Legacy in Action
Feeling incredibly energised and inspired after organising Division D’s inaugural Education Session, “Legacy in Action,” as Division D Director. in collaboration with the District 127 Programm Quality team, including District Director DTM Sujil, PQD DTM Shakeel Anwar Chaudhary, and CGD DTM Sowmya Shetty. This impactful event was the first session in the series Building Leaders Across Boarders Q: TM Nant A KalainAs a newly joined Toastmaster, what leadership lesson have you learned at the international level that you wish every new Toastmaster knew from day one? A: DTM Mohammad MuradThat’s a profound question. Leadership in Toastmasters evolves at every level—from club to area, division, district, and ultimately, the international level. What I’ve learned is that with each step up, the perspective widens and the responsibility deepens. At the international level, especially during my time as International President, I realized I wasn’t just making decisions for a single district—I was influencing the entire global community of Toastmasters. Even small policy decisions can impact thousands, even millions, over the years. The key lesson? Don’t treat leadership as limited to your term. Build a solid foundation that outlasts you. Think long-term. Leadership is about continuing a legacy, honoring what others built before you, and paving the path for those who come after. Q: TM Mohammed Siddiq KhanWhen did you first realize that Toastmasters was truly changing you, and how long did it take to see that shift? A: DTM Deepa SurendranThat’s a tricky question—it’s hard to pinpoint a single moment. But I believe the transformation began right from my first Table Topics attempt. When fellow members stood and appreciated that impromptu speech, I felt recognized. Soon after, I stepped into the role of Vice President Membership just three months into joining. It was my first major growth experience—I learned how to follow up, close a sale, and earned a reputation as a go-getter. I still remember following up with a guest for three years—by the time she joined, I had already become the Club President. Another turning point was serving as Vice President of Public Relations (VPPR) in six different clubs. I mastered tools like PowerPoint, Canva, and Excel. These skills proved invaluable during my time as a District PR Manager and Club Growth Director—and even in my professional life. Toastmasters also helped me grow as a person. I used to be very direct, which came across as arrogant. I learned to be kinder, more polite—especially important when leading large teams. Over many months of participating regularly, delivering speeches, organizing events, and embracing feedback, I noticed a major boost in confidence and spontaneity. I conducted interviews with international leaders, organized large-scale events, and gave keynote speeches. More than just public speaking, Toastmasters gave me leadership abilities—how to delegate, resolve conflicts, and connect across cultures. Those experiences deeply shaped my personal and professional growth. Q: TM Betsy RajWhat was the feeling when you gave your first speech—the Icebreaker? How did you feel, and what did you learn from it? A: DTM Balaji NagabhushanAh, that takes me back to October 1998. Back then, we didn’t have online resources—only our mentors. Mine scheduled my Icebreaker two months in advance and asked me to rehearse it three times: in a park, in front of a mirror, and at home. Writing the speech itself was the hardest part—how do you condense 34 years of life into 6 minutes? My first rehearsal went over 8 minutes and earned a scolding. The second one was 7 minutes—still too long. I had to cut content I loved, then reshuffle it to meet the time limit. When I finally delivered the Icebreaker, it was 6 minutes and 10 seconds—within time. What stuck with me most was the warmth. Everyone clapped. The evaluator told me he wouldn’t give any suggestions because it was my first speech—just encouragement. I realized then that Toastmasters is a family that lifts you up. And the biggest lesson? Learning to prioritize what truly matters when speaking to an audience. Q: TM Haris Khan:“Was there a powerful moment when mentoring someone else taught you something unexpected about yourself?” A: DTM Sunil Kottarathil:Over the past year, I had the privilege of mentoring five district directors from different backgrounds, with different strengths and leadership styles. They all came seeking guidance on how to be successful in their terms, how to become distinguished. What I realized early was this: our conversations about their goals became a mirror into my own values, beliefs and purpose. I could reflect on my own journey as district director and mentor. But this didn’t start last year. Earlier, I guided District 127 to become world number one – many of you were part of that journey with Deepa as district director. We proved visionary leadership can make dreams come true despite challenges. Even before that, I mentored Sujit Sugumaran through his journey to Regional Advisor and International Director. That multi-year mentorship showed me how nurturing leadership creates deep impact. Here’s what surprised me: each mentoring experience was different. A single approach doesn’t fit all cases. But in every instance, the most powerful realization was this – the greatest joy doesn’t come from your own success, but from helping others achieve theirs. This was a complete shift from when I first joined Toastmasters, focused on public speaking and recognition. Mentoring revealed servant leadership to me – that my role isn’t to show the way, but walk alongside those I mentor. To listen more than speak. To unlock potential already within others. When the districts I mentored achieved Distinguished status or became number one, like Deepa’s team, those were beautiful moments. But the biggest advantage? I grew the most. I became more patient, more empathetic, more grounded. Mentoring taught me leadership isn’t about the spotlight, but lighting the way for others. It didn’t just teach me how to support others – it showed me who I am when no one is watching. That’s the most unexpected gift. I thank Toastmasters for this opportunity. This journey continues, and I
Behind the Scenes: What Happens in a Typical Toastmasters Meeting?
Ever wondered what actually happens during a Toastmasters meeting? Let’s take you behind the scenes. A typical meeting starts with a warm welcome from the Sergeant at Arms, followed by the Toastmaster of the Day who acts as the meeting host. The agenda includes: Other meeting roles include Timer, Ah-Counter, and Grammarian, each contributing to personal development. Toastmasters meetings are structured, yet informal and friendly. It’s a safe space to practice, learn, and grow.
Top 5 Skills You’ll Develop as a Toastmaster (Beyond Public Speaking)
Many people join Toastmasters to improve their public speaking, but they soon discover it’s much more than that. Here are five valuable skills you’ll develop as a Toastmaster: Leadership: By taking on meeting roles, organizing events, and mentoring others. Active Listening: Evaluating speeches teaches you to listen attentively and provide constructive feedback. Time Management: Toastmasters meetings are structured and time-bound, fostering respect for deadlines. Quick Thinking: Table Topics (impromptu speaking) sharpens your ability to think on your feet. Confidence Building: Consistent practice and positive reinforcement naturally boost your self-assurance. Toastmasters equips you with soft skills that are vital for career advancement and personal growth.
Overcoming Stage Fright: My First Toastmasters Speech Experience
Public speaking was my biggest fear—until I joined Toastmasters. Like many newcomers, my heart would race at the thought of standing in front of an audience. But my journey took a turning point with the very first Toastmasters project: The Icebreaker Speech. Walking up to the lectern, I felt nervous, but the supportive atmosphere in the room was unlike anything I had experienced. Fellow members smiled and nodded, encouraging me to share my story. Toastmasters isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. That day, I realized that stage fright diminishes when you’re surrounded by a positive community that genuinely wants you to succeed. If you’re afraid of public speaking, Toastmasters is the perfect place to face that fear, one speech at a time.