities of the club’s secretary. To my surprise, this year all the new club members had taken up roles. Looking forward to more points to achieve! Good job everyone! It’s an amazing experience being the secretary of YAT. I have learnt a lot and am still learning in the months to come. PAGE 55
VP PUBLIC RELATIONS
TM MARAM ALARADI This term has been great in keeping up the club’s image, socials and website. As VPPR, I strive to use the club’s photos taken from past meetings instead of random photos to make the posters more personal and special. With my experience serving as District PR Manager, I believe I am doing a great job complying with the Toastmasters branding guidelines and protecting the brand as part of our responsibilities as PR officers. Our socials are growing smoothly which is a good sign however, one of my goal is to activate our YouTube channel through podcasts, members testimonies among other things. In addition, members are constantly reminded to like, comment and share our posters on their own socials to spread the word and increase our exposure and follower base which is something I also aim to achieve throughout all our socials in order to attract guests and prospect members, helping and fulfilling our membership goals. PAGE 56
VP MEMBERSHIP
TM NAJLA HAMEED After I took up the role of VPM, life just got more exciting, I am now licensed to promote my favorite Toastmaster club (YAT) to the outside world. I would talk about toastmasters to anyone and everyone who I thought could benefit from YAT or make a difference.
The journey has been fantabulous so far, and with the support and enthusiasm of my YAT family we were awarded the Smedley award for adding five members into our club roster between the months of August - September, which was the icing on the cake. All of us at YAT voluntarily became reflexive VPMs and promoted YAT. The spirit of spreading the positive vibes and being able to influence different people from different backgrounds have been an amazing experience. We at YAT always believe in infinite possibilities and always find innovative ways to enhance ourselves and evolve along with our members. Want to find out how? Join in our next meeting. PAGE 57
VP EDUCATION
TM SARA TAHER I challenged myself and I took up the role of the VPE for this term and it has been so far quite a rollercoaster ride. It defiantly sharpened my skills at scheduling, preparing, and communicating requests. Club contest for example was one of the biggest challenges, it pushed me out of my comfort zone several times and with the help of other Excom members, thankfully it was beyond perfect (pssst. Check the results in the tables). As a VPE, I cannot be prouder of the club members who extended their achievements to area level and made YAT place in all the categories. Kudos to you on that and all the best for BTAC 2022! I shall grind harder through the struggles of the virtual meetings to achieve as much DCP points as we can. We are halfway through the year with 5.0 points, and with the help of the ambitious members, I believe another 5.0 points are not difficult to obtain. So, let’s buckle up and enjoy the remaining of the ride!
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VP EDUCATION
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CLUB PRESIDENT With January coming to a close, YAT has had fourteen meetings so far this term, and the fun continues on. Our meetings have ranged from fully online, partially in person (hybrid), and fully in person, and despite the challenges in having to switch between these based on the COVID-19 situation, our members have persevered in creating an open environment that makes learning fun. We have welcomed a lot of new members this term into TM ROD KEVIN YBARDOLAZA
our family, as a result of the efforts of the VPM in attracting new guests and supported by the VPPR’s advances in promoting the club on social media.
The club has had an amazing run this year at the contests, with our contenders from the Club level proceeding on to win at the Area level for all contests, Evaluation, Table Topics, Humorous and International speech categories. The journey is not over though, and we will support and cheer on our contestants at the Division and District levels. With a little over half the term done, we have achieved 5 out of the 10 DCP points, and we remain committed to achieving the remainder before the term is up. The seven Executive Committee meetings held to date have been productive; focusing on improving the club standards and the experience for our members.
I could not ask for a better team to help in taking the club to greater success!
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DISTRICT AWARDS
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DISTRICT AWARDS
AUGUST 2021
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DISTRICT AWARDS
SEPTEMBER 2021
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DISTRICT AWARDS
OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2021
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DISTRICT AWARDS
NOVEMBER 2021
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DISTRICT AWARDS
DECEMBER 2021
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MEETING POSTERS
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MEETING POSTERS
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MEETING NO. 270
MEETING NO. 271
MEETING NO. 272
MEETING NO. 273
MEETING NO. 274
MEETING NO. 275
MEETING POSTERS
MEETING NO. 276
MEETING NO. 277
MEETING NO. 278
MEETING NO. 279
MEETING NO. 280
MEETING NO. 281
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MEETING POSTERS
MEETING NO. 282
MEETING NO. 283
HONORABLE MENTIONS
MEETING NO. 273
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MEETING NO. 274
MEMBERS RECOGNITIONS
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MEMBERS RECOGNITIONS
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MEMBERS RECOGNITIONS
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MEMBERS RECOGNITIONS
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MEMBERS RECOGNITIONS
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YAT'S ME ROST
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EMBERS TER
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Chief Editor: TM Maram AlAradi Contributing Editor: DTM Khaled Ismaeel, TM Sara Taher, TM Mustafa Mohammed, TM Rod Ybardolaza © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED TO YOUNG ADULT TOASTMASTERS - CLUB NO. 01682476
THE VOX YOUNG ADULT TOASTMASTERS CLUB NEWSLETTER AREA 2, DIVISION C, DISTRICT 20, REGION 11 YATbh
Young Adult Toastmasters www.yatbh.org
WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE ISSUE 33 - TERM 2021-2022 - RELEASE: 31ST JANUARY 2022