Florida Toastmasters hosts a successful speech contest
A lot of good memories were made
The loud bang of the gavel on the lectern declared the Florida Toastmasters Club’s annual speech contest open, with all the contestants ready and eager to show off their speaking skills.
Vivien Katzav, the Club’s president, extended a hearty welcome to all members, guests and visitors, before Kay Glansbeek proposed the toast to Toastmasters International. This was followed by the Toast of the Evening – New Beginnings – which was proposed by Kevin Loader.
Gail Hemming ensured that everyone was kept informed about exactly how a speech contest works, by sharing some of the advantages of participating in such a contest.
The business session, which was the last of the evening’s formalities, was kept brief and concise.
This was followed by the Educational Session, where Dick Hallett explained that a leadership role in any organisation required a high level of commitment. Members were encouraged to seize opportunities to serve as club officers, where they can assist in the development of their administrative and leadership skills in a positive and supportive environment.
The prepared speeches kept the audience on the edges of their seats as the speakers ensured their topics, which ranged from workplace bullying, and taming an African Pygmy hedgehog, to how to reduce stress in your life and gain good judgement from the mistakes you make in life, were well researched and delivered expertly.
After a short break, the Table Topics Master for the evening, Kevin Loader,was introduced and the impromptu speech session of the evening was based on quotes from famous people which encouraged everyone to overcome the fear of public speaking.
The topics included focusing on results rather than roadblocks; how to recognise the door of opportunity; accepting the challenge to overcome your worst fear; not allowing fear to stand in the way of a great opportunity, and not fearing your fears.
The evening was enjoyed by all and everyone left with a sense of accomplishment as they had taken the leap and competed.
The winners for the evening were Karen Gray (Best Evaluation); William Kelly (Best Prepared Speech); and Ntombi Phaledi and Lanie Roos (sharing the award for Best Impromptu Speech).
For more information about club meetings, contact Vivien on 082 600 8428 or send an email to vivien@katzavconsulting.co.za.
Alternatively, contact Dawn on 082 330 9213 or 063 736 0282, or send an email to gaildawnh@gmail.com.
