The West Rand Toastmasters Club’s recent meeting was filled with fun, laughter, and a lot of talking, as they explored their theme for the night – attention.
The theme was introduced by Toastmaster Alwyn van Wyngaarden, who encouraged the audience to speak about their experiences in gaining attention. During his explanation, he tried to give everybody a better understanding of why we all strive for attention.
Before the speeches started, everyone was welcomed by the Club President, Esther Dreyer, who made a point to extend a special welcome to the three visitors for the evening.
Four speeches followed, which had the audience captivated.
Lynette Harris encouraged everyone to overcome their fears and anxieties with her educational speech, which was entitled, Controlling Your Fears. She also performed an interpretive reading of Eve’s Diary, which was written by Mark Twain.
Stephanie Watkins had everyone in stitches with her interpretive reading of Mrs Gilhooley’s Bungaloo, which she did in an almost perfect Irish accent – despite all the laughter.
Johannes Gribb kept the audience entertained when he recalled his 21st birthday party, which ended up with a drinking game. He concluded by saying, “Hopefully this was my first – and last – experience of a babbelas!”
The topics for the impromptu speeches all centred on Women’s Month, and the Table Topic Mistress, Jessica Gribb, called on everyone to speak about well known and strong women.
The winners for the evening were as follows:
• Stephanie Watkins was awarded the trophy for the Best Speech
• Malcolm Harris won the trophy for the Best Evaluator
• Yogan Naicker won the trophy for Table Topics
• Alwyn van Wyngaarden won the trophy for the Best Contributor
“At West Rand Toastmasters, which was started over twenty years ago, our mission is to 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,” said Glen Campbell, the Vice-president: Public Relations.
For more information about the club, contact Glen on 073 538 9560 or send an email to glencampbell@telkomsa.net.
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