West Rand Toastmasters cover knowledge at meeting 474

The West Rand Toastmasters learnt to swim in a knowledge tsunami during their 474th meeting on 7 November. The interesting and informative meeting coincided with the club’s open house, where they welcomed six new guests.

The Knowledge Tsunami themed meeting was suitably named. It was proven as the Toastmaster of the Evening, Michael Glencross, shared some intimidating facts about how quickly knowledge doubles. When the estimations first started, knowledge was estimated to double every 1 500 years (up to 1500 AD); in 1750 AD, after 250 years, it doubled again and then again after 150 years. By the year 2000, knowledge was estimated to be doubling every two years, and now the rate is down to every 12 hours.

In his scary speech, Michael noted that today’s university students will have degrees in outdated knowledge by the time they graduate. This is mainly due to the addition of more information to the internet every day and studies constantly being updated.

The club’s Sergeant at Arms, Jeffrey Nkhwazi, called the meeting to order before passing the gavel to their president, Lynette Harris. After Jacqui Motaung had read the minutes of the previous meeting and the guests were welcomed by Vice President, Thato Majela, control was given to Michael who introduced the evening’s role players.

The Jokemaster for the evening, Ines Liel, did not disappoint with her two hilarious jokes on cheeky parrots and frog princesses instead of princes. Her jokes were followed by the prepared speeches which included Lynette Harris talking about the development of shoes from medieval times to now, Jacqui teaching the Toastmasters more about communication styles, and Thato helping the club understand more about his life. Ultimately, Jacqui took home the prize for Best Prepared Speech at the end of the evening.

Alwyn van Wyngaarden chaired the Table Topics for the evening which, apart from Michael’s interesting facts, were the most enjoyable part of the evening. After presenting the speakers with their topics, which included various objects such as a grandfather clock, a La–Z–Boy chair, a high chair, a steel cabinet, a safe, and an air conditioner. After the evaluations, George Hensley (one of the guests) took home the Best Impromptu Speech/ Table Topics trophy for his speech on high chairs for babies.

The Vice President of Public Relations for the club, Glen Campbell, gave the General Evaluation for the meeting while the members voted for the winners.

Apart from George and Jacqui, the other winners for the evening were Michael Glencross for Best Contributor, and Malcolm Harris for Best Evaluator.

After 20 years Toastmasters is still going strong and they welcome new guests with open arms. The next meeting will be held on 5 December at Del Forno in Florida Centre.

For more information, contact Glen Campbell on 073 538 9560 or email glencampbell@telkomsa.net.