Save the date: The District 91 Conference

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Save the date:  The District 91 Conference 12-13-14th May – Inspiring futures   If you have not guessed it, we are excited to announce that this year’s District 91 Conference will be having its Saturday’s events at the Barbican. The Barbican Centre is a renowned performing arts centre in the City of London. It has Grade … Read more

Club Growth Newsletter – February 2023

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Renewals

The renewals window is open. As some clubs experienced delays in their renewals, I encourage you to submit them early. As further incentivisation, there will be an early payment award of £50 for the first 30 clubs that submit their renewals with a minimum of 20 members by the end of February.

If you have already submitted your membership renewals, thank you for investing in your personal growth. If you haven’t already done so, it isn’t too late!

Talk Up Toastmasters

February 1 – March 31 2023

The Talk Up Toastmasters membership programme gives members the chance to invite guests to a special meeting where prospective members can learn about Toastmasters’ many benefits. Add 5 new, dual or reinstated members with a join date between February 1 and March 31, and you’ll receive a special Talk Up Toastmasters ribbon to display on your club’s banner.

Special events might include members bringing a friend, inviting former members, hosting an ‘Open House’ meeting, or speechcraft workshop.

A guide to all incentives is here: https://d91toastmasters.org.uk/members/resources/incentives/

Open House Meetings

An Open House Meeting is a fun meeting to publicise Toastmasters to members of the public, friends, family or work colleagues. They are very similar to a normal club meeting, but feel more like a demonstration of the benefits of Toastmasters while providing a taste of what a regular meeting is like. Some roles will be carried out a little differently, and the agenda will be planned to give guests the opportunity to actively participate. Organising an open-house meeting can be done either by the club’s committee or an ad-hoc organising team – perhaps you have a member that would like to complete a Pathway Project, for example.

The key to a great Open House meeting is teamwork, and getting all club members on board to ensure it is a success. As a great example of an Open House recently, please see the write up of the City of London event on 17th January in the link below

Welcoming the World to Toastmasters

 

Debbie’s Top Tips

  • Do you remember your first Toastmasters meeting and why you joined? Share your testimony with your club members and guests. Do this at regular club meetings in addition to special events. You might inspire someone to achieve something that they never thought was possible, including potential future leaders!
  • Do you inform guests and new members about all the exciting training opportunities available to them? Did you know that new and existing members can attend club officer training and other District webinars? Please share, so everyone can benefit.
  • When was the last time that you invited an external Toastmaster to your club as a General Evaluator? Sometimes we can get too comfortable in our clubs, and it’s always helpful to see how we’re doing by bringing in fresh eyes. We grow from evaluations, and external evaluators provide an opportunity to learn about what your club is doing well and receive suggestions on how you might improve

Here’s a reminder of the Toastmasters’ Promises

As a member of Toastmasters International and my club, I promise  

  • To attend club meetings regularly
  • To prepare all of my projects to the best of my ability, basing them on the Toastmasters education program
  • To prepare for and fulfil meeting assignments
  • To provide fellow members with helpful, constructive evaluations
  • To help the club maintain the positive, friendly environment necessary for all members to learn and grow
  • To serve my club as an officer when called upon to do so
  • To treat my fellow club members and our guests with respect and courtesy
  • To bring guests to club meetings so they can see the benefits Toastmasters membership offers
  • To adhere to the guidelines and rules for all Toastmasters education and recognition programs
  • To act within Toastmasters’ core values of integrity, respect, service and excellence during the conduct of all Toastmasters’ activities

And if you want a refresher on how to integrate the Promises into your Toastmasters life, then join us on Friday 17th February for a LinkedIn Live event all about the promises brought to you by D91 Toastmasters.

You can sign up here: https://www.linkedin.com/video/event/urn:li:ugcPost:7028417454993219584/

Debbie Williams
Club Growth Director, 2022-2023

Celebrating our Distinguished Toastmasters in D91!

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Every year we honour those Toastmasters who have achieved The Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award. 

This award represents the highest level of educational achievement in Toastmasters. It is a tough but extremely rewarding qualification that shows a Toastmasters has reached the pinnacle of leadership and overcome several leadership and communication challenges. To earn the DTM, a member is required to deliver over 30 speeches, or two pathways, and serve a one-year term as a district officer, serve as a club sponsor, mentor or coach and participate in the preparation of a club success plan.

This is no easy award to achieve! Being a DTM represents the superior level of achievement in both communication and leadership a member has contributed to Toastmasters and their own learning. As PR Manager I was honoured to catch up with these illustrious individuals to quiz them on their achievement. 

I asked all the DTMs the same questions:

1. What is your name, home club and path(s) you are working on?
2. How do you feel about achieving so much?
3. What is your secret to be able to achieve this accolade?
4. Why would you recommend this to someone?
5. What is your next challenge?
 
These are their reponses
 

Rose Nakibirango, London Public Speakers

  1. What is your name, home club and path(s) you are working on?

My name is Rose Nakibirango.

My home club is London Public Speakers

I am currently doing the Engaging Humour path but the humour still eludes me.

  1. How do you feel about achieving so much?

I am so grateful for the many Toastmasters who have made it possible for me to complete this award.

I would like to thank current and past members of London Public Speakers who have supported me in the last 3 years – from evaluating speeches to joining me in demanding projects such as Speechcraft.

A big thank you to the many Toastmasters from other clubs and Districts who were generous with their time and expertise to get me through the range of activities of this award.

  1. What is your secret to be able to achieve this accolade?

Planning when and how I was going to fulfil the different requirements and actively seeking out relevant projects. I had the benefit of an experienced and supportive Toastmaster as my mentor throughout my DTM journey. I highly recommend a mentor for any Toastmaster embarking on a DTM award.

  1. Why would you recommend this to someone?

Without a doubt. It’s not so much the award at the end but the person you become along the way.

  1. What is your next challenge?

My second DTM. I am working towards it. I am excited about meeting new people and learning from them. I know it won’t be the same as the first one – the requirements may be similar but the experience will be different.

Jean Gamester, Cardiff Toastmasters

  1. What is your name, home club and path(s) you are working on?

 Jean Gamester, Cardiff Toastmasters.  Visionary Communication and Motivational Strategies

  1. How do you feel about achieving so much?

My first DTM was in the old system, and for a long while I just did the old CC manual over and over.  I liked that well enough, but I’m really glad I engaged with Pathways, I’ve enjoyed the learning and how the different speeches and activities flowed.  It gave me a new challenge and a longer stretch with more variety.  I’ve also appreciated having done speeches and projects that others do when I am evaluating too, it helps me connect more with what they are trying to achieve. 

  1. What is your secret to be able to achieve this accolade?

For me the secret was planning – knowing which projects I was going to do when and getting them booked in with the support of lovely VPEs. There are people out there who have developed different ways of keeping track of their paths.  I particularly like the ones I found from District 38 – I use the spreadsheets they have there to track my paths.  I have a sheet for the two paths I have completed already and the two I am working on now.

  1. Why would you recommend this to someone?

Learning in Toastmasters is through a constant practice of giving and receiving over time. When we work through the paths and stretch ourselves to take on different speeches and activities, especially the ones that are outside our comfort zone, or are a bit different to what we would normally do, we learn more.  When we support others in their paths building on our experience of doing that work ourselves we develop even further.  This is how we develop such brilliant speakers and leaders.

  1. What is your next challenge?

I would like to complete the next DTM before I finish my term as International Director in August 2024 – I think visionary communication and motivational strategies seem like just the right paths to help me grow in the role too 😊

RAMESH HALAI, TJXpressions

  1. What is your name, home club and path(s) you are working on?

Ramesh Halai, TJXpressions, Presentation Mastery , Engaging Humour

 

  1. How do you feel about achieving so much?

I feel great, Never wanted to become a DTM, wasn’t in my list of things to do;
it wasn’t something I was chasing, so it felt great when it dawned on me that I only had one or two  more boxes I needed signing off before I gain this certification.
It was then a no brainier for me

 

  1. What is your secret to be able to achieve this accolade?

Just say ‘YES’. You will find out you will end up checking those boxes without even realising it; more importantly you will have earned the Badge because you earned it by doing, everyone else around you would have noticed that you are a more confident speaker

  1. Why would you recommend this to someone?

I say don’t do it to get the award, do the things that give you value;
To be more confidence; 
To be able to speak clearly in front of any number of people;
This in return will give the award; it may not be quick but you didn’t sign up to get this award did you?

  1. What is your next challenge?

Good question, I have the confidence to do pretty much anything I want to do; 
Whether it be travel in a hot air balloon over turkey or traveling to see the 7 wonders of the world; or something completely different
The honest answer is I haven’t decided yet; to get to the answer I will first document, prioritise and prune my to-do list, which is probably >100 in size. 
Then start working down the list and re-prioritising I as go along.

LUCINDA HARMAN, Shilling Speakers

  1. What is your name, home club and path(s) you are working on?

Lucinda Harman, Shilling Speakers

Completed 4 paths and 2 x DTMs

  1. How do you feel about achieving so much?

I don’t consider it so much. I believe in creating new goals and always raising the bar. 

  1. What is your secret to be able to achieve this accolade?

 It takes discipline, commitment and a lot of time investment not only in your own speeches, projects yet also giving back in leadership. A heart and soul for servant leadership and willingness to find the winning team formula. To be humble and agile in your approach to leadership and all that goes towards a DTM award.

  1. Why would you recommend this to someone?

It is an all rounder award requiring you to speak, charter clubs, mentor, lead, train and thus a very good training ground. These skills if transferred effectively can set you up professionally on a very good footing.

  1. What is your next challenge?

My focus has moved to corporate training and speaking. Definitely the TED stage and a lot more international appearances. This is probably my biggest unanswered question inside Toastmasters. 

And well done to my fellow DTM awardees.

Regards Lucinda

So, D91 Member, we hope this gives you a sense of the massive achievement DTM represents. To find out more about the Distinguished Toastmasters qualification: https://www.toastmasters.org/education/distinguished-toastmaster

Chris Arning,

D9 PR Manager, 2022-2023

Welcoming the World to Toastmasters

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By Tina Plamadeala

City of London, Open House, 17th January 2023

The City of London Toastmasters held a successful Open House event on the 17th of January, which drew over 150 attendees who were interested in improving their public speaking and leadership skills. The event was organized by a dedicated team of Toastmasters members and the committee, who worked tirelessly to ensure its success. The speakers at the event demonstrated a clear commitment to their personal development, each bringing their unique style and perspective to the event, making for an engaging and diverse line-up. For a flavour of the venue and the great atmosphere and vibrancy of the event we have made a take away video which you can view here:

What Made the Open House a Success?

Teamwork

The success of the Open House can be attributed to the collaboration and teamwork between club members and the committee. By working together, the team was able to ensure that the event ran smoothly and effectively achieved its goals of attracting new members and promoting the club.

The team was composed of members with diverse skill sets, such as marketing and promotion, event planning, organisation, and public speaking. Having a positive and supportive team dynamic, where members encouraged and supported each other, shared ideas and skills, and worked together to overcome challenges, helped build a strong and cohesive team.

Effective Communication

Communication was key to the success of the Open House. Effective communication within the team helped ensure everyone was on the same page and that tasks were completed efficiently. Clear and concise communication in promoting the event on social media (including this eye catching graphic) helped attract more guests. Effective communication also created a welcoming atmosphere, providing attendees with information and guiding them as needed.

Execution

The execution of the Open House was critical to its success. From setting up the venue to welcoming guests and promoting the club, careful planning and attention to detail were necessary for a successful execution.

Free Pizza!

Providing refreshments and creating a comfortable and engaging environment also contributed to a positive experience for attendees.

Converting Guests to join us…

What we try to impress on Guest attendees is that a Toastmasters club in your local area has so many benefits, a few of which include:

  1. Improved Public Speaking Skills: Joining Toastmasters community provides the opportunity to improve public speaking skills in a supportive and encouraging environment. Members can practice speaking in front of a group, receive constructive feedback, and build confidence in their speaking abilities.
  2. Personal and Professional Growth: Toastmasters not only helps improve public speaking skills, but also provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. Members can develop their leadership abilities, enhance their communication skills, and improve their listening and feedback skills, leading to increased confidence and opportunities for growth and advancement.
  3. Sense of Community: Being a part of a Toastmasters community provides a sense of belonging and a supportive network of individuals who share a common goal of improving communication and leadership skills. Members are encouraged to support and encourage one another, fostering a positive and uplifting atmosphere.

At City of London Toastmasters we strive to create a safe and supportive place for personal and professional growth. The Open House gives us the perfect opportunity to demonstrate that and to invite Guests to come back and eventually to join us and be part of a community dedicated to improving communication and leadership skills. We hope that the success of our Open House inspires other Clubs to organise similar events to welcome potential Members in their area.

If you’re already a Toastmaster but in London want to join us here’s our Club website : https://cityoflondontoastmasters.org/faq/

Tina Plamadeala, VPPR, City of London Toastmasters

If you want to find out more about how Tina promotes her Club then you can check out this interview with D91 PR Manager, Chris Arning.

The Laughing Toastmaster: All You Need is LIKES. Love in the Age of Social Media

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Love in the Age of Social Media

When my boyfriend asked me what I wanted for Valentine’s Day I didn’t hesitate, ‘Can you get all your office colleagues to LIKE my page’?

Yes Toastmasters, it has come to this, I don’t want to be loved, I want to be LIKED. Boyfriend can send cards and flowers, but that won’t make me feels as loved as 50 new LIKES. As the Beatles’ song would say now, ‘LIKE, LIKE me do’.

This isn’t me talking. Experts say social media is changing our concept of love and in the future our self-worth will be measured by the number LIKES, FOLLOWS, FRIENDED and LITTLEHEARTS we get. Guess I’m just ahead of the times! With 7.63 billion people in the world, the opportunities are endless!

Of course, many people moan and say it’s the end of romance and that getting an e-card is like drinking decaf coffee, you don’t feel anything and it’s sad. Millennials on the other hand will cry, ‘You want a PAPER card?’ and accuse you of personally destroying the Amazon, the forests, the eco-system, the planet, the universe, the future, their livelihood, the-possibility-of-ever-buying-a-home-I-resent-you … you old fogey.

Being an old fogey myself (defined as someone who still uses Facebook), I admit it’s difficult for these youngsters-doomed-to-live-with-mum-for-the-rest-of-their-lives…to comprehend what went on in ‘fogey times’.

  • When ‘strong or weak’ did not refer to passwords, but traits of your future husband.
  • A hashtag (#) was the first step to playing Ticktacktoe, not a way to communicate with as little effort as possible. #IluvU
  • Click-through Rate (CTR) was how many times your husband changed channels on the TV remote control and Conversion Rate (CR) was strictly for religions.
  • If you FOLLOWED someone it was stalking and GOING VIRAL was a pandemic waiting to happen.
  • Lastly, a HANDLE was attached to a door and PLATFORMS were reserved for 1970 shoes.

Please understand, I’m not against social media, on the contrary! I believe it comes with love-enhancing opportunities that us ‘old fogeys’ would have relished!

Let’s start with dating. Remember those blind dates your well-meaning friends hooked you up with? The date would turn up with the personality of an amoeba and more dandruff than a tax inspector? Then it turned out he WAS a tax inspector? Now you can google them to death and then check Tinder, Grinder and REMINDER to swipe them left. Forever.

Equally reassuring are ‘dinner dates’ which today consist of sharing pics of your Deliveroo while texting ‘Yummy’. What a relief not to worry about stupid chit chat or having to drown your burps while eating that enchilada.

Remember those love letters people wrote? (Ok, I wrote). So long and convoluted they made War and Peace look like a Tweet? Such a waste of time! I never got any action anyway. Nowadays just send an inappropriate pic of yourself and you’re in!

Then there’s the ‘Wedding Scene’. Gone are the days when you picked the bridesmaids because they were your friends. Now you choose them because they’re photogenic. No budget for your wedding? No worries! Get married in front of a green screen background and post a Bahamas wedding! Because what’s important are not the vows, but … you guessed it, the LIKES. Never mind your honeymoon includes sending round-the-clock pics to your 801,702 followers, because if you don’t post, it’s like it never happened. Today Descartes would claim, ‘I POST, therefore I am’.

Now you’re married and it’s all about ‘puppy love’. Not that pimply, prepubescent love of yesteryear. Today it’s about your puppy in a Cupid Costume with hubby and you in the background kissing. #AdorablyCute. A billion LIKES!

Finally, its break-up time, better known as #HateUDivorceU. Millennials have it so easy! No more awkward moments when friends you had as a couple have to pick sides and say things like, ‘Let’s stay in touch!’ and never talk to you again. Social Media allows you to take the initiative and DEFRIEND, DELETE, DEFOLLOW, DE-LINK, DEHANDLE, DECLINE. #NeverLikedYouAnyway

What a LIKE-able time to live!

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to target the 7.63 billion people in the world, starting with the 280,000 Toastmasters in 144 countries who I’m hoping will LIKE, FOLLOW, FRIEND and LITTLEHEART me back.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Sonia Aste is an engineer, writer and comedian. She’s a Toastmaster and member at Riverside Communicators Club.
More from Sonia on her website, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram