Let’s make your experience more rewarding

I have had the privilege of being part of a couple of public speaking clubs. After attending my first Toastmasters meeting, I was sure there was something unusual about this organisation. To be part of any of the public speaking clubs that I had been part of, you had to be great at public speaking. We gave each other what I thought to be frank and forthright feedback. After listening to an icebreaker and other elementary speakers, I wasn’t sure if I was at the right place. I felt Toastmasters had not lived to its hype and the speeches I had seen on YouTube.

Here I am today, thanks to an enlightening after-meeting conversation I had that evening. If Toastmasters were like any of my previous public speaking clubs, what would be of those who have so much to say/contribute to this world but, lack the confidence to do so? I came to Toastmasters to get an opportunity to participate in the International Speech Contest but, that night, when I signed my membership form, I signed up to make a contribution to those of you that have so much to contribute to this world but lack the confidence to do so.

I still hope to participate in the International Speech Contest but, for now my focus is to support you in finding your voice so that you can make a positive difference in this world. Of course, there is something unusual about this organisation, Toastmasters. The empowering opportunities and feedback we offer in Toastmasters are making a positive difference to this world. And this is what this year is all about, celebrating the positive impact we are making in our community – in the process re-writing the course of African history hence the hashtag #PeopleMakingHistory. We will also be celebrating our pride in being a part of this wonderful community hence the hashtag #ProudToastmasters.

I would like to invite you to share with your interests with your leadership team your Member Interest Survey. I would also like to invite you to share feedback on the opportunities you’d like to be afforded to make your Toastmasters experience more rewarding. Feel free to share your feedback at https://goo.gl/forms/MKCNtpw5LCbHQvbj1. I look forward to engaging with you and to supporting you in achieving your personal and professional goals through Toastmasters.